Seattle First Baptist Church was founded in December 1869 when eleven members held the first service in the home of Abigail Hanford. The first church was built in 1872 and was located between present day 4th and 5th Avenues and Cherry and James Streets. The congregation soon outgrew its building. In 1899, a new sanctuary was built at the same location. By 1906, the regrading of downtown had created the need to relocate. The current site, on the corner of Harvard Avenue and Seneca Street, was chosen and completed in 1912. Throughout its existence, the Church has emphasized education and social outreach as being at the core of its mission. It offered assistance during the resettlement of Japanese after World War II and developed the Christian Center, an urban renewal project. Church leadership shifted away from a traditional hierarchical model to one of collaboration, with a coordinating pastor leading a four-person pastoral team. The Church has become known for its progressive values and engagement with urban issues.
From the description of Seattle First Baptist Church records, 1869-2006. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 123951878
