About First Baptist Church

First Baptist Church History

The History of First Baptist Church dates back to the fall of 1874 when Father Brown and two unidentified Ministers met and organized the Church at 1408 Washington Avenue in Huntsville, Arkansas, which is now North Little Rock, Arkansas.  Under the direction of Father Brown and his two Associate Ministers, and a small band of Christian believers in Christ – they elected Reverend Lawson as the first Pastor.  After the election of Pastor Lawson, the meeting place was changed to 2^nd and Main Street.

In 1880, the small Congregation moved to 2^nd and Oak Street where Pastor Lawson served faithfully until he resigned in 1896.  After Pastor Lawson resigned, Rev. B. W. Alexander served as Pastor for twelve years.  Under this leadership, the Church Membership increased to 125 members.  In 1907, the Lord called Pastor Alexander from labor to reward.  Reverend W. M. Davis, succeeding Pastor Alexander, led this band of believers to 6^th and Orange Street until it was destroyed by fire.  A new Church building at 9^th and Pine Street was erected in 1915.

In 1921, Reverend Davis was called home to rest.  We pause to give special recognition to other Ministers who labored, suffered and sacrificed their time and energy in an effort to keep the banner of First Baptist flying at high mast.  Other Pastors were W. S. Jackson, W. M. Walker, W. M. Bryant, William McKenzie, Martin Van Hudson, Robert Turner, W. G. Sangster, Alvin Green and V. M. Banks.  It was during Rev. Banks’ pastorate that the congregation united and organized to build the Lord a house.

“The face of the Lord shines upon you” was the feeling of the membership when the Urban Renewal Project purchased the Church at 9^th and Pine Street in 1967.  A new spirit was generated and with the support of the Membership and Bro. E. E. Benton, who was Chairman of the Trustee Board; they set out to construct a new Church.  Again, a new edifice was constructed on a 15,000-square foot area located at 822 Locust Street purchased from the Urban Renewal Project in 1967.  Because of the impact of the Urban Renewal Project on the Community, many Members were geographically affected, and the Church membership declined, leaving a small number to carry on.

In 1982, at the age of 21 years old, Reverend William L. Robinson became the youngest Minister elected to Pastor First Baptist Church.  Pastor Robinson brought vitality and much spiritual uplift to the Church.  Under his leadership, Membership vastly increased, and the Church experienced a myriad of new Ministries including a Tape and Radio Ministry, Nurses Guild, Senior Choir, TLC (Teens Living For Christ) Male Chorus, Young Matrons Society, Circle of Love, Prison Ministry, Children’s Church, BTU (Baptist Training Union) and a Television Ministry and a Vision Team.

There was a surge of District, State and National representation, reciprocal fellowship with other Churches and interdenominational Worship.  With the increased growth in Membership and Ministry, a new site at 811 Scipio A. Jones Drive was purchased and the Groundbreaking Service for the new edifice was held on May 9, 1993.  The new edifice was completed in the spring of April 1994.  First Baptist made the historical march from 822 Locust Street to the present site on the day of our Lord, April 24, 1994 with Governor Jim Guy Tucker, Mayor Patrick Hays and Attorney General Winston Bryant present for the first Service.

The Dedicatorial Services were held on Sunday, June 12, 1994.  Pastor Robinson reminded everyone to not forget to dedicate ourselves, our service and our resources to God, just as we have dedicated our new Church to the honor and glory of God.  Many spirit-filled Services were held over the years that strengthened the Membership, both in number and spirit.

The Church was the largest in the area, accommodating over 1200 at some of the Services; with an impact of Members, Pastor Robinson’s focused on Ministries that blessed the members and community.

After nearly ten years, in November of 2003, the 129^th Anniversary was celebrated, “To God Be the Glory – Over a Century for Christ” – almost a decade after moving to the new location, under the leadership of Pastor Robinson, membership increased to over 1000 members. Many Ministries were added as the Church continued to grow.

The first “4” Church Fellowship Service was held at First Baptist with Second Baptist Church, Longley Baptist Church and New Hope Baptist coming together each 5^th Sunday for Worship and fellowship.  

