First Baptist Church of Elyria began in 1836 with a pastor fresh out of seminary and six members. That first pastor, Daniel Wait, received $100 of support per year. The small congregation met in the Lorain County Court House. Shortly after revival meetings, steps were taken toward the construction of the first church building. A lot on the corner of Middle Avenue and 2nd Street was donated by the Ely family for the construction of a church building. That first church building was completed in 1839.
By the 1880's, the church had outgrown its facilities. A much larger building was constructed in 1884 on the corner of Middle Avenue and 2nd Street. This new building cost $22,500.
During the next few decades, the church grew steadily. In 1920, during the ministry of R. E. Neighbour, a group of pastors and laymen formed Baptist Mid-Missions. Currently, Baptist Mid-Missions has over 1100 missionaries in over 50 countries. In 1929, under the leadership of Pastor Robert T. Ketcham, the church severed its relationship with the Northern Baptist Convention. In 1936, during the pastorate of Ralph Neighbour, the church became a member of the General Association of Regular Baptist Churches.
The church's third church building was built in 1951 on Washington Avenue, during the ministry of Pastor Arthur Williams. During the late 1950's and early 1960's the church experienced tremendous growth. In 1976, the church started First Baptist Christian School. In 1983, under the leadership of Pastor Willis Hull, the church moved into new facilities on a 33 acre parcel of land at the corner of Lagrange Road and Highway 20. In 1984, Pastor Bradley Quick began his ministry in Elyria. He continues to pastor the church to this day.
In November 2002, the church completed construction of an 1100 seat auditorium. The new facility which is attached to the older building, also includes a large foyer, new pastoral staff offices, a nursery suite and several new classrooms. The project cost approximately $3 ½ million.
Over the decades First Baptist Church has sent many of its people to the mission field and to pastorates around the country. The church has had a spiritual impact on its community. God's blessing on First Baptist Church is not only a testimony to its great people and pastors; it's a testimony to God's faithfulness.