The First Baptist Church of East Moline, Illinois began in a railroad Chapel Car on a siding by the East Moline Railroad Depot in downtown East Moline. The church was formally organized on June 8, 1913 with 32 charter members. The congregation met in various places over the next four years before purchasing property at 18th Avenue and 9th Street, East Moline. This first building was dedicated on June 8, 1918, under the leadership of Rev. J.M. Osborne. On January 25, 1970, the last service was held in this building. On February 1, 1970, the congregation worshipped in its new building and present location at 4021 9 ½ street, East Moline. The building and parsonage on this nine-acre parcel of land was purchased from St. John’s Lutheran Church in 1968 for $260.00. Rev. Raymond Carter was pastor during this critical, but significant transition. The congregation has experienced growth, a gradual but healthy increase over the past several decades. Various ministries of outreach have always been a strength; among these are a ladies quilting group which produces layettes for nursing home patients, caps for cancer patients, quilts for shut-ins and the sick. A women’s group and men’s group are active in supporting mission activities in the denomination and community. This congregation also participates in several joint events with other churches in the community – Community Good Friday Service, Baccalaureate Service at the United Township High School, an annual Singabration combined choirs, The First Day Fund, which gives free school supplies to needy students and annual appreciation luncheon of local fire, police, and ambulance workers. Numerous renovations and improvements have made including the installation of an elevator in 1999. The church family continues experiencing a steady increase of both numerical and spiritual growth under the present pastoral leadership of Rev. Danny Yeager. An endowment is being established by the congregation, with the help of the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend to assist the church community. Earnings form invested funds will be used to support mission work in East Moline, the community and the world in general. Church programming will also benefit from interest income for evangelism, witness, camp, and college scholarships, spiritual renewal, and ministry as well as facility improvements. “ The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord lift His countenance upon you. The Lord be gracious unto you and give you His peace. Amen”

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