What if ordinary people could do extraordinary things right here? That’s the motto of Community Missionary Baptist Church. This church has a rich history and a strong commitment to its community.
Community Missionary Baptist Church was founded on February 14 1993. Pastor Oscar D. Epps Sr. was its founding pastor. He envisioned a church to serve Cedar Hill DeSoto Lancaster and Duncanville. Reverend Chuck Gilbert and Deacon Barry English shared his vision. They wanted a God-centered ministry to win souls for Jesus Christ.
The first service took place at a Cedar Hill Elementary School also on February 14 1993. Eighteen people joined but almost all of them left within two months. Pastor Epps his wife Belenthia and their children continued worship services. Services then moved to Pastor Epps’ home on Bray Street. Twenty-eight people joined. Soon the living room was too small.
Hillcrest Baptist Church offered their fellowship hall. Reverend Mike Simmons the pastor made this generous offer. The Community church family grew from 28 to 97 members. They worshiped at Hillcrest for over two years. Concord Church then purchased the Hillcrest facilities. Community Missionary Baptist Church relocated to the DeSoto Civic Center. The church continued to grow in numbers and spiritually.
Pastor Epps announced another move after a morning service. On October 5 1997 Community Missionary Baptist Church moved to 901 E. Parkerville Road in DeSoto. The DeSoto Police Department escorted the church. City officials friends and the church family caravanned three miles.
The church’s membership grew to over 1100. The Parkerville location expanded to accommodate ministries and staff. Three worship services were held. A larger facility became necessary.
In March 2006 God led them to purchase Rolling Hills Church of Christ. It was located at 115 W. Beltline Road in DeSoto. The 54000 square foot facility underwent extensive renovations. On December 3 2006 the Community Church family moved in.
Today Community Missionary Baptist Church conducts two worship services each Sunday. The church also partners with the North Texas Food Bank. It hosts “Feeding the Streets”. This event feeds over 250 needy families. That’s 2200 individuals per event.
Community Missionary Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith. It shows how ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things. The church began with a vision and a small group of believers. Today it is a thriving community serving many. Remember their motto and consider how you can make an extraordinary impact.