In 1820, James Monroe was re-elected President of the United States, Mt. Rainer erupted near what is now Seattle, and the Missouri Compromise was signed into law. That same year, The Baptist Church of Nashville (later called First Baptist Nashville) was organized. Thirty-five members of Mill Creek Baptist Church presented letters of dismission to form the new church in the Davidson County Courthouse on July 22, 1820.

To commemorate our 200th Birthday Nashville First held a brief prayer ceremony at the Nashville City Cemetery on July 22, 2020 at 7 a.m. The service was led by Pastor Frank and Bill McKee from our history committee. You can watch the event below.

Later tonight, members are encouraged to come join us along Broadway for a brief prayer service under our Bell Tower at 6 p.m. Parking will be available in Lot C, then people can walk around the building to the front gates to the patio under the Bell Tower. This will be an outside event and entrance to the building will be limited. It will also be broadcast online for those who cannot attend in person.

A much larger celebration to mark our 200th Birthday will be held in the Spring of 2021 where the entire church can participate. Nashville First Baptist Church has been a caring community of faith with a heart for the people who live, work, and enjoy downtown for 200 years, here’s to 200 more years of ministry!