Fifty-four souls. That’s how it began. Fifty-four people gathered for their first worship service at Pine Shadows Elementary School. That was October 11 1959. This very spot you stand on now was once just 3.7 acres of wooded land. It’s hard to imagine isn’t it? This beautiful John Knox Presbyterian Church didn’t always exist.
Welcome to John Knox Presbyterian Church in Houston. Today we journey back to its humble beginnings. A petition was signed that Sunday. Thirty-seven signatures sealed the fate of a new church. They even had a temporary name Gessner Road Presbyterian Church. But a new name was soon to be adopted.
The name John Knox was chosen. A fitting tribute to the Scottish reformer. The dedication service was a joyous occasion. Sixty-one members joined from ten different churches. The Rev J Walter Dickson preached the sermon. Dr Charles W Shedd offered a dedicatory prayer. This was November 22 1959. John Knox Presbyterian Church was officially born.
But the story doesn’t end there. Life at John Knox was more than just Sunday services. Picnics and church-sponsored events thrived under the shade of those big trees. Their motto was Adventuring for Christ. Every Sunday evening they went out to invite new members. This sense of community was vital to the church’s growth.
A groundbreaking ceremony followed in 1961. It was a family affair. Rev Gary Jones the first permanent minister had the children break ground. The first service in the new building at 2525 N Gessner was held in April 27 1963. The roofline a unique design mimicked hands folded in prayer. The building seated 250 people. It also included twelve classrooms and a kitchen.
The church continued to grow. In 1971 pews and carpets replaced tile floors and folding chairs. A narthex was added in 1974. New offices a fellowship building and a new kitchen were built in 1978. Further renovations took place in 2005 and 2006 including a remodeled chancel and new hardwood pews. A beautiful Young Chang grand piano was gifted to the church in 2005.
Seven ministers have served John Knox since its inception. Two Christian educators Jeanne West and Sylvia Washer also left their mark. This church has been shaped by dedicated leaders and a faithful congregation. Its history is a testament to perseverance faith and community. So stand here. Reflect on this remarkable journey. This is John Knox Presbyterian Church a place of worship a beacon of faith a testament to the enduring power of community.