During the earlier part of 2003, First Baptist members and families were activated for the War on Terrorism.  We continue to pray daily for all the troops until they all come home.  New Ministries such as a Substance Abuse Ministry, Cancer Support Ministry, Economic Development Ministry, and a Scholarship Fund Ministry for Post-Secondary Education were in place to help Members.  Other Ministries such as a Mortgage Liquidation Ministry, a Planning Research for Expansion Ministry, the Children’s Choir “God’s Angels” with over sixty members, and the Youth Choir was added to uplift First Baptist.  The Sunday School Department classes increased to include a Young Adult Class for 20 – 30 years of age, a Discipleship Class, plus Youth Classes for all ages.  An 8:00 a.m. Early Morning Worship Service was implemented so that Members would have a choice of Services to accommodate their varying schedules.

The Vision as seen through the eyes of Pastor Robinson for 2004 was “Pursuing Order and Expecting Manifestation.”  God is God of order and when we diligently pursue order, we can fervently expect Manifestation. 

The Lord hath done great things for us, wherefore we are glad, (Psalm 126:3) and because of the insightful wisdom of Deacon N. P. Marshall, (Financial Consultant) and a prayerful First Baptist Fold, this Church became Debt-Free as of February 2004.  

The “Principles of 2004” emphasized, “Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness and All These Things will Be Added unto You.”  As we continued to do the Works of our Lord, to bring souls back to Christ and into the Church, to have knowledge of God’s Word and to be steadfast active Christians, always remember, “Lord thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations,” (Psalm 90:1).  

Some of the Historical Highlights of late 2003 and 2004 consisted of a new Computer and Tutoring Lab to serve our Youth, the Annual Christmas Pageant, Watch Meeting Service, Extended Class Time for Sunday School each 3^rd Sunday, Youth Trip to Orlando, Florida, the Mothers’ Board added seven Mothers to the Mother’s Board of the Church, and the Women’s Ministry presented a “Women In White” Reception.

The Mortgage Burning Celebrations in June highlighted the whole year with special guests and a special banquet.  The 23^rd Appreciation Service of Pastor Robinson, the 11^th Annual City-Wide Revival and other Annual days of First Baptist Ministries were also highlighted events.  In November of 2004, the 130^th Church Anniversary was held, and Pastor Robinson shared from his heart the Worship Service Message.  The year ended with Men’s Day and a great Watch Meeting Service.  

The Vision of 2005, “A Stronger First Baptist” was presented to the Congregation in January 2005, calling the Members to be a Ministry of Maturity. New Ministries consisted of the Security, Wedding Coordinating, Caleb and Joshua’s, Community Resources, Focus, Special Events, and Restore, and the Ordination of two Ministers, (Minister C. B. Robinson and Minister Harry Murphy). 

On Sunday, November 6, 2005, we came together for the 131^st Church Anniversary and All Ministries Day; the first combined Service in the history of our Church to be held “Honoring Our Past…. Building Our Future.”  The year of 2005 celebration was a continuation of our Pastor’s vision and initial plan for “2005 – A Stronger First Baptist.”  This gave us an opportunity to come together as one body and reflect on our progress over the years.

On the 5^th day of November 2006, many members shared memories of how the Vision of 2006 “Commitment and Teamwork” helped us as a team “Totally Excited About Ministry” know that all things should be done for God’s glory.  Everyone’s focus, of spiritually reshaping, remodeling and reorganizing, better equipped us for our Church’s Ministry.  The Ministries focused on “Commitment and Teamwork” through the study of the Word, Worship and Outreach.  The power of the preached Word increased our membership through baptism and rededication, restored families and changed lives.

Members of the four Church Fellowship enjoyed and were blessed through the Worship Services – because of the continued support from members and friends; a “Four Church Fellowship” Watch Meeting Service was held at the Robinson Center Music Hall in Little Rock, Arkansas; over 3000 attended.  High School Graduates received scholarships from the Scholarship Ministry to assist with school expenses.  Surrounding Churches and friends supported the 14^th Annual City-Wide Revival with Pastor Jerry Black of Atlanta, Georgia. 

The Deacon Board increased by two Deacons to assist the Pastor and Members.  New Choir Robes were purchased for the Sanctuary Choir and dedicated at the Dedicatory Service held in September of 2006. 

