About Us

Our History

On May 7, 1961 a group of 117 Christians met together in the West Haven Library and formally constituted the West Haven Baptist Church. They immediately sought affiliation with the Knox County Association of Baptists, Tennessee Baptist Convention, and the Southern Baptist Convention. Rev. John Ellenburg was the first pastor. The property for the first building was secured and erected at 4408 Oak Ridge Highway. The first service in the new building was held on the first Sunday in October 1961. On April 10, 1981, the State of Tennessee purchased the facility for a new interstate bypass. In December of 1980 the church voted to buy 8.8 acres between Matlock Road and McKamey Road. The first service was held in our current facilities on March 25, 1985.

Christ reached out to people of all ages and backgrounds and at West Haven Baptist Church we desire to do the same. That's why you'll discover here ministries geared to various life stages and needs. That's why we have a place for everyone to study the Scriptures, fellowship together, and minister to others through numerous service opportunities.

Our Purpose

West Haven Baptist church exists to share Jesus Christ with and bring people to Jesus and membership in His family, to develop mature believers who are equipped to minister as part of the ongoing mission of their Lord and His church, in order to magnify God's name.

We want you to be a part of the blessings of God in the life of our church. We'll bring you updates often on just what's happening at West Haven Baptist Church and share the stories of how Christ is making a difference in people's lives.