Our Story

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." - Hebrews 12:1

Planted in August of 1849 (making it the first protestant church in California) and spanning 22 pastors, 4 buildings and even one tent, First Baptist Church San Francisco has experienced a long and rich history over its 170-plus years of ministry to the City by the Bay. Since the beginning, FirstSF has been engaged in ongoing and impactful mission work both locally and around the world.

When one of its previous buildings burned down in the 1906 earthquake, the congregation moved their facilities to what has now become the heart of the City. In all of this, God's providential hand has been evident in the way FirstSF has continued to be gospel-centered, Biblically-driven and mission-focused, even as cultural norms have shifted over time.

No doubt, God has worked powerfully in the past of this church and we give thanks for the men and women of faith who laid the foundation on which we build. Today, we look forward with faith, believing that the best years of this church's story are ahead. We believe God is not done in San Francisco. We have an active role as we walk with Christ, praying, believing and living for the Kingdom of God and His glory in our city.