On November 4, 2007, another great celebration was held for the 133^rd Church Anniversary and all the honor and praise was given to God for 133 years.  First Baptist grew stronger and more spirit-filled because of the commitment and dedication of the Members and the longest tenure Pastor; Rev. William L. Robinson.  The Church celebrated the Silver Anniversary Service of Pastor Robinson in July.  The Vision of “Moving Forward in 2007’ Ministries and Souls” continued to strengthen and guide First Baptist Church in doing the work of Kingdom Building for our Lord and Savior as we prepared to move into another year.  

Nearly 200 members were added to the First Baptist fold; to God we give all the praise.  We also paused to remember those who paved the way before us, those who answered the heavenly roll call and the loyal members of this great Church.  Many new Ministries were implemented during the year to include a Vision Team, Men of Standard, Women of Destiny, Home to Home Visitation, and Obadiah’s Kitchen.  Pastor Robinson saw attributes in Sister Melvie Rippond as she served on the Budget Committee and assisted in the Finance Room that led to her appointment as the first female to serve as a Trustee.  All Members and Ministries of First Baptist “moved forward in 2007” through prayer, praise, and worship.  We give all honor and praise to God for his blessings as we “Celebrated our Journey – 133 years.”

Pastor Robinson presented the Vision of 2008, “Working Together, In Love, Growing Stronger In Christ” and the new Ministry Leaders and Ministries for the year, to the many Members.  Because of increased members, the Church also increased the Deacon Board by two Deacons. 

Some of the highlighted Events during the year of 2008 were – First Baptist purchased a twenty-five-passenger mini-bus, and audio monitors were installed throughout the Church.  The Men of Standard’s Ministry ministered and fellowshipped together and also attended several College games.

Retreats were held for the Youth during the summer and the Women’s Ministry held workshops and conferences that prepared them to be “armed and dangerous” against Satan and stronger for the Lord.  For the first time in the State of Arkansas; over one-hundred Churches of different denominations came together to worship and give praises to our Lord – known as the Arkansas Gathering – many nationally known Pastors were in attendance.  First Baptist Church served as host of the Day Sessions while the Night Sessions were held at the Statehouse Convention Center. 

Pastor Robinson, having prayed much for the 2008 Vision; set First Baptist in place to impact the Community, City and State this year and to change and recreate the things that will meet the needs of God’s people – Working together in love and growing stronger in Christ.  “Let’s all work together to accomplish all that God has for us.”  On Sunday, November 2, 2008, we celebrated a year with continued increase, both in number and spiritually.

The Vision of 2009 – Exalting the Savior, Equipping the Saints, and Evangelizing the Sinner – attendance increased, and many souls confessed their faith in God for the first time and were baptized.  A Church Development Workshop was held for all leaders and members before the Installation of Officers to instill in individuals the importance of their position within their Ministry.  First Baptist hosted a Health Fair for the entire Community in May and continues to serve “food for the hungry” through Obadiah’s Kitchen Ministry every Tuesday.

A Community Outreach Events Program was held to inform every one of the many resources available to assist individuals with job search and retraining opportunities by inviting the Director of the Department of Workforces Services to come and share the latest information; this was the first time in the history of First Baptist and the Community that so many came together to be enlightened about Community Services.

The Annual City-Wide Revival held in August included two nationally known Pastors and other recording artists to minister to the many in attendance.  As First Baptist continues to grow spiritually and do the works of Kingdom Building; Pastor Robinson suggested and presented to the Congregation, the Ordination of Brothers Daniel Bearden, Clifford Small and Christopher Young, all received their Ordination Certificates with the blessings of the Ordination Counsel.  Bro. Raymond Byrd was also licensed to Preach.

Several years ago, First Baptist implemented a plan of unity for the many Ministries to acknowledge and honor all Ministries on the same day as the Church Anniversary is celebrated and it is still in place on this very special day in 2009.

The Vision of 2010, “Following Jesus” was accepted in January by the Congregation with many objectives to fulfill.  We give all the honor and praises to God for another year with many coming together and working together like never before to carry on the Pastor’s Vision. 

