The First Baptist Church in Columbus, Indiana was designed by an American architect, Harry Mohr Weese in 1965. It is located at 3300 Fairlawn Drive with 7.1 acres campus. Initially this church was fenced with walnut trees along with two story building and a small hill. The building is perfect masterpiece of modern architecture.
The building is divided into fellowship hall, office wing, chapel, sanctuary and narthex. The entrance of the church is sanctuary which does not have any windows. It has high steep roof and pink brick walls covered with hand laid slate. Cross is suspended centrally which has perfect combination of skylight. Entire church is constructed on two levels (landscapes) utilizing natural grade, around open courtyard. Dan Kiley was the designer who came up with landscape architecture. Many visitors relate the design of the church with Darth Vader's helmet. The church is easily visible from residential suburbs owing to its structure and skyline in the sky. The church has non dimensional peaked bell tower, which changes entire surrounding to worship place.
The designing and structural fees were contributed by a privately owned organization, whose prime motive was to increase quality and standard of Columbus, Indiana City. This organization has played a vital role in increasing art and architectural beauty in Columbus. The first School established by the church was in 1857 which handled all religious activities. The first young people’s organization was established in 1885 which happened to be the predecessor of present American Youth Community. The initial Auxiliary Community established was called as The Women Aid Society, and is still functional under American Association of Women Baptist. “Yoke Fellows” is the term given by Youth minister for these organizations. Second minister was incorporated in the staff from 1965. Youth Minister Richard Crowley was the first minister and an Associate Pastor. Third minister was added to the staff in 1976. The first ever Minister of Worship and Music was Rev. James Eckert.
J. W. Robinson was the first pastorate to serve the church. The pastorate for longest period of time was George T. King (1924 - 1939) serving for 14 1/2 years and the pastorate for shortest period of time was for six months. Till today 42 pastors have served the church brilliantly.
