First Baptist Dallas held a groundbreaking ceremony Sunday for the reconstruction of its historic sanctuary, nearly two years after a devastating fire destroyed the 136-year-old landmark in downtown Dallas.
The July 19, 2024, four-alarm blaze gutted the Victorian-style red brick building at the church’s main campus near San Jacinto Street and Ross Avenue. No one was injured, but the fire left only the exterior walls standing. Church leaders and members gathered for a special service followed by the ceremony outside the preserved walls, which are now stabilized with scaffolding.
The $130 million project will retain the original exterior while creating a completely new interior with updated features, including a redesigned steeple, 16 new stained-glass windows depicting biblical stories, expanded lobby and basement event space, and red cushioned pews similar to the historic design. Officials aim to complete construction by Easter 2028. The new sanctuary will serve as a secondary worship and event space alongside the church’s larger 2013 Worship Center.
🏗️ Kids Cove is celebrating the Historic Sanctuary Groundbreaking on Sunday, June 7!
— First Baptist Dallas (@firstdallas) June 5, 2026
Join us during Sunday School at 9:15 & 11am! Every child will receive a hard hat, preschoolers will get an inflatable hammer, babies will receive bubbles, and everyone can enjoy donut holes! pic.twitter.com/NOxvbdpbeS
Senior Pastor Dr. Robert Jeffress and other leaders highlighted the church’s resilience and deep roots in downtown Dallas, which date back to 1868. Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson joined the groundbreaking, praising the congregation’s commitment to the community. Major donations, including gifts from Hobby Lobby CEO David Green and the Jim and Geneva Donald family, have helped close the funding gap, with insurance covering a significant portion and the church raising the remainder.
The milestone comes as downtown Dallas faces other changes, but church leaders affirmed their long-term presence in the heart of the city. The project is expected to support continued community events, weddings, funerals and worship services.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
