The Third Baptist Church of Chicago was organized by founding Pastor Rev. Elmer L Fowler on March 8, 1963 in the home of Sister Lelia Kennerson along with a small band of charter members. The first worship service was held on Easter Sunday, April 14, 1963 at the John Foster Dulles School. Rev. Fowler selected the symbol of the "Holy Rood" for the church which represents the Three (3) Crosses of Calvary in the Christian Faith.
The Third Baptist Church of Chicago moved to its first location of tenure at 69th Street and Sangamon on the third Sunday in November of 1964.
In December of 1979, Pastor Elmer L Fowler led the Third Baptist Church of Chicago to its current location, 95th and Ashland (also Beverly Blvd. renamed Rev. Elmer L. Fowler Blvd.) Additional surrounding properties were acquired and renovated to become the Heritage Plaza, and the Life Center (educational and recreational space) was constructed in 2005.
Having organized and served the Third Baptist Church congregation for nearly 30 years, Rev. Fowler retired in December of 1992 and became Pastor Emeritus. On May 28, 2003, Rev. Elmer L Fowler went home to be with the Lord. Rev. Dr. Alan V. Ragland currently serves as the second pastor of the prestigious Third Baptist Church of Chicago.
