Welcome to
First Sarasota

Thinking of planning a visit? Find out more info below.

Experience What God is Doing Here

We are a Christ-centered multigenerational church located in the heart of downtown Sarasota, and we would love to invite you to visit our family.

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Meet our Senior Pastor

Pastor Dr. John Cross

Dr. John Cross

Senior Pastor

Dr. John Cross became a follower of Jesus when he was 11 years old while at church camp. Just three years later, God began to tug on his heart with a call to the ministry.

By the age of 17, he began preaching. He is a graduate from Mercer University in 1986 and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity degree in 1990 and a Doctor of Ministry Degree in 2006. He was the President of the Florida Baptist Convention Pastors’ Conference in 1994. He was the President of the Florida Baptist State Convention in 2009 and 2010.

Over three decades he has served churches in Georgia, Florida, and Texas.

Why First Sarasota?

It's a place where everyone can belong.
Parker Family
The church is a pillar of faith for the community
Peggy Wilhelm
I love that it's so easy for me and my family to get involved.
Kelly Tignor

We are inspired every Sunday by Pastor John. He has the ability to deliver his sermon in a way that we are able to digest and act upon each week.

Brian & Sheila Serino
The message and the music are so engaging.
Hondo & Pat Sunquist
First Sarasota treats everyone like family.
Joe & Paige Cremin
Business Owners

We met at First Sarasota and love to watch other families grow.

Skip & Beth Martin

Directions

Address

Strategically and conveniently located in the heart of Sarasota at 1661 Main Street.