About the Presidents' Class
Our History
The Presidents' Class was born out of First Baptist Dallas's unique ministry in the heart of downtown. In 1986, Dr. W. A. Criswell envisioned a Sunday School class to reach the CEOs and executives in the surrounding buildings — men he had come to know through Dallas civic life and his daily visits to the nearby YMCA. Many were unchurched, their lives consumed by work, and Dr. Criswell believed the church could support them spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.
The class launched in 1986 under the gifted Dr. Charles Lowery, meeting with about 30 people at the Dakotas Restaurant across the street. It grew steadily — moving to the Fairmont Hotel, then onto the church campus, eventually reaching a membership of over 220. Over time the class expanded well beyond its executive origins, drawing members from all ages, walks of life, and ethnic backgrounds, though the name stuck as a nod to its founding purpose.
The class has been blessed with exceptional teachers, including Dr. Alan Streett (2002–2018) and Dr. Barry McCarty, who led the class through the COVID pandemic via Zoom. In 2021, Dr. Paige Patterson became teacher, and the class has grown steadily since, adding 43 new members.
Today the Presidents' Class meets at CenterStage at 10:45 on Sunday mornings — a place of in-depth Bible study, genuine fellowship, and a family spirit. Members are connected through Care Groups and share in one another's joys and sorrows throughout the year. All are welcome!
Current Teacher
Dr Paige Patterson - 2021 to Present
Dr. Patterson brings more than four decades of experience in theological education, having served as president of Criswell College, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Alongside his wife Dorothy, he has ministered in more than 135 countries and has been instrumental in church planting movements across multiple states. We are honored to have him lead The Presidents' Class in verse-by-verse study of God's Word.
Former Teachers
Charles Lowery 1986–1990
David Lanier 1991–1992
Michael Gabbert 1993–1994
David Hamilton 1995–1996
George Davis 1996–2001
Alan Streett 2002–2018
Everett Berry 2018–2019
Barry McCarty 2020–2021
Our Church
The Presidents' Class meets as part of the Sunday morning worship experience at First Baptist Church Dallas, one of the largest and most historic Baptist congregations in America. Founded in 1868, FBC Dallas is located in the heart of downtown Dallas and is committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the proclamation of the Gospel.
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