As stated by Pastor Robinson, “there is greatness upon us and we must recognize that our identity is defined by Him “who has called us out of darkness into the marvelous light.”  The Community Health Event continued to impact and bring the Community and surrounding areas together with resources that empowered lives. 

God has given us an awesome opportunity to reach out to one another and understand the importance of the Vision “Following Jesus” as many Guest Ministers reinforced to us during the brief illness and absence of our Pastor; Pastor Robinson suffered a Stroke on August 9, 2010.  Another special Celebration was Arkansas Baptist College Day held on Mission Sunday in September 2010.  Over a hundred young men from Baptist College attended Service and were served Lunch.

On Sunday, November 7, 2010, we celebrated the 136^th Church Anniversary with many members and Guests present – the theme was, “Through a Higher Level of Obedience, Advancing the Kingdom of God” – II Corinthians 10:5.

In January 2011, Pastor Robinson returned to the Pulpit and to his responsibilities with a new Vision for 2011.  The Vision for 2011, Committed To Moving Forward, was presented by Pastor Robinson and quickly accepted by the Members with the supportive scripture of “Where there is no vision, the people perish; but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” 

Highlights of 2011 consisted of the appointment of Deacon Ivory Lyles as Church Administrator.  Plans were announced for the implementation of a Family Life Center to meet the growing needs of the First Baptist Family and Community.  An “All Leaders Conference” was held focusing on how to better serve as a Ministry Leader.  First Baptist completed a phase of remodeling and repairs to give it a new vigor for the members and community.  Several buses of Youth journeyed to Orlando, Florida during Spring Break for the Annual Youth Trip.

A Banquet was held for the Graduating Seniors honoring their Parents and to announce details of their plans during the Annual Youth Day weekend.  Over two hundred Youth participated in the Youth Conference and Annual Youth Day with guests from around the State.  The 29^th Anniversary Celebrations of Pastor Robinson was held in July with a “Pre-Anniversary Musical” with many invited guests and friends.  The Annual City-Wide Revival was held with many members and guests present to hear three national renowned Evangelist – Pastor Bertrand Bailey, Jr., Dr. Frank Ray and Pastor Jerry Black during six nights of singing and preaching. 

The Women’s Ministry held a “Three-Day Annual Women’s Conference” with guests from Mississippi, Texas and Louisiana, entitled “Women of Substance – Sisters Loving Sisters as We Love Ourselves.”  As First Baptist Church turned 137 years old, we paused to give honor to those who opened the doors for us and to say thank you to the many that still carried the torch for the future.  The 137^th Church Anniversary Celebration was a blessing as we acknowledged the Church that loves God and believes that through God all things are possible.

The Vision of 2012 “Healing This House in 2012” confirmed by the members; to reach the next level, we must increase in Prayer, Praise and Worship.  Many Workshops and Seminars were held to help us learn how to be a better Servant of God.  The major focus in 2012 was spiritual development for the entire family.  All Officers, Leaders and Ministries led with a great enthusiasm and passion.  We impacted the Community through our Mission and Obadiah’s Kitchen Ministries. 

The Annual City-Wide Revival attendance grew both in spirit and attendance.  Our Church Membership continued to increase, and souls were saved.  The Youth stepped up their Ministry of learning about God as seen by the increased attendance in Sunday School and Bible Study.  The Men’s Ministry Conference, the Women’s Conference and Gala highlighted the importance of developing healthier lifestyle changes.  

The Edifice was updated, and the Membership continually prepared for the Family Life Center.  May God continue to bless First Baptist as we moved forward by Faith as the Church acknowledged the 138^th Church Anniversary on Sunday, November 4, 2012.

The Vision of 2013 as presented by Pastor Robinson, “Moving forward in 2013” was highly accepted by the Membership at the beginning of the year.  All Officers, Leaders and Ministries accepted their new positions and were installed to start serving.  The new Vision offered a myriad of activities for all members and the community.  Pastor Robinson emphasized to everyone, to be blessed; you must be a blessing to others.

