On a sweltering July day in 1957 fifteen or twenty men gathered. This was the first business meeting for the East Side Church of Christ. They met outdoors. There was no building yet. These dedicated men worked tirelessly. They cleared brush and prepared the ground. They were establishing the Lord’s church.
The East Side Church of Christ is more than a building. It’s a testament to faith. It’s a community built on shared beliefs and unwavering dedication. From its humble beginnings in 1957 the church has grown. It has witnessed countless lives touched by its message of hope.
Roy Jackson was the first minister. He shared the Good News. He showed others the way. Harvey followed. Then came Wayne Anderson succeeding Brother Scott. The church’s growth continued. Lanier was chosen in 1966. Johnny followed. Then Harrell replaced Ramsey ushering in the Davidson Days. The Wallers Al and Deen received a tremendous welcome. The 1970s saw the arrival of Bill Banks. Roper was a keeper staying until he could no longer speak. Hartman from Australia followed. Clay Bryant worked with the youth. Trent and Tanner also served. Dodgen and Mussett currently preach and teach. They follow the elders and most importantly the Lord.
The original building seated about 200 people. It was a small frame structure. It sat on ten acres of land. Some questioned if it would ever be full. They wondered about utilizing all that land. The church was five or six miles from Midwest City’s downtown. Tinker Air Force Base’s traffic flowed towards Oklahoma City.
Over the next twenty years remarkable things happened. The church grew beyond the initial small building. Hundreds of people participated in the Lord’s work at East Side. This church has seen joyful celebrations and times of sorrow. It has brought comfort and support to generations. The church’s impact stretches far beyond its walls. It continues to serve the community.
Today the East Side Church of Christ stands as a beacon of faith. It is a place of worship. It is a community hub. It offers spiritual guidance and fellowship. It continues to inspire hope and fulfill potential. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith and community. The future holds much work. But with unwavering faith East Side Church of Christ will continue its mission.