History of First Chinese Baptist Church
In 1854, the Southern Baptist Association commissioned J. Lewis Shuck to California to minister to the Chinese in Sacramento. They also sent with him, $300, in order to build a chapel for the new mission. One could not imagine a better qualified man; Reverend Shuck was fluent in Cantonese and had already established a school and two chapels in Hong Kong in the years prior to California.
When he and his wife arrived in Sacramento, Reverend Shuck soon had his plate full, preaching at the First Baptist Church (since they had just lost their pastor) and ministering to the Chinese. He preached every Sunday in both English and Cantonese, which eventually led to the baptizing of 15 Chinese believers at First Baptist Church. These 15 people would become the nucleus of the Chinese chapel that was built in 1855 on the corner of 6th and H Streets.
Through the years, God sent some of His choice servants to First Chinese Baptist Church in order to continue the mission of providing a spiritual home to the Chinese in Sacramento, passing the torch from generation to generation. Even though the church had to relocate many times, it eventually settled in its current location on Custis Avenue in 1959.
Our history is one of compassion and commitment. Courageous individuals committed to the heartbeat of God, went out of their way to reach the overlooked and the undervalued of society, ministering to a people group who at the time were not considered popular nor profitable. Yet, these early Chinese settlers were on the heart of God. Now, it is our turn, not only to pass this torch to the next generation, but to start a fire of revival that will overtake Sacramento for the kingdom and glory of God. Come join us on this adventure!
For the original historical write-up, click here.