• First Baptist Dallas plans groundbreaking ceremony for new sanctuary.
• The historic sanctuary was destroyed in a fire nearly two years ago.
• The church is raising $95 million for the rebuilding effort and for missions.

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Nearly two years after First Baptist Dallas' historic sanctuary was destroyed in a fire, the megachurch has announced plans for a groundbreaking ceremony for the new building.

Pastored by Robert Jeffress, the 16,000-member First Baptist Dallas has been in rebuilding mode since a four-alarm fire caused significant damage and a roof collapse in July 2024. 

The blaze destroyed the nearly 150-year-old worship space but miraculously spared the original pulpit. Founded in 1890, the church has been a cornerstone in Southern Baptist life, often described as the "Notre Dame" of the denomination. 

While arson was ruled out, investigators said in September 2024 the cause of the fire would "remain undetermined."

After the fire, First Baptist Dallas launched its most significant fundraising effort ever, Mission 18, to bring its new vision to life by raising $95 million to support both the new sanctuary and other church ministries.

On Palm Sunday, as the congregation gathered to mark the start of Holy Week, church leadership announced that on June 7, they will gather for Groundbreaking 2026, which will be a “special milestone” in the now two-year rebuilding effort. “This meaningful moment marks the beginning of a new chapter as we look ahead to what God will continue to do through First Baptist Dallas!” an event page on the church’s website stated.

In early March, Senior Executive Pastor Ben Lovvorn announced construction was already underway on a new tunnel connecting the church lobby with the fountain plaza to allow the congregation easier and safer access as temporary walls continue to go up around the site.

"You might ask, 'Well, why is that tunnel there?' Well, we're going to begin some new construction to integrate the new facility, the new sanctuary, with our existing facility,” said Lovvorn in a video update. “And that includes some demolition of what is already in place."

In January 2025, the church announced plans to spend $26 million on the new sanctuary, an effort that includes preserving the historic stained glass windows long associated with First Baptist Dallas.

In October 2024, First Baptist Dallas unveiled plans to reconstruct its historic sanctuary. The proposed designs feature a larger steeple reminiscent of the original structure and plans for restored stained glass windows that will enhance the worship space.

"The steeple has been a symbolic cornerstone for our church, reminding us that Jesus Christ is our true cornerstone," Lovvorn said at the time.

The new sanctuary will also include an elevated floor and a redesigned pulpit, which will be oriented on the north side of the building. Lovvorn previously said he hopes the change will create a more welcoming atmosphere for worshipers while incorporating modern amenities, including an expanded fellowship space, a grand staircase and a new multi-purpose venue beneath the sanctuary.

News Source : https://www.christianpost.com/news/first-baptist-dallas-announces-groundbreaking-for-new-sanctuary.html