Expert: Bruce Gourley - 8/6/2007

Question
I have a simple question. I would like to know the year the baptists church began as a regonized religion.

Thank you

Answer
Hello Kimberly,

Most Baptist historians point to a congregation in Holland founded in 1608/09 (the exact founding is uncertain) as the first Baptist congregation. A handful of historians seek to locate Baptist beginnings prior to that time.

While 1608/09 is the accepted beginning of Baptists, the bigger story of Baptist beginnings is quite complicated. If you wish, you can find more information at http://www.baptisthistory.org/baptistbeginnings.htm

I hope this helps.

Bruce Gourley
www.baptistlife.com
www.brucegourley.com