Twenty members two Elders and one Deacon. That’s how it began. Crestholme Presbyterian Church. Founded in November 1923. Can you imagine? A fledgling congregation in a bustling city.
Crestholme Presbyterian Church wasn’t always here at 1602 Goliad Road. It started somewhere else. Its early years saw both growth and hardship. The Great Depression hit hard. The church struggled. But then came World War II. Post-war prosperity lifted Crestholme up. Dr F M Davis pastored for over a decade. This era marked significant growth for the church.
By 1954 the church decided it needed more space. A new location was needed. The current building a testament to that decision began to take shape. It took ten years. The first unit a Fellowship Hall and classrooms opened in 1955. The sanctuary and offices followed in 1964. Think of the dedication and hard work that went into building this place. Brick by brick. Year by year. All for a church’s faithful service to its community.
The architects Thomas A Noonan designed this church. He was a busy man. He also designed the Harlandale Methodist Church and the Presbyterian Church of the Good Shepherd.
Crestholme Presbyterian Church always had a strong sense of mission. Service to Southeast San Antonio was its focus. That sense of community remains strong. It still serves the community today.
The church has seen many pastors. Each one leaving their mark. From Rev J W Harrison the first to the current leadership team. Each pastor guided the congregation through different challenges and changes. Some pastors stayed for years. Others for shorter periods. Each contributed to the rich tapestry of Crestholme’s history.
Remember the teenagers in 1969? They remodeled the youth building. They were so dedicated. They even used modern music in their experimental worship service. The church wasn’t just a building. It was a place of life. A place of change. A place of faith.
The Southeast YMCA even used the church space for a time. They needed a place to operate while looking for a permanent location. Crestholme opened its doors. This church has always shared its resources with others.
So stand here before Crestholme Presbyterian Church. It’s more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a living story. A story of faith perseverance and community. A story that continues to unfold today.