About
Our Story
First Baptist Church is a community of faith as diverse as the world in which we serve. We strive to ensure that everyone is welcomed and valued, regardless of background, identity, or place of origin. (See our Declaration of Inclusion link here)
Reflecting the love of Christ and acting on our faith and beliefs with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we serve the needs of our local community and world through active service and denominational mission in order to show God’s love to the world.
As American Baptists, we strongly affirm the 4 Fragile Freedoms of Historic Baptist Identity. - Soul Freedom meaning no creeds or other barriers to an individual's relationship to God, Bible Freedom meaning that each person is free to study and interpret Scripture, Church Freedom meaning that each congregation determines their life together, and Religious Freedom meaning that no civil authority can determine or deter an individual's expression of faith. This freedom is more commonly known as the Separation of Church and State.
We stand firm against White Christian Nationalism which attempts to merge the language of Christianity with secular, political power.
We are part of the American Baptist Churches, USA, one of the most racially diverse Protestant denominations in the United States and Puerto Rico.
We gladly welcome all who come to worship in our gorgeous sanctuary (or with us through Zoom or Facebook) and who participate with us in growing in faith and serving with joy.
Interesting Fact
First Baptist Church is a member of the American Baptist Churches, USA. Our regional affiliation is with ABC, Rochester/Genesee.
We are centrally located in beautiful downtown Burlington, Vermont. There is ample free street parking. Our building is fully handicapped accessible. An elevator connects all four floors of the building.
First Baptist Church is located at 81 St. Paul Street, which runs parallel to the Church Street Market Place in downtown Burlington. See link to map.