Here stands Wynnewood Church a beacon of faith in Dallas. It is a place where community and spirituality intertwine. Let me tell you its story.
Wynnewood Church has a fascinating history rooted in community spirit. The church’s story began in a humble setting. On March 10 1956 Wynnewood Park Methodist Church held its first service. The service occurred in the office building of the Sol Kaplan Dairy Barn.
Thirty-two charter members started the church. Edenton Street United Methodist Church donated thirty-five chairs. Jenkins Memorial Methodist Church provided worship service bulletins. They also donated chairs and doors. Two doors were used for the front entrance. The Raleigh District of the Methodist Church donated hymnals.
Reverend Ernest C Durham served as the first pastor. He wrote a poem about the church. It was titled “A New Church in a Barn”. The poem reflects the church’s humble beginnings and optimistic outlook.
Church services continued in the office building. The dairy barn underwent remodeling. Reverend Barney Davidson and the Cary Methodist Church helped prepare the barn. The outside was painted white. The inside was painted yellow with new flooring. Church members worked tirelessly to transform the barn into a sanctuary.
The first service in the new sanctuary was held on May 13 1956. Guest Day was celebrated on May 20 1956. Visitors offered special music. This event allowed friends relatives and interested people to see the progress.
Reverend Davidson reminded the congregation that the barn church was temporary. He emphasized that a church must focus on eternal matters like the soul. Sol Kaplan donated land for a new church building.
Reverend Jack Crum was appointed as Wynnewood’s first regular pastor. He promoted integration in churches. He invited Black speakers to services. This caused tension with Mr. Kaplan. Kaplan worried about the impact on his land development. He initially withdrew his land offer. Reconciliation occurred. The congregation agreed to rename the church after Kaplan’s wife’s family.
Kaplan withdrew his offer again. Reverend James Lawson a Black minister spoke at an evening service. Members Mr and Mrs W L Martin then stepped in. They gave two acres of their land to the church. The church bought three more acres. The new location was at the corner of Avent Ferry and Crest roads.
The congregation continued to meet in the barn. In 1960 the first 5000 sq ft unit was built. It cost about $40000. It included five large classrooms a fellowship hall an office and restrooms. Architect James Ward oversaw the plans. Ray Ritchie chaired the building committee.
An addition was built in 1988. It was overseen by Ray Ritchie. Volunteers helped with construction. Annette Bingham coordinated volunteers. The addition was completed with a budget of about $70000.
Wynnewood Methodist Church changed its name. In the 1980s it became Avent Ferry United Methodist Church. The church is committed to open hearts open doors and open minds. The church motto is WINS: Worship Invite Nurture Serve.
Reverend Crum asked members what made their church meaningful. Members cited personal commitment real dedication and deepening Christian experience. They valued discussing controversial topics and involving everyone in church work. Family activities close fellowship and love among members were also cherished.
63 years later the “little church on the hill” remains a beacon. It stands as a testament to faith community and service.
Wynnewood Church adapted and evolved while holding to its core values. It is a place where everyone is welcome to worship invite nurture and serve.