Our Church History

In the early part of 1959, under the leadership of Reverend William Gardner, pastor of the first Baptist Church of Hollywood, Florida, it was discovered that a Baptist Church was desperately needed in the Driftwood acres area of West Hollywood Florida. Mr. Wiley Waldrep, a member of First Baptist Church of Hollywood, volunteered to donate two acres of land on Taft Street if a new Baptist Mission would be started there.

A mission committee was organized on September 16, 1959. They met and agreed to accept the land offered by Mr. Waldrep and started a mission called “Driftwood Acres Missions.” It was later changed to Taft Street Baptist Church. On Easter Sunday, April 3, 1960 the first preaching service was held with Pastor William Gardner leading the service. The first full-time pastor called was Reverend Vernon Perkins. He preached his first message on August 6, 1960.

In September 1983 on a step of faith, plans were underway for the construction of a new sanctuary. Through their love for the Lord, many dedicated members committed themselves for 18 months to give on a regular basis, over and above their tithes and offerings. In addition to their gift to the building funds, many people, in their love for the church, purchased all of the furniture and fixtures in the new sanctuary. On June 2, 1985 we moved into the new and current sanctuary.

On June 27, 2004 Pastor Albert Gerena was invited to preached at Taft Street Baptist church. On February 27, 2005 the church officially called him to be their pastor.

We are committed to faithfully teaching God's Word. Our aim is to develop biblical minds and hearts for Jesus.

Our mission statement is: 

We exist to Develop Hearts for God and His Kingdom through Biblical Truth and The Gospel of Jesus Christ.