Church History

Roots

On January 26, 1851, 15 men and women gathered to establish a new church in Lansing. First Baptist Church of Lansing was served by a traveling pastor who conducted monthly worship services. The small but growing congregation met in homes, schools and the old frame State Capitol building. In 1859 a wooden "White Chapel" was constructed.

The congregation grew steadily and in 1892, ground was broken for a new building on the same site. In March 1894, the large Romanesque stone church was dedicated. From 1889 through 1963, nine different churches in the Lansing area were established by the church and 12 other churches were supported and nurtured.

Growth

The church established and affirmed 5 core values: Worship, Discipleship, Evangelism, Ministry and Mission and made a commitment to serve the entire Lansing area from its historic site at the corner of Capitol and Ionia.

Being a part of Christ Community Church means being a part of a vibrant spiritual community. We come together from diverse backgrounds, uniting across different ages, races, and economic statuses. Our church serves as a place where all of God's people can worship, grow, and serve together.

Future

The congregation voted to change its name from the First Baptist to Christ Community Church, strategically reaching beyond its historic Baptist roots to embrace a broader mission.

While still affiliated with American Baptist Churches, Christ Community Church sees itself as "inter-denominational in spirit," networking with many different Christian denominations and organizations.

Christ Community Church sees itself as an "ancient/future" church; a church that proudly claims its history and traditions while at the same time staying relevant and contemporary.