Greater Union Baptist Church

In 1970, a small group of believers gathered at 2102 Alexander Street. Their mission? To establish the Greater Union Baptist Church. This meeting marked the humble beginnings of what would become a cornerstone of faith and community in Austin. Greater Union Baptist Church’s first considered location was on South Fifth Street. On November 12, 1970, pastors and church representatives met there to formally organize the church. Reverend L.M. Roberts became Greater Union Baptist Church’s first pastor. Initial services were held in his home on East 32nd Street and later at the Salina Activity Center. By 1971, the church purchased property on Webberville Road. They relocated a building from the Veterans of Foreign War to this site. This building provided an auditorium, fellowship hall, and ladies’ lounge. It was a significant step for the growing congregation. The Greater Union Baptist Church thrived at this location until 1976. Pastor Roberts had a vision for a new building. The church aimed to construct a $300,000 facility. But fate, or divine intervention, had other plans. In 1976, on the bicentennial of the United States, the Greater Union Baptist Church family moved into its current location on Pecan Springs Road. This move symbolized a new chapter in their journey. Reverend Roberts, sadly, passed away in 1985 before seeing the mortgage retired. The church faced a period of transition. After two interim pastors, Reverend Edward C. Craig Jr. became the new leader in 1985. During his tenure, several improvements were made, including painting the steeple, installing air conditioning, and purchasing new choir robes. The dream of a paid-off mortgage remained alive. Through prayer and the generosity of Sister L.M. Roberts, the mortgage was retired in 1987, just eleven years after moving to Pecan Springs Road. Reverend Craig’s leadership continued until 1989. Following another interim period, Reverend O.D. Davis became the third pastor. He launched a fundraising drive, inspired by the 66 books of the Bible, to enhance the church buildings. Sadly, Pastor Davis passed away in 1992. Reverend Rickey E. Williams then took the helm as the fourth pastor of Greater Union Baptist Church. Under his guidance, the church continued to flourish, purchasing a van and remodeling the activity center and kitchen. The Greater Union Baptist Church’s journey is a testament to faith, resilience, and community. From humble beginnings to its current location, the church has remained a steadfast beacon of hope.