Historic Central Baptist Church Adopts New Public Name

JAMESTOWN, R.I., OCT. 2026 — After generations as Central Baptist Church, one of Jamestown’s longtime congregations has a new public name: Church at Four Corners. The new name seeks to better reflect the congregation people will find inside its doors.

The change follows months of conversation, reflection, and two congregational votes about the church’s future and how it presents itself to the community.

The congregation believes its former public name no longer tells the whole story of who it is. Church members recognized that, for many people today, the word Baptist carries assumptions about beliefs, politics, and social issues that do not necessarily reflect this congregation. Some members recall initially hesitating to visit because of the church’s name, only to discover a congregation very different from what they had expected.

Over the years, Central Baptist has become home to people from many faith traditions and backgrounds. At one point, 28 different denominations were represented within the congregation. The church describes itself as a place where questions are welcomed, differences are respected, and people do not have to think alike to worship and serve together. Its longtime motto is “Open Doors, Open Minds, Open Hearts.”

The congregation is also becoming a member of the Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists (AWAB), reflecting its commitment to the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ people in church life.

The church will remain affiliated with the American Baptist tradition. American Baptist congregations are autonomous, allowing each local church to determine its own ministry and direction.

The new name comes from the church’s location at Jamestown’s four-way stop, the only one on the island. It also carries a broader meaning: a crossroads where people from different backgrounds, traditions, and paths come together.

Church leaders acknowledge that the decision has not been easy for everyone. For longtime members, the Central Baptist name carries history, family connections, and deep affection. The congregation intends to honor that history as it moves forward.

Ultimately, members believe the new public name will help more people get to know the church and the community they will find inside.

Church at Four Corners

Open Doors, Open Minds, Open Hearts