Here at Liberty Church, we see a vibrant community hub. Its mission is clear. Follow Jesus. Thrive in community. Make a difference.
Liberty Church emphasizes community. Community Groups are a key part of this. These groups meet weekly. They meet during three seasons each year. People experience discussions and friendships. They also find a sense of home.
Are you seeking a Bible study? Or maybe a business group? Perhaps a marriage and relationships group? Or even a social group? Liberty Church invites you. Go deeper in community with others.
The Fall 2019 Community Group season is a great example. It began the week of September 30th. It ended the week of December 2nd.
Now let’s travel back in time. We will explore the roots of a church with a similar name. This church shares a spirit of faith and community.
In 1850, Collin County was young. Eleven Christian pioneers gathered. They met at Brother Henry Cook’s log cabin. It was on White Rock Creek. They “constituted” Liberty Baptist Church.
Elder Eli Witt was one of the organizers. He served as the first pastor. He served from 1850 until 1856. Witt was a circuit pastor. He founded several churches in North Texas. He rode on horseback. He traveled through the wild prairie.
Liberty Church first met at Cook’s two-room cabin. This was north of Baccus Cemetery. It was at the corner of Bishop Road and Legacy Drive.
Later, a log church was built. It stood on prairie land. This is where the present church stands today. The address is 5701 W. Park Boulevard. This is west of Preston Road. The property was located on the Shawnee Trail. This was a major route for cattle drives.
J.F. Purcell owned the acreage. On February 20, 1886, he conveyed one acre. He sold it for ten dollars. The condition was that the property be used solely for church purposes. It was sold to the Trustees of Liberty Church.
A new white frame building was dedicated in 1885. It stood until it was razed in 1975. In 1979, Liberty Baptist Church received a Texas Historical Marker.
Today, Liberty Baptist Church is known as Willow Bend Church. Historians recognize it. It is the oldest Baptist congregation in continuous existence in Collin County.
The story of Liberty Church and Liberty Baptist Church highlights faith. It also shows community. It shows the enduring spirit of people coming together. They sought connection and purpose. They sought it then and seek it now.