150-year-old church
The historic 150-year-old First Baptist Church of Birmingham, 300 Willits, returned to in-person worship on Sunday, September 12 with not only a renewed sense of purpose, but with a new name. The church, in its iconic English gothic sanctuary, is now known as Sanctuary, Pastor Scott Runyon announced a name chosen to reflect the congregation’s identity as a “safe place to explore faith.” Runyon said the new name was chosen to reflect the congregation’s core commitments and values. “We want the community to know that this church is a safe place for all people to explore the important questions of life including faith and spiritual matters, in the context of a supportive and loving community, and we believe that makes a difference.” The church continues its long-standing commitment to social justice in its support of a variety of humanitarian, diversity, economic empowerment, environmental conservation and disaster relief efforts through its associations with Judson Center in Royal Oak, Friendship House in Hamtramck, and Freedom House in Detroit, while also expanding its involvement with and support of innovative local, national and international organizations.
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