OUR HISTORY

The First Baptist Church of Ottawa, Kansas, was established on May 2, 1864.  It was known as the Second Baptist Church since an Indian Mission known as First Baptist Church was already in existence.  The name changed in 1896 to its present one long after the mission passed from the scene.  Some of the same people who founded this Church were responsible, four months later, for incorporating the City of Ottawa and in the next year, 1865, beginning Ottawa University.

First Baptist Church is an historic church with a vital ministry.  We are noted for our close ties with Ottawa University, a mission to the world, outstanding music, a civic responsibility, and an active participation with the American Baptist Churches, USA. The ministry includes a Day Care Center and a deep concern for today's spiritual needs in the total community which First Baptist serves.

About Our Pastor

Pastor Joel R. Fredrikson came to join First Baptist Church, Ottawa, in February, 2005.

After graduating from Ottawa University in 1975, Joel served as Youth Director in First Baptist Church, Wichita.  He earned his seminary degree from Bethel Seminary in St. Paul, MN.  Joel went on to serve churches in St. Paul; Turner, KS.; and Mapleton, MN.  Joel and his wife Jan have two grown sons, Levi and Jacob.  Joel and Jan are truly a minstering couple, freely sharing God's love.