The Aaron Renn Show Capitol Hill Baptist: 150 Years of Unchanging Faith | Caleb Morell
Sep 15, 2025
Caleb Morell, author of A Light on the Hill, dives into the fascinating 150-year journey of Capitol Hill Baptist Church in D.C. Founded by Civil War veterans, the church has remained a stronghold of orthodox faith amidst cultural changes. Morell highlights its pivotal role during the fundamentalist-modernist controversy and the challenges of urban life, including gentrification and a COVID-19 lawsuit. He discusses how under pastor Mark Dever, the church revitalized while committed to a singular worship model, showcasing resilience in the face of changing times.
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Unchanged Gospel In The Nation’s Capital
- Capitol Hill Baptist has remained in its original location and maintained orthodox evangelical doctrine since 1878.
- Caleb Morell sees it as a unique case study in the American church’s relationship with politics and culture.
Humble Lay Founding And Early Leaders
- Capitol Hill Baptist was founded by 31 local lay members after a prayer meeting called by Celestia Ferris.
- The church survived early splits and hosted national leaders like Greenclay Smith and long-serving pastor John Compton Ball.
Anchor During The Fundamentalist-Modernist Fight
- During the fundamentalist-modernist controversy, Capitol Hill Baptist led fundamentalist efforts inside the Northern Baptist Convention.
- The conservatives ultimately lost nationally, prompting the church’s later withdrawal and reliance on confessional standards.
