“Founded in 1850 as the First Baptist Church of St Anthony, the University Baptist Church has evolved through name changes and relocations to become the welcoming community we see today. Originally situated at University and Second Avenues, the church served various denominations. In 1858 its timber was repurposed for an African American congregation’s church in St. Paul.
Before 1870 baptisms occurred in the Mississippi River. The University Baptist Church held services at Main Street and Fourth Avenue. After St. Anthony joined Minneapolis, the church became Olivet Baptist Church in 1879.
In 1921 Olivet Baptist Church adopted the name University Baptist Church. Construction of the current building began the same year. The University Baptist Church building now has a 250-seat sanctuary. It also contains a Dobson tracker pipe organ and a gym. The building offers numerous offices and classrooms. The building is almost fully handicap accessible due to renovations.
The University Baptist Church has been led by many pastors. Some served longer terms. G C Fetter served from 1929 to 1946. John Bone followed from 1947 to 1959. Lee Freeman was there from 1976 to 1990. Since March 2001, Rev Douglas M Donley has been the pastor.
Throughout its history the University Baptist Church has embraced progressive theology. It has shown commitment to peace and justice. Early members championed abolition and women’s suffrage. Kenneth Huyck, a pastor, marched for civil rights in Selma, Alabama, during the 1960s.
Like many inner-city churches the University Baptist Church faced challenges in membership. It also struggled with resources. The University Baptist Church explored collaborations with other churches. David Bartlett expanded the church’s outreach to the University of Minnesota.
The University Baptist Church has fostered a strong music program. It introduced a new pipe organ. The church created an inclusive language hymnal. The congregation begins the Lord’s Prayer, “Our Father, Mother.” Rev Dr Nadean Bishop was the first woman and open lesbian pastor. She served from 1992 to 2000. The University Baptist Church developed outreach programs for the needy during this time. The church became a welcoming and affirming congregation.
The University Baptist Church building hosts several nonprofit organizations. Recent renovations improved handicap accessibility. The Rev Douglas M Donley has served as pastor since 2001. Located in southeast Minneapolis, the University Baptist Church benefits from diverse membership. It has many opportunities to serve its neighbors.
The University Baptist Church offers various adult education programs. These include forums and Bible studies. Weekday studies cover diverse themes. Recent topics included “Beyond Belief” and “Is Religion Killing Us?”
In recent years, the University Baptist Church has undertaken several building projects. In 2003-2004, a capital campaign funded an elevator. This improved handicap accessibility. It also replaced windows. The campaign provided roof repairs and electrical upgrades.
The University Baptist Church has a rich history of adapting to changing times. It continues to serve as a beacon of faith, inclusion and social justice in the heart of Minneapolis.”