Some Services and Events throughout the year that blessed us included; Members and friends participated in and supported the Easter Program.  The Annual Youth Day and High School Seniors Day gave our Youth an opportunity to share and highlight their gifts as they praised God through Worship.  The 31^st Anniversary of Pastor Robinson was held with Dr. Robert Smith, Jr. of Detroit, Michigan. 

The Annual City-Wide Revival blessed many with six nights of Word, Worship and Praise.  The “4” Church Fellowship” held a 10^th year Anniversary Service in September.  First Baptist worshipped and fellowship with many Churches throughout the year with a record number of members and friends traveling to Paris Texas for the Church Outing.  Many from the surrounding Communities attended our Annual Christmas Program.  Through unity and the efforts of “An Unshakeable Church Because of a God Who Never Fails” First Baptist gave all the honor and praise to God for all that He has done, at our 139^th year Celebration.  We praised and thanked God for another year.

First Baptist started the new year of 2014 with Pastor Robinson’s Vision – Commitment and Focus on the Families – supported by Joshua 24:15b.  Each year our Church continues to come together through unity, to accept the new Vision and with the installation of Officers, Leaders and Ministries.  With the appointment of 2014 Leaders and Ministries; the greatest change and increase was the appointment of four new Mothers being added to the Mothers Board Ministry.  Multiple Workshops and Seminars were held for the Men, Women and Youth to teach, train, reemphasize, reconnect and recommit in being a stronger Christian.

Some of the highlights shared by the many Members of First Baptist during 2014:  The High School Seniors were introduced to the next level of continuing Education with trips to Colleges to assist in their choices and they also attended several workshops to prepare them for College.

The In-House and Annual City-Wide Revivals blessed everyone with the presence of special guests to share God’s Word.  Having a healthier lifestyle carried over into this year with seminars, brunches and conferences being held to update families and friends on the importance of taking care of the whole body and mind with the emphasizes on always putting God first.

With the celebration of the 32^nd Anniversary Service of Pastor Robinson; many community leaders and guests from the surrounding cities wished him well and shared that First Baptist is firmly rooted and will reach new heights because we love, worship and give all praises to God.  The year 2014, through many challenges, continues “to lead Souls to Jesus Christ through the communication of the gospel and to ensure the Word of God with simplicity and humility through the power and direction of the Holy Spirit.”

The 140^th Church Anniversary Celebrations held during the traditional first weekend of November, lifted the spirits of everyone with a Banquet held at the Clinton’s Library for Members and Friends prior to the Annual Sunday’s Services. 

Pastor Robinson introduced the quickly approved Vision “Renewed Commitment in 2015” to the Members with excitement and it was greatly received.  Throughout the year; some of the Ministry activities included an additional Mother being added to the Mothers Board Ministry and two Deacons added to the Deacon’s Board.  The Youth were blessed by national recording star, Minister Zacardi Cortez of Houston Texas on Annual Youth Day.

Pastor Robinson’s 33^rd Pastor’s Appreciation Celebration was held with Pastor Jonathon Carter as the special guest with many other guests and friends present to celebrate with him.  Revivals were held to revive, renew and refresh the Church and Communities and many Souls walked down the aisles throughout the year to join our Membership and to be baptized.

The Health Ministry had an increase in participation with the “Race for the Cure” and Pink Carnation Sunday special Service.  Special guests were present to give “Flu Shots and Free Health Screenings after both Services.  The 141^st Church Anniversary Services were held on November 01, 2015 with the President of Shorter College – Dr. O. Jerome Green as the Messenger of the “Hour of Power” Service.  Dr. Dante Wright and his Congregation from Round Rock, Texas were the Sunday Morning Worship Service Guests.

Pastor Robinson reminded us, “As we anticipate what God is going to do for us, it is going to take our entire membership’s hard work and all of our willing workers, and our Sisters and Brothers praying and serving together.  Join us in doing God’s Work and to be the Church God wants us to be.”

December was very busy with preparations for the New Year; with the Presentation of the 2016 Vision, “Renewed Focus and Consistent Commitment” and the Ministry Leaders of 2016.  On December 17^th – the Watch Night Service ended the year and started a New Year for First Baptist. 

