Founded on May 11, 1872

Rev. Isaac Leonard (Great-uncle of Isaac Leonard of Iona) was asked by a deacon of the Congregational order to conduct the service, stating that there were a few Baptist families in the place and it was due time that they have a part in the service. For five years that arrangement continued, all parties uniting in the public worship of God every Lord’s Day and Union S.S. work after every morning service.
 
As the community grew and more hearts of like precious faith were drawn together, it became evident that an organized Baptist Church was essential for fellowship and service to further the Lord’s work. Consequently, Baptist friends assembled at the house of W. E. Morgan on May 11, 1872. After prayer, Articles of Faith found in the Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge were read and adopted by those present: Samuel B. Shapley, Harriet Shapley, James D. Mendum, Caroline A. Mendum, Marietta Shapley, Wallace E. Morgan, DeWitt Hemingway, Isaac Leonard, Charlotte Leonard, and Rebecca W. Ford. One deacon, three trustees, and a treasurer-clerk were elected and Isaac Leonard was asked to be pastor. Thus was the inception of the First Baptist Church of Newfield.