Nearly 100 years ago a handful of people broke the desert ground for a fledgling congregation determined to seek God’s heart, to reach those who didn’t know Him and to build community in what was to become Scottsdale, Arizona. The First Baptist Church of Scottsdale continues to pursue Christ’s mission through faith, committed leadership and open-handed generosity.

What began as a small outpost of men and women has grown into a vibrant community of faith in the urban center of Scottsdale. The congregation has persevered through times of growth and crisis by stepping up to the challenges in creative and purposeful ways. God has provided leaders intent on pursuing the vision of Christ despite financial or cultural limitations. The result is a healthy, growing church ready for a groundbreaking opportunity.

OLD MISSIONS AND NEW CHALLENGES

Established in the late 1800’s by visionary Chaplain Winfield Scott, First Baptist Church of Scottsdale has been characterized by a strong sense of Christian community and an eye for opportunity to expand Christ’s kingdom.

In 1955 the church moved from the corner of Indian School and Brown to its present location at East Osborn Road and 70th Street. The faithful congregation laid the groundwork for what was to become the present 7.5-acre campus. Pastor Bob Brouwer has said:

Some of the construction in the area indicating continued growth

“This is our ground, seen and purchased by the vision of Peterson and Shipp, paid for by the dollars of hardworking people throughout the last century, and dedicated to share the transforming love of Christ.”

First Baptist Church of Scottsdale is again presented with the opportunity to break new ground. With ministries growing in depth and numbers, the present facilities are inadequate. Neighborhoods and urban centers around the church are bringing new challenges and opportunities to our front door. Explosive growth in the last five years in south Scottsdale has transformed the landscape and demographics of surrounding neighborhoods.

This growth has brought countless opportunities for First Baptist Church of Scottsdale. Additional staff has been added to accommodate growing ministries, and now it is necessary to expand the facilities to match that growth.