“To transform people’s lives through God’s love.” That’s the powerful mission of Dellcrest Church of Christ. This church has a rich history in San Antonio. It started with a simple idea.
In 1951 some members of West Laurel Street Church of Christ lived far away. They traveled a long distance to worship. Alvin Davis and C. F. Richardson wanted to change that. Both men were members of West Laurel Street church. They talked about starting a new church on San Antonio’s east side.
The West Laurel Street brethren supported the idea. They chose four men to organize the new church. C. F. Richardson became the minister. Abraham Davis became treasurer. Olester Burnley became the secretary. Alvin Davis took care of material needs. The new congregation was called East Side Church of Christ.
Brother C. F. Richardson served as minister until December 26, 1967. During his time the church grew. It gained about 200 members. This number did not include military members, children, or those who had passed away.
After Brother Richardson left Brother Louis Blair preached. He served from December 1967 to February 1969. Brother Blair helped the church choose a new minister. Twenty-six new members joined during his service.
In February 1969 Brother Roosevelt Sams became the minister. He was a dedicated man. He served with his wife Izetta Sams and their daughters. Brother Sams served until his retirement in February 1990. During his 21 years the church achieved much. It relocated to a new building because it had grown so much.
In 1986 Coliseum Park relocated. It moved to 1550 South W. W. White Road. At that time the church became Dellcrest Church of Christ. After Brother Sams retired Brother Bruce Johnson became minister. He served with his wife Shelia and their children. Brother Johnson had been an associate minister since 1989. He preached via radio and television. During his time Roosevelt Sams and Harrell Holmes were ordained elders.
Brother Johnson resigned in December 1991. Brother B.B. Gatson I succeeded him in February 1992. With his wife Ramona and family Brother Gatson led the church. The congregation experienced many achievements. His ministry ended in July 2004.
Brother Peter N. Martin followed. He served with his wife Nichelle. They began in December 2004. Brother Martin preached well. He led the church through challenges until December 2014. The church hosted the National Crusade for Christ in 2015. It was a great success. The gospel spread and over seventy people joined the church.
After a search Brother Jerry G. Houston became minister. He had over thirty years of experience. He came with his wife Debbie and their daughters Amber and Janae.
Dellcrest Church of Christ continues to seek and save the lost. Its mission is clear. It wants to evangelize equip and edify. It glorifies God and brings people to Jesus. It educates God’s people through preaching and Bible study. It helps those in need using their God-given talents. The future looks bright for Dellcrest Church of Christ.