December 28, 2016, First Baptist Church was Destroyed by Arson

The Fire

In the early morning of December 28th 2016, a fire broke out in the sanctuary which was later determined to be arson. The church members and local community were shocked to learn about the incident but soon realized there was more to this and that God’s greater purpose will ultimately be revealed over time. Rebuilding the church is well underway (see below), but significant increases in construction costs in this economy have led to a shortfall of nearly $1 million, despite the new design having the same size footprint on the same lot.

WE NEED YOUR HELP! Please consider donating to the First Baptist Church Building Fund and keep construction moving forward. If construction stops, contracts will have to be re-negotiated and the costs will be even higher.

Firefighters hard at work

Raging Fire

Onlooking Firemen

Our History

For over 150 years, First Baptist Church has served the Upper Valley, meeting the spiritual and physical needs of people in our area. The building stood as a landmark just off the green in downtown Lebanon, NH.

1873

The 1800’s

Etimated 1870’s

The Aftermath

We all awoke to a terrible sight the morning of December 29th. It seemed so unreal. Just a few days ago we celebarated Christ’s birthday in the church building and now it was totally distroyed. Everyone was shocked by the devestation and wondered what might have been the cause.

After the roof collapred it became clear the building was likely a total loss which will result in a new design and large rebuilding project.

The Aftermath

Not much remained that could be reused.

Help Us Continue Serving The Community!

We have designed the new building to accommodate a vibrant, modern worship space, as well as expanded facilities for our community dinners, food pantry, clothing giveaways, youth group activities, and meeting space for local organizations. Please consider donating now and help us reclaim the corner of School Street and Green Street for our church family and yours.

Rebuilding the church is well under way, but significant increases in construction costs in this economy have led to a shortfall of nearly $1 million, despite the new design having the same size footprint on the same lot.

Our Future Church

More versatile spaces will allow us to serve Lebanon and the Upper Valley in new and exciting ways that we could never imagine in our old building.

Rebuilding the sanctuary and balcony is coming along nicely.

View from the Green

More versatile spaces like the balcony will allow us to serve and accomodate more attendees.

Who We Are:

We believe in the power of the gospel of Jesus Christ to change lives and seek to live out that gospel in our interactions with the community and in everyday life.