The Community Arts Program has existed at First Baptist Church since 1998. In that year, a significant remodeling project was completed to create a flexible community venue as well as a place of worship.

As part of the mission of First Baptist Church of Kalamazoo, we seek to offer a place in downtown Kalamazoo for the presentation of, and education in the arts. Our goals include attracting people to the downtown area, collaborating with other arts organizations to promote and present events to the community, and sponsoring events.

We believe we are all called by God to develop and utilize our varied gifts to benefit the larger community.  At First Baptist Church, we endeavor to share our facilities and other gifts with this goal in mind.  This manifests itself in many ways, including the Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry, Soup Kitchen (serving Ministry With Community), collecting items for a transitional housing facility, participating in the Reading Together program, and in our unique outreach in the arts, embodied in part in our Community Arts Program.  By providing a versatile venue with fine acoustics to the community for arts presentations and educational events, as well as presenting our own events, we share our gifts of facilities, personal service in hospitality, and creative ideas in programming and community collaborations.  This both brings our community together and stimulates creative activity.  In doing so this draws us closer to God and God's plan for human community on earth.

Over the past nine seasons, events have been presented at First Baptist Church through the Community Arts Program, with approximately 20,000 attendees. The fine Letourneau organ is joined by our new 9'2" Fazioli grand piano, enhancing this sanctuary's versatility as a performing space. For more information, contact the Community Arts Liaison, Elizabeth Start, either by email or phone at 345-2195, ext. 105.