How it all started...
In 1884, seven believers gathered for worship in an abandoned boxcar, sidetracked in the small timber-logging town of Laurel. From those humble beginnings, the group soon organized into an official church body. Under the leadership of Rev. Samuel Oliver Young Ray, a pioneer missionary and circuit-riding pastor, First Baptist Church was formally established with twenty-eight charter members.
Since 1901, First Baptist Laurel has been located on Fifth Street, continuing its long-standing presence in the heart of the community.
Throughout our history, we have worshiped in many buildings—but the church has never been about brick and mortar. First Baptist Laurel is a people, united in faith and on mission for the Lord Jesus Christ, committed to sharing His love and living out His truth in our community and beyond.
Since 1901, First Baptist Laurel has been located on Fifth Street, continuing its long-standing presence in the heart of the community.
Throughout our history, we have worshiped in many buildings—but the church has never been about brick and mortar. First Baptist Laurel is a people, united in faith and on mission for the Lord Jesus Christ, committed to sharing His love and living out His truth in our community and beyond.
