Prior to 1985: Originally named St. John's Baptist Church, First Baptist Institutional Church is the oldest Black church in Lakeland.  It was established in 1885 and located in the first Black settlement known as Moorehead.

In 1920, the church's name was changed from St. John's Baptist Church to First Baptist Institutional Church.  Two years later, a new church was built on North Dakota Avenue--now Dr. MLK Drive.

From November 1971 to February 1972, church services were held at Rochelle High School Auditorium during while the church was under reconstruction.  After that, worship was held in the basement of the unfinished building.

On August 11, 1974, the first worship in

Rev Alex Harper Sr

Peter Gant

1884 - 1906

HR Moorehead

1906 - 1916

William Smith

1916 - 1920

HL Stephens

1920 - 1955

JE Harris

1955 -1957

Paul Jackson

1958 -