In 1867, the Legislature of the State of Nebraska authorized the establishment of a town which was to be a seat of government and in which the capitol was to be built. There was given the authority to set apart certain parts of the town to be used by church organizations that would build houses of worship in the town.
In 1868, the Reverend John M. Taggart, pastor of the Baptist church in Nebraska City, came to the proposed town of Lincoln and selected lots 10-11-12 of block 87 (the northwest corner of 11th and L streets) to be used by Baptists for their church. It was believed that the visit of Rev. D. Halterman of Marengo, Illinois in early 1869 stirred the few Baptists living in the town to come together to form First Baptist in that year.
On August 22, 1869 in the home of Mr. and Mrs. L.W. Billingsley, fourteen people gathered. It was a mixed racial group that gathered to covenant and combine themselves into what is today First Baptist Church Lincoln. These fourteen members were: Mr. & Mrs. R.R. Tingley; Mr. & Mrs. S.W. Bent; Mr. & Mrs. L.W. Billingsley; Miss Hannah Tingley; Miss Hattie Capron; Miss Harriet Crissey; Mr. Overton Bent; Dr. L.H. Potter; Mr. B.F. Cozad; Mr. Angustus Shortsburg; and Mr. Matthew Pittman, the only African-American.
We are one of the oldest churches in the state of Nebraska. We have been worshiping and serving at this present location since 1888. FBCL is an active member of the American Baptist Churches of Nebraska, and American Baptist Churches USA.
We are involved in the community as well as partnering with Karen and Sudanese congregations who also use our building. You can learn more about this unique three-church cooperative here.
First Baptist Church is in the heart of Lincoln with a heart for Lincoln.
Take a Tour of our History Room
Our Staff Members
Pastor Joy Martinez-Marshall
Pastor Joy is from The Colony, Texas. As a young woman she felt the call to be in ministry. She pursued that call as she attended Baylor University in Waco,...
Carol Tucker
Carol has been with FBCL since November 2012. She and her husband Jim have one daughter, Rhonda. Three cats are "pet members" of the family. Carol is an active square...
Lincoln Karen Baptist Church
Our facilities have been the home for the Karen since 2008. We are so proud to host the Karen (pronounced Car’in) Congregation and their ministry here in Lincoln.
Livingston Christian Church
Livingston Christian Church is a place for everyone; young, old families, couples, singles, and individuals who are strengthening their relationship with God.
Youth Ministry
Now, more than ever, it is so important to provide a place where we can all share our thoughts and opinions in a welcoming, spiritual environment. This is especially important...