In February of 1979, Pastor Gary Hirth, under the compelling call of God to start a church in Ann Arbor, conducted the first service of Ann Arbor Baptist Church. Seven people were present for that first service, meeting in the home of John Burtt on a Wednesday night. Soon after, they began meeting on Sundays at the Ann Arbor Y. From the beginning, the emphasis of the church was on personal soul-winning, separated living, and strong Biblical preaching. Through the weekly visitation program, the church slowly, but steadily grew.
At the end of the first year, they began renting a newly constructed church building on Pauline Street. In 1988, the building was purchased along with the adjoining house to serve as a parsonage. The church building was remodeled and expanded, but it soon became evident that the location in Ann Arbor was too small for the growing congregation.
Property was purchased to construct a
new church building on South Wagner Road with a capacity for about 400 people. The church began services at the new location in April of 1995.
With the objective of reaching people for Christ, the church is still continuing to grow. Each year, converts are being baptized and members are being added. The University of Michigan provides a unique mission field with many students coming from foreign countries. Through the campus ministry, students are saved, discipled and return home as a witness for the Lord. The church’s present location has opened new opportunities to minister to the surrounding communities. The ministry from that first service until now continues to grow—
taking the Word to the world.
