The history of Kilmarnock Baptist Church (KBC) is one of perseverance, mission and faith in God’s provision.
Baptists first gathered in Kilmarnock in 1830s, but by the 1840s, meetings had ceased. It wasn’t until the 1850s, the church was reestabilished and by 1866 KBC was formally constituted with the church building on Old Mill Road completed in 1869. As the congregation grew, members of KBC played important roles in panting Cumnock Baptist Church and Ayr Baptist Church as well as mission work in Canada.
From its earliest days, KBC had a heart for both gospel mission and practical help. The church was based on Old Mill Road to serve the mill workers and their families along with the sorrounding area which was a poorer community in the late 19th century. Seeking to share the good news of Jesus in both word and deed.
Into the 20th and 21st century KBC has played an important role in the fabric of Kilmarnock. Sharing the gospel, upholding biblical truth and sending members to the mission field.
Like many churches in Scotland, KBC faced challenges in recent years as secularism grew in society. By 2021 numbers had declined, but after years of faithful prayer, God brought renewal – strength in the faith of the believers and bringing new growth to the church.
Today, Kilmarnock remains a town with significant areas of deprecation following the decline of local industry. In 2024, our church building became structurally unsafe,leading us to relocate our services from the town centre to the south of Kilmarnock, an areas called Shortlees. Shortlees has many families and young people, with a great community spirit. For the many years now it has not had a church or consistent gospel witness. It is also among one of ht most deprived areas in Scotland, and we believe God has led us there fo a purpose.
In many ways, we are returning to our roots – without a perminant building but with a clear sense of mission. As we seek God’s will, we remain commited to sharing the gospel and serving our community in Word, prayer and action.
We may not know exactly what the future holds, but we trust the One who does.