Pastor Robinson 2016 focus was “Christ is being preached, Truth is being taught, Souls are being saved and all of our Ministries are stronger.”  Some of the Highlights of the year included:  Installations of Officers and Leaders with Sis. Euleta Ware as the Keynote Speaker.  The Annual Quartet Musical, the Soul Food Supper prepared by the Deaconess Ministry, the Women’s Ministry held several Workshops, a Retreat.

The Women’s Ministry acknowledged and participated in the Race for the Cure and Pink Carnation Sunday recognized First Baptist Breast Cancer Survivors.  The Men’s Ministry also held several Workshops.  Several Revivals were held to increase and refresh our relationship with God.  We were blessed with three Ministers being ordained, three Ministers preached their first Sermon and one Deacon was added to the Deacon Board.  An increase in Tithes and Offerings allowed for the purchase of a new Van.

The Health Fair attendance was a record breaker with many Resource Agencies present. The Youth celebrated on Annual Youth Day, attended a Youth Banquet and all participating High School Seniors received “FBC” Scholarships.  Vacation Bible Study kept us busy all week, learning and hearing more about God.  Pastor Robinson’s 34^th Pastor Appreciation Service with Dr. Jonathon Carter as Guest Messenger, was a blessing to many. All Usher Boards combined for their Special Recognition Day; and the Sanctuary Choir held two Concerts.  The Church Picnic attendees had plenty of fun, food and fellowship.

The first Sunday of November 2016 brought happiness to many as we celebrated 142 years of Worship on our Church Anniversary and all Ministries Day.  We thank God and give him all the glory for what he has done and is doing for us. 

Pastor Robinson presented the Church with the new Vision of 2017 “Reset in 2017” at the last Business Meeting of 2016.  The beginning of 2017 was highlighted by the acceptance of the new Vision and the Installation of all Officers, Leaders and Ministries.  The Annual Quartet Musical brought many visitors and friends from the surrounding area to fellowship with us.  Ministry Leadership Workshops were in place to update the Officers and Leaders on how to be a more effective and productive Leader.

The Discipleship Class and Discipleship One on One Class were added to assist individuals in learning more about God and the Ministry of the Church.  The Men’s Retreat was held in Solgohachia, Arkansas.  The Health Ministry shared and implemented ways to help us develop a healthier lifestyle through exercising and better eating habits.  The Youth Department traveled to St. Louis Missouri, at the end of the school year and also hosted enhancement workshops in hot topic areas. 

Pastor Robinson’s 35^th Pastoral Anniversary with Pastor Kevin Willis of Memphis Tennessee as the guest speaker was a blessing to all.  Pastor Alan Keitt and his family from South Carolina, surprised Pastor Robinson with their presence, before leaving for another tour of duty in Germany.

The Church Outing of the year was a trip to Austin Texas; fun was had by all with Members using all forms of transportation to get there.  Pastor Robinson’s Outreach Ministry and outside Engagements to Preach and Teach blessed many through his travels, both locally and statewide.  New friendships developed personally and through the Social Media – remember Pastor Robinson’s famous quote, “the only way to have a friend is to be a friend”.

Vacation Bible School participants wanted to extend their classes another night because they enjoyed the classes; attendance remained high all week long.  The City-Wide Holy Communion Service was the beginning of the Annual City-Wide Revival.  Many were blessed through the praise and worship Services with Pastors Frank E. Ray, Jerry D. Black, Bertrand Bailey, Jr. and Tim Rogers mighty Messages.  First Baptist, known for setting high standards, was recognized by the Division of Christian Education, Sunday School Publishing Board of the National Baptist Convention, as the first Church to host two Christian Leadership Schools at the same time by two new Deans – Sister Laura Landrum and Sister Euleta Ware. 

Pre-Church Anniversary Services were held leading up to the Anniversary on the first Sunday in November 2017; the Sanctuary Choir’s Musical Concert, an “Over sixty (60) Celebration Reception for all Members over the age of sixty and the Pre-Church Anniversary Service.  The Theme was “Through God’s Grace – 143 Years.” The Ministries of First Baptist, as stated by Pastor Robinson, must all bond together and leave no Ministry or Member behind as we prepare spiritually for such times as these.

