First Baptist Church of Port Tampa stands on Interbay Boulevard in the Port Tampa neighborhood of Tampa, a community church built around a single driving purpose: "Winning The Lost At Any Cost," a motto Pastor Bobby Ray Patton anchors in Matthew 28:19-20. The congregation gathers to glorify God the Father, Son, and Spirit by sharing the love of Christ and leading friends to salvation and into the fellowship of the local church.
Sunday Worship at 11:00 AM
The Sunday morning service runs from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM and is open to anyone who wants to join. Members and visitors enter and exit through the doors facing Interbay Boulevard, with side entrances reserved for those who need them. Tithing boxes are positioned at the front and back of the Sanctuary for offerings. One longtime member puts it simply: "My Christian family meets here! Great church. Great preacher" (Jerry Holloway).
Wednesday Nights in Bishop Hall
On Wednesday evenings at 7 PM, the adult Bible study meets in the Bishop Hall Building. The midweek gathering draws adults who want to dig deeper into Scripture between Sunday services.
First Saturday Community Prayer
On the first Saturday of each month, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, the church opens its doors for community prayer. Anchored in Hebrews 10:24-25, the gathering is a chance to stir up love and good works by assembling together.
Monthly Bible Studies for Men and Women
On the last Monday of each month, both men and women meet separately for Bible study. The men's group gathers to grow in relationship with Jesus Christ and to encourage one another as servant leaders in their families, church, and communities. The women's group gathers to encourage, support, and challenge one another to deepen their faith, develop their spiritual gifts, and become more effective disciples of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Bobby Patton and the Ministry Team
Pastor Bobby Ray Patton leads the congregation. Ron Lester serves as Chairman of the Deacons, and Sherry Connors serves as Treasurer and Church Clerk. The staff describes itself as dedicated and committed to serving the church and its neighbors.
A Place for Children and Families
The church offers Children's Church during the service, Sunday School for all ages, and a Children's Day Care for working families. Together they form the church's ministry to the next generation of Port Tampa.
What to Expect on a First Visit
First-time visitors are welcomed at 8306 Interbay Boulevard. On-site parking is available in the back of the church, including handicap parking. Dress is completely up to the visitor: men commonly wear jeans, suits, or polo shirts, and women wear dresses, pant suits, or jeans. The church's only request is that guests come willing to learn from God's Word and ready to worship Jesus Christ. A contact form, a phone line at (813) 839-2946, and an email at 1stbaptist.porttampa@gmail.com connect visitors with the office for prayer requests and questions.