The Historic First African Baptist Church of Savannah,GA

The Historic First African Baptist Church of Savannah,GA The oldest continuous historically Black congregation in North America. Under the leadership of the 3rd Pastor Reverend Andrew C. Campbell. Additionally, Rev.
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First African Baptist Church was organized in 1773 under the leadership of Reverend George Leile and constituted in December of 1777 as a body organized believers. Marshall, the congregation obtained the property where the present sanctuary stands. Marshall also organized the first black Sunday school in North America and changed the name of the church from “First Colored Baptist” to “First Africa

n Baptist”. The sanctuary was completed in 1859 under the direction of the 4th Pastor Reverend William J. The ceiling of the church is in the design of a “Nine Patch Quilt” which was symbolic of the church being a safe house for runaway slaves. Beneath the lower auditorium floor is a finished sub-floor known as the “Underground Railroad”. There is 4ft of height between both floors. The holes in the floor are in the shape of an African prayer symbol known as a Congolese Cosmogram that served a purpose of ventilation. First African Baptist Church has been a place of leadership and service since its inception. Reverend Emmanuel King Love, 6th Pastor, led the movement to establish Savannah State University, formerly known as Georgia State Industrial College for Colored Youth. Love played a major role in the establishment of Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA, Paine College in Augusta, GA and Central City College formerly in Macon, GA. During the time of segregation the Rev. Dr. Ralph Mark Gilbert led the movement on civil rights in Savannah, GA. First African Baptist Church served in many capacities one being the largest place in the city for blacks and whites to gather. Visitors from all walks of life have visited our sanctuary and left inspired. Join Us!!

This Father’s Day, we celebrated the fathers of First African Baptist Church and honored our oldest fathers, along with ...
06/21/2026

This Father’s Day, we celebrated the fathers of First African Baptist Church and honored our oldest fathers, along with the father with the most children.

As we reflected on the message, “Let the Lord Build the House,” we were reminded that every strong family begins with God at the center.

Happy Father’s Day! 💙🏡

06/21/2026

TUNE IN @ 4:00PM!

A special thank you to WSAV News 3 and anchor Kim Gusby for welcoming our pastor, Rev. Thurmond N. Tillman, to Community...
06/17/2026

A special thank you to WSAV News 3 and anchor Kim Gusby for welcoming our pastor, Rev. Thurmond N. Tillman, to Community Corner to share the exciting things happening at Historic First African Baptist Church!

During the interview, Rev. Tillman discussed the historic $500,000 preservation grant awarded for the removal and restoration of our 150-year-old stained-glass windows. While we celebrate this major milestone, we continue our campaign to raise the remaining $116,000 needed to complete this important restoration project.

The conversation also highlighted the recent Golden Jubilee Revival, celebrating Rev. Tillman’s remarkable 50 years of preaching and proclaiming the Gospel. We reflected on a powerful weekend of worship, fellowship, and community celebration.

As we commemorate our 249th Church Anniversary, we are honored to travel to Galveston, Texas, for Juneteenth celebrations while looking ahead with excitement and anticipation to our historic 250th Church Anniversary next year.

God’s Will • God’s Work • God’s Way

This past Sunday, First African Baptist Church proudly honored our 2026 graduates for their hard work, perseverance, and...
06/17/2026

This past Sunday, First African Baptist Church proudly honored our 2026 graduates for their hard work, perseverance, and accomplishments. Through every late night, challenge, and milestone, God has remained faithful.

As these graduates step into their next chapter, we pray that they continue to walk boldly in purpose, lead with faith, and trust God’s plan for their lives.

Join us in congratulating our graduates and praying for their future endeavors. The best is yet to come!

FutureLeaders FirstAfricanBaptist

What a powerful and spirit-filled Golden Jubilee Revival at Historic First African Baptist Church!On this culminating th...
06/14/2026

What a powerful and spirit-filled Golden Jubilee Revival at Historic First African Baptist Church!

On this culminating third day, Rev. Mark Baker delivered an inspiring message reminding us that God is opening doors in this season, and we must be prepared when those doors open. His message challenged us to remain faithful, ready, and willing to walk into the opportunities God has ordained for us.

This revival also marked the culmination of 50 years of faithful preaching, teaching, and proclaiming the Gospel by our beloved Pastor, Rev. Thurmond N. Tillman. We thank God for his unwavering commitment to God’s Word and his dedication to leading countless souls to Christ over the past five decades.

As we reflect on this Golden Jubilee celebration, we rejoice in all that God has done, all that He is doing, and all that He has yet to do.

God’s Will • God’s Work • God’s Way



06/14/2026

TUNE IN @ 10 AM

06/13/2026

TUNE IN FOR NIGHT 2 @ 6:00PM

Join us tonight as we continue celebrating 50 years of faithful preaching, teaching, and ministry by our beloved Pastor,...
06/13/2026

Join us tonight as we continue celebrating 50 years of faithful preaching, teaching, and ministry by our beloved Pastor, Rev. Thurmond N. Tillman.

This evening’s Preacher Kids Concert will feature worship, music, and words of encouragement from those who have been impacted by ministry and called to serve. Come expecting a powerful night of praise, reflection, and gratitude as we honor God’s faithfulness through the years.

📅 Saturday, June 13, 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM
📍 Historic First African Baptist Church

“To God be the glory for 50 years of Word and Witness!”

PreacherKidsConcert GodsWillGodsWorkGodsWay FABChurchSavannah

Address

23 Montgomery Street
Savannah, GA
31401

Telephone

+19122336597

Website

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