Did you know that Miles Chapel CME Church began in a small building on Buffalo Bayou’s banks? This was back in 1904. The Prickley Rice Mill once stood there.
Miles Chapel has a rich history. It reflects faith and resilience. Let’s take a closer look.
Rev. J.M. Jones was the first pastor of Miles Chapel. He served for about three years. During his time, fire destroyed the church. Services then moved to Mother Drew’s home on Coke Street.
Rev. J.A. Hall came next. He and the members built a small church at Waco and Coke Street. Sadly, a storm destroyed it after only two years. Again, they worshipped at Mother Drew’s.
Rev. Amos Cherry followed. He also held services at Mother Drew’s home. After one year, he moved to the East Texas Conference.
Then came Rev. A.H. Hughes. He bought land at Waco and Vernon Street. He built a church there. Miles Chapel flourished at that location for eighteen years.
In 1925, Rev. W.Q. Hunter became pastor. He was also a Presiding Elder. Under his leadership, the members bought land at Lyons Avenue and Waco Street. In January 1928, they moved into their new church home.
Rev. J.H. Merrick was Miles Chapel’s full-time pastor until 1942. Rev. Curtis Brown arrived in 1942. He paid off the church mortgage in 1943. In 1947, Rev. K.C. Phillips led the purchase of the first church parsonage. It was paid off in one year.
In 1950, Rev. C.N. Reed remodeled the church. He added bricks, a new piano, and a new organ. In 1960, Rev. B.J. Blount became pastor. In March 1962, tragedy struck again. Fire completely destroyed Miles Chapel.
The Annual Conference was set to open there in September 1964. Under Rev. Blount, the members rebuilt the church. It had heat, air, carpet, and new furnishings.
In 1963, Rev. R.B. Moody became pastor. He added outside lights and a church sign. Spiritual growth became a primary goal.
In 1969, under Rev. Willie Mays, they celebrated paying off another mortgage. In 1970, Rev. Aaron Bundage added a new educational wing. It was named the Caddie B. McLemore building. A fellowship hall and kitchen were also added. Rev. Watts donated land for a parsonage. Rev. Bundage served Miles Chapel for eight years.
Several other pastors have led Miles Chapel. Rev. Herbert Scott served for three years. Rev. K. Cain bought a church van. He motivated young people and inspired Bible study attendance. Rev. C. Webster built the Children’s church.
Rev. C. Johnson reestablished the noonday Bible class. Rev. JJ “Thunderbolt” Jackson III improved church administration.
Today, Rev. Valencia Edner leads Miles Chapel. She established the Nehemiah Hands of Hope Ministry. Her vision is for Miles Chapel to be Christ-Centered, Love-Driven, Community-Focused, and On Fire for God.
Miles Chapel is more than just a building. It is a testament to faith and community. It’s a place where people come together to worship, serve, and grow. Remember its story as you pass by.