our history

OUR HISTORY

In 1917, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Warren planted a seed: a humble, at-home Bible study. Fast forward 100 years, and that kernel of faith has grown to become the internationally renowned First Baptist Church of Glenarden International. FBCG now encompasses thousands of members, several buildings and more than 100 ministries. Here’s the story:

An old black-and-white photo of a small stone church with a front porch, steps leading up to the entrance, a small window, trees around it, and a tower with a cross on top.

1920’s

When the Warrens’ house became too small, the Bible study group constructed a small building on donated land. Receiving its name from the Baptist Ministers Conference in the early 1920s, FBCG grew into its first edifice at 3311 Brightseat Road.

A group of students and teachers posing outside a church building, black and white photo.

1930’s - 1940’s

Organized to serve the flourishing middle-class community, the small church became a staple in Glenarden, which in 1939 became Maryland’s third predominantly black incorporated town. Isaac Patterson was FBCG’s first pastor, followed by Louis Hall, S.A. Davenport, Ralph Johnson Sr. and Thomas Houston. These men paved the way and led the church during its first 30 years.

Group of formally dressed men and women standing outside a building with a wooden exterior, some wearing glasses, in a setting with trees and lampposts.

1950’s - 1960’s

In 1956, Reverend Dr. John W. Johnson became pastor and served for 33 years. His humble nature and passion for the Word drew parishioners. By 1959, the church had 73 members and was growing. During the Civil and Women’s Rights movements, he took steps to bring equality to the church by licensing young ministers and certifying women evangelists, equipping those under his tutelage “to prepare for the souls yet to come.”

A modern house with a steep, asymmetrical roof, large windows, and a small front porch.

1970’s - 1980’s

With a growing congregation, FBCG’s small facility was condemned in the early 1970s, leading to a groundbreaking on Sept. 14, 1971. The new church could accommodate 200-250 people and it opened Dec. 10, 1972. FBCG quickly paid off its mortgage, offering financial aid to college students and becoming a strong resource in the community. Shortly after the mortgage burning, the Lord called Reverend Johnson home, leading FBCG to its seventh pastor, Reverend John K. Jenkins Sr.

A group of people gathered in front of a sign that reads "Future Home of First Baptist Church of Glenarden." A man is standing on a ladder in front of the sign, and some people are looking up at him.

1990’s - 2000’s

Pastor Jenkins’ first Sunday sermon was in December 1988 and he was installed Jan. 14, 1990. Membership grew from 500 to thousands. FBCG purchased an old Hechinger building on 13 acres that became the 105,000-square-foot Ministry Center. Also, in 1996, FBCG founded SHABACH! Ministries, Inc., its community service arm. In 2007, FBCG moved to the Worship Center, a 205-square-foot facility on 160 acres. Both the Ministry and Worship centers have 44 classrooms each.

Modern church with a tall steeple and cross, large glass windows, and a surrounding landscaped area under a clear blue sky.

2000’s - Present

First Baptist adds a 53,000-square-foot Empowerment Center and a 63,000-square-foot Family Life Center. Worship services and special events are viewed online in more than 20 countries. With dozens of classes through its Bible Institutes, ministry programs and a partnership with Denver Seminary, FBCG provides spiritual growth and develops “dynamic disciples.” May the Lord continue to favor this house as we move forward in His glory!