Honouring Unity Health’s shared history with First Baptist Church

A shared legacy of healing and hope

At the corner of Queen and Victoria streets – where St. Michael’s Hospital, a site of Unity Health Toronto now stands – there’s a powerful story woven into the city’s history. It’s the story of resilience, care, and community.

In 1826, Elder Washington Christian, and 12 other survivors of the transatlantic slave trade who made their way to Toronto (then called York) via the Underground Railroad, established the First Baptist Church congregation (then called “Colored Calvinistic Baptist Church”). Fifteen years later, in 1841, they built their first church building on this land. It quickly became more than a place of worship. It was a hub for anti-slavery and abolition efforts, where all could seek refuge and support.

Around the turn of the century, First Baptist Church sold the land and relocated. Years later, the Sisters of St. Joseph built St. Michael’s Hospital near this intersection, later expanding to Queen and Victoria St.

Now, nearly 200 years since its establishment, First Baptist Church continues to care for all who enter its doors – just as St. Michael’s Hospital and all of Unity Health Toronto’s sites work to heal the mind, body and soul of every patient who walks through our doors. By acknowledging our shared history and values, we are honouring our past with the hope of building a better, more inclusive future for care.

Slide

First Baptist Church’s vision was clear:

Build a Church to provide spiritual care and community to all those in need.

Located in Toronto

1826

FBC was created

Positively contributes to society

175+

Years of FBC service

Slide

“This land at the corner of Queen and Victoria has been a place of healing for a long, long time. The First Baptist congregation practiced spiritual healing at this very location in 1841. We continue to heal souls to this day at our church.”

– Rev. Dr. Wendell Gibbs, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church

Slide

Unity Health is proud to continue the legacy:

To provide a place that supports all in need.

World-class care

1892

Opened in 1892

551 total beds

130+

130+ years of service

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Slide

“We’re embracing this shared journey, caring for this land and using it for healing, building community, and creating a welcoming space for everyone.”

– Dr. Tim Rutledge, President and CEO of Unity Health Toronto

Land Acknowledgement to be added once approved