It all began on November 8, 1958, when a group of 48 believers gathered at the Lion’s Den in Palatka, Florida, with a shared dream — to plant a new church where people in the growing community could worship, serve, and grow together in faith. Guided by Rev. Marvin Stedham, District Missionary, and Rev. Kenneth Hansen, pastor of First Baptist Church Palatka, the group took the first steps toward that dream. From that meeting, the College Park Baptist Chapel was born as a mission sponsored by the First Baptist Church.

After exploring several possible sites, the group chose an eleven-acre piece of land along what was then the Gainesville Highway — today known as Crill Avenue. Members quickly got to work, clearing brush, fixing up an old home on the property, and preparing it for use. In January 1961, the group held its very first prayer meeting and dedication service in that simple dwelling. It was a humble beginning filled with hope, faith, and fellowship.

With a $10,000 loan from the Florida State Mission Board, plans for a permanent church building began to take shape. On September 10, 1961, members gathered once again, this time for a joyful groundbreaking ceremony.

Over the next two years, everyone pitched in — the men worked evenings and weekends to build the structure, while the ladies provided meals and encouragement. It was truly a family effort, rooted in love and teamwork.

That same year, the first Sunday School was organized with 69 in attendance and 50 charter members. The following summer, in June 1962, the church hosted its first Vacation Bible School, welcoming 87 children and averaging 71 attendees each day. These early programs helped the mission grow, both in spirit and in numbers.

By the end of 1962, the members knew it was time to call a full-time pastor. In August 1963, Rev. W. T. Newsome Jr. answered that call. Under his leadership, the mission thrived — the new building was completed, ministries expanded, and the congregation continued to grow in faith and fellowship.

On September 12, 1965, surrounded by family, friends, and community members, the mission officially became College Park Baptist Church. With about 200 people gathered for the organizational service, the church joined the Southern Baptist Convention and the St. John’s River Baptist Association, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its story.

Original Charter: September 12, 1965