Pastor Robinson’s daily prayer is that we love one another and give the same love as we want to receive.  Through it all, each day know that our God is still on the Throne!  Let us remember – Be ye steadfast, unmovable in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know, that your labour is not in vain in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58).  After the Birthday Celebration of First Baptist Church – plans were put in place for the new year of 2018.

The Vision of the Church for 2018 is “Equipping the Church of Today for Tomorrow” as presented by Pastor Robinson.  New Ministries and Leaders were installed to assist in carrying out the plan.  Highlights of the year 2018 consist of – 

• The Black History Program hosted by the Deaconess and Ministers Wives Ministry.
• The 13^th Annual Unity Men’s Sit ending with an “All Men Prayer Meeting.
• The 3^rd Annual Associate Ministers In-House Revival.
• Pastor Robinson was the guest speaker for the National Holy Convocation for the Church of God in Christ. 
• All Ushers Boards combined to celebrate their special day during both Worship Services.
• The Sanctuary Choir’s Concert blessed the members with a great selection of Songs.
• The Youth celebrated Annual Youth Day and all High School and College Graduates were recognized during “Education Day”.
• Pastor Robinson and Members celebrated and acknowledged his 36^th Appreciation Celebration.
• Followed by the Union District Congress.  First Baptist Church received the Highest in Attendance Trophy/Award.
• The Annual City-Wide Revival was held six nights with many guest speakers, members and friends.
• The Singles Ministry’s largest outing of the year was a trip to Branson, Missouri to see the play “Samson”.
• The Men’s Ministry held their Weekend Retreat 2018 in Solgohachia, Arkansas. 
• The 2^nd Christian Leadership School brought many together for two nights.
• The Church Outing at Burns Park gave members plenty of fun, food and fellowship.
• The Women’s Ministry Conference blessed the hearts of many women with the two-day spirit-filled Events.
• Many members and friends gathered at the Church Banquet – leading up to this 144^th Church Anniversary.
• The 144^th Church Anniversary Celebrations were held on Sunday, November 4^th with Pastor William L. Robinson and Pastor Rickey Hicks of Rufus K. Young Christian Church, Little Rock.
• The Annual Youth Christmas Program was presented by the Youth Department and friends. 
• The Vision of 2019, “Commitment and People” was presented by Pastor Robinson on Tuesday, December 18^th the end of the year business meeting.  The Watch Night Service was held on Monday Night, December 31^st with many in attendance.  

Pastor Robinson’s closing statement for the year also served as a beginning for us – “Equipping the Church for Tomorrow” with God’s Word, Worship, Praise, Serving and Ministry will guide us to where He wants this Church to be.  We are not there yet – but we are on our way.

“Get on Board” – be more than a Member – be a willing worker and member.  Remember God loves you and so do we.

