Hobby Lobby founder and CEO David Green has given $7 million to help rebuild the sanctuary at First Baptist Dallas, a significant step in the church’s $95 million fundraising effort. The donation comes 18 months after a devastating fire destroyed the historic 134-year-old building in July 2024.
A Transformative Gift Following a Tragic Loss
The four-alarm blaze collapsed the sanctuary roof and damaged nearby structures, leaving the congregation without its main worship space. Despite this, First Baptist Dallas, founded in 1868 and home to over 16,000 members, continued to grow and was recently voted “best church” in the Dallas–Fort Worth metro area. The donation arrives as the church prepares for a 2026 groundbreaking on its new facility.
David Green’s Support and Vision
Senior Pastor Robert Jeffress announced the donation during a Sunday service, crediting Green’s admiration for the church’s global ministry. Initially, Green offered a $7 million matching grant. However, he later transformed it into an upfront donation after seeing strong internal support. Jeffress recalled, “David recognized First Baptist Church is not just any local congregation. It has a worldwide ministry.”
A Congregational Response to a Challenge
After Green presented his matching challenge, Jeffress shared the opportunity with church members. The next morning, a family in the congregation pledged the full match amount, bringing the total to $14 million. Jeffress emphasized the significance of this moment, noting how both external and internal supporters aligned to fund the reconstruction effort.
Supporters Praise, Critics Question Priorities
Supporters of the donation applaud Green’s decision, calling it a faith-driven investment in evangelism. They argue the gift will revitalize a prominent religious institution with international reach. But detractors question the decision to fund an already wealthy megachurch rather than address more urgent local needs, such as poverty or education. Some also note Hobby Lobby’s typical focus on international giving, raising concerns about a potential shift in priorities.
Modernizing the Historic Church Campus
Jeffress shared plans for expanded facilities, including a new escalator and staircase to link church levels. Reconstruction of the sanctuary alone will cost approximately $27 million, and church leaders are optimistic that the remaining funds will follow.
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Hobby Lobby’s David Green Gives $7M to Help Reconstruct Fire-Ravaged First Baptist Dallas
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