OUR HISTORY

An early church record book states that “the origin of the church must be attributed to the Holy Spirit accompanying the preaching of the Gospel.”  In the summer of 1807 a “colored” preacher from Boston, the Rev. Thomas Paul, was used by God as an instrument of revival in Freeport.

Several converts became convinced that immersion of believers was the only proper form of baptism according to the Scripture.  Sarah Dunham and Betty Wesson were baptized on October 8, 1807, and the first Baptist service held on October 11.

On November 20, 1807, a Calvinistic Baptist church of 17 members was organized in the house of Nathan Wesson.  Forty-five were baptized within one year.  The first meetinghouse was erected in 1809.  Those early years were marked by spiritual prosperity, doctrinal differences, and discipline (even some of the founding members and deacons were excluded from fellowship periodically).

Numerous revivals occurred during the history of the church.  On one Sunday in 1883 over fifty were baptized.

The second church on the site was dedicated in 1897—a beautiful Gothic structure designed by prominent Maine architect John Calvin Stevens.  It was leveled by fire on Sunday morning March 5, 1944.

The present meetinghouse was completed in 1952, and the Christian education building purchased in 1965 (it currently provides learning space for Maine Classical School).

During the last two decades of the 20^th century, the church became known for its biblical preaching, joy-filled members, and continued faithfulness to the gospel.

We exist to serve God and the people of this area.  We want to be biblical, evangelical Christians who speak and live the Good News of Jesus Christ.

As we approach our 200^th year, we recommit ourselves to Christ and his kingdom—working for the peace and unity of the church, and the good of society.