Founded in 1963 North Florida Baptist Church has been on an exciting journey for many years. Our history includes a bold beginning as Pastor Rayburn Blair started this work with a handful of people back in 1963. The evidence of growth and vision is clear. Even more clear is the reality that God has a plan for Our Kingdom Future.
1963 – Temple Baptist Church’s first service
is preached by Founder/Pastor Rayburn Blair at the Jefferson Street
Community Center.
1965 – Ground is broken on the first church buildings
that eventually would include the main worship center at 3000
North Meridian Road.
1966 – First services are held in a new auditorium;
first classes are offered at the new North Florida Christian School.
1973 – As the church grows, a beautiful new sanctuary
is built to enhance the worship experience.
1976 – Committed to spreading the Good News of
the Gospel, the church broadcasts its services on a location television
station (WCTV).
1984 – To provide physical and spiritual nourishment
to men in need, the church begins the Haven of Rest Rescue Mission.
1988 – Church members raise the funds necessary
to purchase the ministry’s own television station (TV65BG).
1992 – Randy Ray is called as Pastor, moving
from Nashville to Tallahassee with his wife Jan and sons Nathan,
Matthew and Paul.
1993 - Church auditorium is completely remodeled
creating a new look for the ministry.
1997 – Even while making substantial capital
improvements, the church models good stewardship and becomes debt-free.
1999 – To reach the lost in Tallahassee, hundreds
of church members dedicate themselves to the FAITH Evangelism
outreach program.
2001 – Pastor Ray and the church play a lead
role in attracting and presenting the Franklin Graham Festival
in Tallahassee.
2003 - Work is completed on second remodel of
the church in ten years.
2005 – By a vote of the congregation, Temple
Baptist Church changes its name to North Florida Baptist Church.
2005 - Global Focus Missions brings a new emphasis
on missions to NFBC.
2005 - North Florida voted into Florida Baptist
Association and the Florida Baptist Convention.
2006 - Work is completed on a major exterior
remodel and addition to the church building.
2006 - Capital Campaign begins for a ministry
building to be built in the future.
2008 - North Florida Passion Play is inaugurated
with thousands attending the first year.
2008 to Present - North Florida Baptist Church
continues to reach across the street and around the world!
