“Reconciliation.” That single word encapsulates much of the history of White Rock Fellowship. This church has a story that stretches back through times of division. It extends to an inspiring legacy of unity.
White Rock Fellowship stands as a testament to faith. It embodies hope and love. It is a legacy that began during the Civil War. Plantation owners in North Texas allowed white preachers to hold services. These services were for enslaved people.
Several churches emerged from those early meetings. These churches were in the Upper White Rock area. The families bought land. They wanted to build homes, farms, churches, and cemeteries.
In 1884, the families of White Rock Chapel C.M.E. Church bought land near White Rock Creek. They built their first church. It was made of rough-hewn logs. They worshipped there for thirty-four years.
Devastating flash floods plagued the area. The floods swept away a family and church records. So, in 1918 the congregation moved to higher ground. A white landowner donated the land.
The landowner was S.S. Noell. He often worshipped with the White Rock Chapel congregation. The church was renamed Christian Chapel C.M.E. Church. This honored an earlier pastor.
Over the years, the church faced many challenges. A storm destroyed the frame church. A new, larger church was built. Then, in 1960, a fire destroyed the church. Arson was suspected.
The congregation worshipped in the parsonage for 21 years. A division occurred within the congregation. Most relocated. But a small group remained. They reorganized as an independent church. They called it White Rock Chapel.
After years of legal battles, the Texas Supreme Court ruled in favor of White Rock Chapel. In 1981, a new brick White Rock Chapel was built. This became the third church building on the site.
Today, White Rock Fellowship continues this legacy. It stands as a beacon. It shows what can be achieved through reconciliation. White Rock Fellowship celebrates faith, hope and love.
White Rock Fellowship services are held every Sunday morning. You can come at 9:00 a.m. or 10:30 a.m.. You can learn about following Jesus. It does not matter what your age is.