In 1970 a song echoed in the heart of Dr Wendell Blair Sr. It was “I believe I’ll go back home”. This song led him back to Dallas his hometown. There he founded the True Vine of Holiness Missionary Baptist Church. This was the humble beginning of the True Vine Baptist South Mission Church.
The first service was held in a spare bedroom. Eight people attended. Later services moved to the living room then a converted house. Pastor Blair’s unwavering faith fueled the church’s growth. Within a year and four months a church building rose at 831 Ann Arbor. Four years later a second building opened at 6728 Altaire Ave.
This wasn’t just about bricks and mortar. It was about community. It was about Pastor Blair’s dedication. It was about answered prayers. Pastor Blair’s life was a testament to faith. He overcame a high school dropout status. He earned his GED and a theology degree. He even received an honorary doctorate. His ministry spanned nearly 50 years. He preached over 2600 sermons. He traveled extensively both nationally and internationally.
The True Vine Baptist South Mission Church stands as a tribute to him. It’s a place where countless lives were touched. It’s a place where faith blossomed. It’s a place where a song led to a legacy. The church continues to serve Dallas. It stands as a powerful symbol of faith perseverance and community spirit. It’s more than just a building. It’s a living testament to the power of belief. It’s a vibrant center of faith hope and love in Dallas.