A Visit to Toronto’s First Black Church: Happy Black History Month

The front of a church with snow on the ground

Faith is a huge part of Black culture. On the last Sunday of Black History Month, I took the liberty of visiting Toronto’s first Black church and establishment—First Baptist Church.

It was a true jubilee. Rev. Dr. Wendell Gibbs's message was powerful and deeply moving. He reminded us of our identity in Christ, declaring, “Black history didn’t begin with slavery or emancipation but in the Genesis beginning.”

He also spoke of “The anguish of our ancestors… those who died [so we could have] peace… May humanity never again perpetrate such injustice against humanity. [And] we… vow[ed] to uphold this.”

The service reached a pivotal moment when the congregation joined the choir in singing:

I’m no longer a slave to fear
I am a child of God.

Founded in 1826 by formerly enslaved people who sought refuge in Canada, First Baptist Church has long stood as a pillar of the Black community. While the original congregation laid its foundation nearly two centuries ago, the current building, completed in 1955, continues to carry forward a legacy of resilience, faith, and hope.

Lest we forget—Black History is every month. Every day, we make history.

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