Toronto's oldest Black institution marks 200 years

First Baptist Church in Toronto, founded in 1826 and described as the city's oldest Black institution, is marking its 200th anniversary and will host a Black History Month service on Feb. 15.

First Baptist Church in Toronto is marking its 200th anniversary in 2026 and is reflecting on two centuries of community life. The church traces its founding to 1826 and is known as the city's oldest Black institution. It began as the Coloured Calvinistic Baptist Church, formed by 12 men and women who had escaped slavery and were led by Washington Christian. The congregation moved to its present Chinatown location in 1955 and today includes a diverse membership. Key details: - Founded in 1826 and described as older than Canada. - Began as the Coloured Calvinistic Baptist Church, led by Washington Christian, a former slave from Virginia. - The first site was at Queen and Victoria streets, where St. Michael's Hospital now stands. - The church has been at its Chinatown location since 1955 and has preserved historical relics such as a burned brick and an early communion set. - The congregation is now diverse and has long served immigrants and Black communities, including arrivals from Nova Scotia in the 1960s. - The church will host a special Black History Month service on Feb. 15 as part of its bicentennial observance. Summary: The bicentennial underscores First Baptist Church's long role as a place of worship and community for people who came north via the Underground Railroad and for later generations. The congregation is marking that legacy while preparing a special service on Feb. 15 to reflect on its 200-year history.