How did a church in Austin start in an electric street railway pavilion? That’s the intriguing story of Hyde Park Baptist Church. It began with just twelve people in 1894. They met between 39th and 40th on Avenue A.
Reverend W.D. Beverly led the service. He asked those wanting a new church to come forward. All twelve agreed including Rev. Beverly. They named it Hyde Park Baptist Church. Rev. Beverly even donated two lots at 39th and Speedway. This became the site for their first building. The men of the church constructed it themselves. Later, they sold it to the Presbyterian Church for $450. That original building now stands at Avenue B and 40th Street. It is part of the Hyde Park Presbyterian Church.
Hyde Park Baptist Church embraced change over the years. It welcomed new people and ways to communicate. The church found new avenues to serve others. It adapted to meet 21st-century challenges.
In 1975, Dan Gardner began serving on staff. Fifty years later, he and Mary Gardner were still serving faithfully. Dan is the senior adult and pastoral care pastor. John Turner, the lead pastor, says the Gardners embody the Great Commandment. They show love for God and others. Turner notes Dan’s secret acts of service. These include visiting shut-ins and those in the hospital. He provides one-on-one conversations. Turner calls him a wealth of knowledge. Dan knows about ministry, life, and Hyde Park’s history.
Kie Bowman, Hyde Park’s pastor emeritus, admires Gardner. He led the church for 25 years. Bowman says Dan defines faithfulness in ministry.
Gardner’s dedication extends beyond regular hours. He says ministry doesn’t stop at 40 hours a week. He started his 51st year of service. He won’t retire until the Lord tells him to.
One ministry close to Gardner’s heart is the food pantry. He created it to help Austin’s homeless and hungry. Space was limited. So Gardner used his military background. He started the ministry in an old telephone closet.
The church outgrew that space. They found another place down the street to serve everyone. They never turn people away.
Joyce Parker is another dedicated member. She made her profession of faith at age nine. She joined Hyde Park Baptist Church in 1960. That was shortly after Dr. Ralph M. Smith began his ministry.
Parker became the Coordinator of Women on Mission. She compiled Hyde Park mission stories into a book. It is titled Hyde Park’s Mission Story Lives On. The book honors the church’s mission work. It informs members of activities outside the worship center.
Hyde Park Baptist Church acquired the Quarries in 2006. This 57-acre quarry became a spring-fed lake. A Christian Life Center and sports fields were added. The High School was built in 2009. The Quarries Church now meets in the school.
From humble beginnings in a railway pavilion to multiple sites. Hyde Park Baptist Church continues to evolve. It serves its community with faith. It meets the needs of a changing world. The story of Hyde Park Baptist Church is one of steadfast service. It is a beacon of faith in Austin.