As time went on, the church seized the opportunity to expand its ministry by starting Sunday School classes. The inaugural Sunday School was held on May 19, 1867. As the congregation continued to grow, the need for a larger building became evident. On August 10, 1893, the cornerstone was laid for a new building at the corner of Livingston and Mill Streets, with a dedication service taking place in March 1894.

 

On July 17, 1921, Miss Lennie Rhodes from the Swygert Church became the first woman in Illinois to be ordained as a minister, with her ordination taking place at the Pontiac Church and led by Rev. W.C. Boyd. Later, on May 23, 1924, Pastor Boyd's successor, Harold Hayward, was also ordained at the Pontiac Church.

 

In May 1949, plans were initiated to add a Christian Educational Building, and the cornerstone was laid on April 9, 1950. The building was completed and dedicated on April 20, 1952. In 1975, the land just south of the building was acquired to be used as a parking lot. Today, that area is occupied by the Public Safety Complex, which houses the police and fire departments.

 

As growth continued in all areas of church life, the need for

a larger facility became evident once again.

On October 3, 1983, the present property, formerly

Ladd Grade School was purchased. Church services were

first held in the gymnasium on December 2, 1984.

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In April 1987 the church hired an architectural firm to draw plans for a new sanctuary to be located on the present site.  

 

On May 19, 1993, a groundbreaking ceremony was held to mark the beginning of construction of the long-awaited sanctuary.  Construction proceeded on schedule and the congregation celebrated Christmas Eve 1993 in the beauty of the new sanctuary, where stained glass windows from our former church building were displayed.  A dedication service was conducted on February 6, 1994.

 

​With God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit at the heart of its ministry to members and the community, First Baptist Church of Pontiac, Illinois, continues to light the way with a legacy of caring and outreach into the future.

 

Rev. H. Gene Stringer answered the call of the Lord, On July 21st, 2024, to become Pastor. He preached his first sermon as pastor September 1st, 2024, ​

 

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and

not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."    - Jeremiah 29:11

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