The Beautiful Story of the Church
In 1893, Rev. Benjamin Groves and nine other persons organized the Mt. Tabor Baptist Church.  A Sunday School was immediately organized with James Wiley as the first Superintendent. A Mission Circle was organized soon after that, and Lenora Graves Wiley was elected the first president. The membership worshiped in a brush arbor for five months. The congregation outgrew this location and moved into a “shotgun” house on 17th & Valmar for seven years. Rev. John Hammonds was called in 1897 and served two years. He was followed by Rev. Hancock in 1899, who served five months. He resigned, and Rev. Nelson was called in 1900. The property was purchased at 17th & Cedar, and worship was held in a tower for the first time. Rev. Hill was 20 Elected in 1905 and served until 1906, when Rev. G.W. Sanders became Pastor for 18 years. The late Deacon Charlie Pelton purchased property at 18th & Oak Streets and sold it to the church. In 1913, a larger church was built for $1,500, and the name was changed to First Baptist Church Highland Park. After the death of Pastor Sanders, Rev. Goodman was called in 1926. In 1927, Rev. Fred T. Guy became Pastor. He organized clubs and established a building fund. He resigned after four years and was followed in 1931 by Rev. Kennedy, whose tenure was short.

Rev. Theo Rowland served for two years, and a Junior Church was organized, and Vacation Bible School was held. We were the first Black Baptists in the state to have such a school. In May 1935, Rev. B. L. Marchant was called. A new church was erected, and provisions were made for a religious education program. He was followed by Rev. P. L. Rowe, who served for 16 years. Rev. James S. Allen was called in March 1960. During his 11 years, property was purchased, a budgeting program started, and the church grew spiritually and financially substantially.

Dr. Willis W. Walker, Jr., answered our call for a leader in 1972. During his 52 years, we continued to grow spiritually, physically, and financially. Ground for a new edifice was broken in July 1979, and on October 12, 1980, the doors opened with a seating capacity that grew from 200 to about 1000. Additional property was purchased, increasing from two city lots to two city blocks. Many new ministries were started, such as the Scholarship Program, Evangelism and Couples’ Ministries, and more. Twenty- three ministers have been called to preach under his tenure. We are grateful to him.

On April 28, 2013, the building that housed the First Baptist family was destroyed by fire. In the book of Exodus, when God appeared to Moses, a bush was on fire, but it was not consumed. The First Baptist Church building was on fire, but First Baptist was not consumed. The church family relocated to the Family Life Center of St. John Baptist Church, Roosevelt and Main Streets, then to Shiloh Seventh Day Adventist Church at 24th and Maple Streets. We have continued to grow with new members. The First Baptist members continue to devote their lives to God in a way that lights up the world as a witness for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

On Sunday, July 13, 2014, we had our momentous “Ground Breaking Ceremony” for our new Sanctuary and Family Life Center, which will be located at the 17th and Oak Streets site. On October 29, 2014, we finalized the closing process. We moved into our new edifice at 1701 S. Pine Street on May 8, 2016, and we dedicated our Church to God on May 22, 2016. To God be the glory for the things He has done!!

The rich tapestry of First Baptist Church Highland Park is woven with threads of faith, community, and a steadfast commitment to serving God's people. Founded on unwavering principles and a deep-rooted belief in the power of unity, this sacred congregation has stood as a beacon of hope and spiritual guidance for generations.

In the annals of our history, July 21, 2024, marked a significant moment of transition and unity. Dr. Nathanael A. Palmer I, a visionary leader and shepherd of souls, was installed as the pastor of First Baptist Church Highland Park.

This pivotal event not only signified the dawn of a new era but also symbolized the harmonious uniting of two distinct congregations. The Assembly of Believers Baptist Church, with its fervent dedication to spreading the gospel, joined hands with the established First Baptist Church Highland Park.

The installation service was not merely a ceremony; it was a sacred covenant, a blending of hearts and spirits, a testimony to the enduring legacy of faith. As the two congregations became one, a spiritually blended family emerged, united in purpose and driven by a shared devotion to God's work. Together, they embarked on a journey of worship, service, and fellowship, guided by the timeless principles of love, compassion, and humility.

At the heart of First Baptist Church Highland Park lies a commitment to honoring God in all things. The worship services are a symphony of praise and adoration, seeking only to please the Almighty. Dr. Palmer's unique and powerful preaching style, infused with wisdom and grace, illuminates the scriptures and reveals the profound truths contained within. His humility and reverence for the word of God are evident in every sermon, inspiring the congregation to walk in the footsteps of Christ and spread the message of love and salvation. As we reflect on our past and look to the future, we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, carrying forward the torch of faith and service.

The history of First Baptist Church Highland Park is a testament to the enduring power of community, the strength of unity, and the transformative grace of God. Join us as we continue to write the next chapter of our story, guided by faith, fueled by love, and anchored in the eternal hope of salvation. Welcome to our spiritual family.