Our History

The mission of FBC Watsonville is the same mission Jesus gave his followers: Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 
The vision of FBC Watsonville is create a community of authentic believers and to witness a city transformed by the life changing reality of the gospel, as people come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. 
FBC Watsonville has had a vital presence in our community for over 100 years.  Our story started in a tent erected to hold meetings where we could preach the Gospel.  It was officially born Aug. 21, 1914, as 25 charter members dedicated themselves to establishing a church.  From our first, simple wood-sided building, to our current facility, we’ve been gathering together week-in and week-out for over a century.  All that time, the core of our ministry has not changed:  preaching the gospel, teaching God’s Word, and responding in worship.

God has been faithful and good to FBC.  He has blessed us with buildings, resources, and faithful people.  He has used the ministries of FBC to touch thousands of lives, both here in Watsonville and around the world.  We have been preaching and teaching, praying and singing, and declaring the Gospel of Jesus Christ for all those many decades.  And we are dedicated to continuing that great heritage.

For 100 years, God has been busy here.  He has accomplished so much more than those first 25 members could have imagined and we believe He has more that He intends for the years to come.  To God be the glory for the things He has done and for the things He will continue to do, in and through the First Baptist Church of Watsonville.

Click below for more history and testimonies from our Centennial Video