In February of 1979, Pastor Gary Hirth, under the compelling call of God to start a church in Ann Arbor, conducted the first service of Ann Arbor Baptist Church. Seven people were present for that first service, meeting in the home of John Burtt on a Wednesday night. Soon after, they began meeting on Sundays at the Ann Arbor Y. From the beginning, the emphasis of the church was on personal soul-winning, separated living, and strong Biblical preaching. Through the weekly visitation program, the church slowly, but steadily grew.
