“A mission in a home” It all began humbly for the Tree of Life Baptist Church. In December 1964 Rev and Mrs Billy J Ray started a mission. It began in their very own home. Thirteen members were present.
Tree of Life Missionary Baptist Church soon grew. It moved from the Ray’s home. The mission acquired its current church location. It consisted of a storefront and a vacant lot. The Tree of Life Baptist Church was officially organized. That was on January 12 1965. Rev Billy J Ray became the pastor.
The church continued to expand its property. It bought additional lots from 1966 to 1973. Groundbreaking services were held on August 11 1968. Membership increased. Numerous programs developed. This was due to Pastor Ray’s vision. In June 1970 the church expanded again. It grew from the storefront. This included the main Sanctuary. Pastor Ray and church members built the expansion. The cornerstone was laid on March 12 1972.
The educational department grew quickly at Tree of Life Baptist Church. There were plans for more classrooms and offices. Groundbreaking for these additions took place. That was on December 6 1981.
Rev Billy J Ray led Tree of Life. He served from its organization until his death. He passed away on June 3 1983. He had a vision for the future. He was determined to reach the unreached. He did this through the Word of God.
Rev William David Lowe Jr accepted the call. He became pastor on January 14 1985. Pastor Lowe was an active member. Under his leadership Pastor Ray’s vision was completed. He organized the membership. He furthered The Voices of Watts community choir. He preached faith. Pastor Lowe served for 29 years. He retired on August 1 2013.
Rev Marcus Alexander Murchinson accepted the call next. He became pastor on May 19 2014. Under Pastor Murchinson’s leadership Tree of Life gained new members. He works to feed the needs. Not only of church members. Also of the community outside the church.
Today the Tree of Life Baptist Church stands as a testament. It shows faith and community spirit. From its humble beginnings to its current work. It continues to serve. It serves both its members and the wider Dallas community. It all started with a mission in a home. It grew into a beacon of hope and faith.