Highlights of the year 2019 consisted of – 

• The Installation of Officers and Leaders for 2019 was held in January.
• Trustee Melvie Rippond appointed as Church Administrator.
• The Annual Soul Food Supper and Black History Program were held in February.
• Women’s Ministry Kickoff Breakfast.
• In-House Associate Ministers Revival.
• Vacation Bible School, Annual Youth Day and all Usher Boards Annual Day.
• Pastor Robinson’s 37^th Appreciation Celebration.
• Health Fair, Back to School Bash and Annual City-Wide Six-Night Revival.
• Annual Men’s Ministry Retreat and the 3^rd Annual Christian Leadership School.
• Sanctuary Choir Concert, Pink Carnation Sunday and Pre-Church Anniversary Service.
• Today, Sunday, November 03, 2019 – our 145^th Church Anniversary / Celebration.
• The Vision of 2020, “Back to Ministry in 2020” was approved and accepted by the Members at the Business Meeting and Church was set for another year.  The main focus was to care for those inside and outside of the Church’s 
• The traditional Installation of Officers and Leaders was held along with the Annual Quartet Musical, February’s Black History Program, and the Associate Ministers In Housel Revival.  
• However, March of 2020 brought about drastic changes for the Church and the world as we experienced what was known as the “COVID-19 Pandemic.”  The Pandemic caused many people to be affected by sickness and death.  Churches, Schools and Businesses were officially closed with CDC guidelines advising everyone to stay home. 
• With a profound desire to Worship and Praise the Lord, Virtual Viewing was put in place with a limited number of members being allowed to attend by being one of the first of a given number to call in.  The main request was “wear a mask, wash your hands and practice social distancing and call your Doctor.”  Most Ministry Activities were not held throughout the year.  We thank God for being with us throughout the Pandemic and every day.
• Around October, Pastor Robinson reinforced in the minds of the members that we believe in the Power of Prayer and the Word of God and our position and purpose toward “COVID-19” should be, “be careful, faithful and exercise caution while refusing to be intimidated and fearful.”
• Members were encouraged to give to the 146^th Church Anniversary.  The Birthday of the Church was celebrated on November 01, 2020 – it was noted by Pastor Robinson that we have been blessed and a blessing for “146 Miraculous Years.”  Members were asked to participate in all upcoming activities by following one of the social media outlets and to please pray for your Church.  
• The Vision of 2021, “Reset in 2021 was accepted and a Virtual Watchnight Service was held to complete the year.  We have to get back to the Purpose and Mission of the Church.  Due to COVID-19, our focus of doing effective Ministry Work was lessened by so many CDC guidelines.  We need to regain, regroup and restart what God has in store for us became our temporary motto. 
• Pastor Robinson stated, “I will always believe First Baptist Church firmly rooted in Word, Worship and Praise will continue to stand in 2021, regardless of the cultural shifts and changes we will be faced with – but as you and I know, God’s love for us and Holy Bible does not change.”  We should stand on His Word and pray without ceasing with every second that we are blessed to receive.
• We must continue to follow the Covenant guidelines of our Church.  We must pray, give of our time, talents and tithes.  We must follow the CDC guidelines to get through the COVID-19 Pandemic.

• The Vision of 2022, “There is strength in Numbers” to see people saved, healed, set free, disciplined, equipped empowered and serving in God’s House.  The community and neighbors – we see them but they need to see us!  
• We must deepen our connections with the community through Health Fairs and Workshops.  Pastor Robinson informed the Members and Friends, “we are in this New Year of 2022, not knowing what the future holds, but we still plan and prepare as always.”
• The Vision of 2023, “Recommitment to Christ, Church and Ministry” – to the entire Membership, your love and loyalty just in these last nearly three years with COVID-19, the impact of COVID-19 delayed a lot of things here.  “But what you First Baptist have done, was continue to be a praying, caring and sharing Church.”  First Baptist officially reopened Sunday, April 04, 2023 with limited activities and events and In-House involvement and participation going into the New Year of 2024.
• The Vision of 2024, “First Baptist Stronger in 2024” can and will develop into fruition and fulfillment if you provide and give support and pray for understanding, commitment and guidance as we move forward.  This year 2024, we must attend Sunday School, Bible Study, and other educational services.  I need each of you as leaders, to pray daily for the strength of your Ministry and for the growth of this Church.
• We have ministries for all ages and all levels of Christian growth.  First Baptist has proven over the years to be a blessing to the members and community through the available resources provided through the Crises Ministry created to help the hungry and homeless.  The Black History Program, and the Associate Ministers Three Night In-House Revival blessed many with their various delivery styles.  The Youth and little Children started practicing early for the Easter Program and Speech Presentations.
• Arkansas Baptist College presented Pastor Robinson with a Honorary Doctorate Degree of Humane Letters during their Commencement Exercises held at St. John Baptist Church in Little Rock. The Degree was in recognition of his distinguished Community Services.  Annual Youth Day and other Youth Activities and the Women’s Ministry “Women’s Day” Program Services, with many songs and awesome Messages were highlights of the summer.  
• Many friends and families attended the 42^nd Pastoral Celebrations and the Annual City-Wide Revival.  Out-of-State and local guests gave support to both occasions. Two Ministers and one Deacon received their Ordination Certificates from the Ordination Counsel consisting of Pastors from local Churches. 
• Now today, Sunday November 3, 2024; we thank God and give to God all of the love, honor and praises for one hundred and fifty “150” years.  We thank God for all of the memories He has given us.  Remember First Baptist” Growing Stronger and Reaching Higher in 2024” as we move forward with love, peace and joy.