Founded in 1997 Greater Vision Community Church began with just 35 dedicated Christians. Initially named Greater Vision Full-Gospel Community Church the name changed in May 1998. The church was deeply rooted in its community. It focused on outreach and mission work. Greater Vision stands as an independent church. It operates without affiliation to any larger denomination.
Pastor David G Reynolds led the church’s formation. Early meetings took place at different locations. This lasted from April 3rd to June 15th 1997. The first service was held on August 3rd 1997. This was at 315 Gray Street Killeen Texas. The Inside The Soul Museum was the venue. This museum was owned by Dr and Mrs Carl Settles. The Settles family generously hosted the church until June 10th 2001.
That first Sunday saw 197 people. These were believers and those exploring faith. The church was incorporated in 1999. This was while it was still located at 315 Gray Street. From the start Deacon and Deaconess Ministries were established. Also a Trustee Board and Finance Committee Ministries provided support. They helped set goals and plan for the future.
The first Deacons included John Ford Henry Browning Melvin Howell Ronald Bain and Charles Parnell. The first Deaconesses were Renee Ford Carolyn Howell Gloria Johnson Patricia Reynolds Betty Newton Miriam Bain and Carolyn Terry. The original Trustees and Finance Committee members were Bruce Alexander Fred Chinn Pauline Terry-Culbert Brenda Alexander and Jacque Howard.
Numerous ministries blossomed. These served the congregation’s spiritual needs. They also addressed the community’s needs. Ministries catered to children youth young adults women men and older adults. They provided opportunities for married and single individuals sports and recreation. There was also ministry to those in medical facilities prisons and detention centers.
This led many to Christ transforming lives. Ministers Deacons and Deaconesses were licensed and ordained. This strengthened the church’s mission outreach and growth. Over 300 people were baptized and joined. The church’s growth necessitated a larger space. In November 1999 five acres of land were purchased on Stan Schlueter Loop for $86000. This land was paid for in full by June 1999 paving the way for new construction.
On June 10th 2001 the congregation moved into its new building. The new facility boasted a 600-seat sanctuary classrooms office spaces a meeting room a library a choir room a kitchen and a fellowship hall. This was located at 2000 East Stan Schlueter Loop in Killeen Texas. In 2003 an early morning service was added at 8 AM to accommodate the growing congregation. Both services the 8 AM and 11 AM services remained popular.
Further expansion followed. In November 2003 8.12 acres were bought for parking and future expansion costing $83500. This debt was cleared within 10 months. Eight more acres were purchased in 2004 for $175000. Parking a building pad and utility work began in July 2006 concluding in October 2006 at a cost of $680000. Greater Vision Community Church’s remarkable growth from 35 members to 1200 members reflects its vibrant ministry and outreach. The church’s vision mission purpose and goals have driven its work. Greater Vision continues to send people to global ministry. Local state national and international missions are actively supported. The members consistently strive to embody Christ’s compassion and love.