Since 1886
One church,
many nations.
The story of how a small country congregation became a family from 60 nations — a glimpse of heaven in one Georgia zip code.
Our story
A faith handed down, a family made wider.
For nearly a century and a half, First Baptist Duluth has gathered on this ground through fire, growth, and change. Then our neighborhood became one of the most diverse in America — and we discovered the church God was calling us to become.
A church is born
Duluth Baptist Church is organized on February 13. The first building goes up for $500 on land donated by J.E. New.
Taking root
The young congregation grows steadily — membership reaches 85 as the church settles into the life of the town.
Through the fire
On July 21, the original building is destroyed by fire. Undeterred, members rebuild by hand — donating their own material and labor.
Built on the rock
The distinctive granite church — still standing in downtown Duluth — is completed, a landmark of the congregation's resolve.
A new home
The growing church relocates to its current location, making room for the generations still to come.
Room to worship
The current worship center is completed — the gathering place where the church's next chapter would unfold.
A line in the sand
At the Mayor's State of the City, Pastor Mark Hearn hears that 57 languages are spoken at Duluth High. That day, the church commits to crossing every language and cultural barrier with the gospel.
A glimpse of heaven
Members from about 60 nations — and rising — now worship as one family. Every Sunday looks a little more like Revelation 7.
From mono to multicultural
nations, one family.
“After this I looked, and there was a vast multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”Revelation 7:9–10
Our journey, in the news
Read the full story
Chronicled by our pastor.
Senior Pastor Mark Hearn tells the story of the church's journey from a single-culture church to a multicultural family in two books.
Technicolor
How one church learned to reflect the beautiful diversity of its community — and of heaven.
Hearing in Technicolor
The next chapter — listening, leading, and discipling across cultures and languages.
The story continues
Come be part of what's next.
There's a place for you in this family. Join us this Sunday and see a glimpse of heaven for yourself.
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