Imagine the year is 1866. The Civil War has just ended. This is when the story of Damascus Missionary Baptist Church begins.
Right here, a seed of faith was planted. It was planted by Reverend I. S. Campbell. The National Baptist Convention sent him to organize African American churches in Texas.
Campbell was assisted by Joseph Smalley. Together, they established Damascus Missionary Baptist Church. The church served residents in the West End and Chaneyville neighborhoods. These neighborhoods later became part of Houston’s Sixth Ward.
Reverend Thomas Louis Hansborough became the first pastor. Initially, the congregation met in a member’s home. Later, they built a sanctuary at Center and Leverkuhn streets.
By 1885, the church had grown. Trustees purchased property on Court Street near Center Street. A new church building was erected there in 1893.
However, tragedy struck. Storms destroyed the structure in 1900 and again in 1915. Each time, the resilient congregation rebuilt.
In 1926, they bought property at 3122 Center Street. New structures were erected in 1939 and 2007. The Damascus Missionary Baptist Church continued to thrive.
Throughout its history, Damascus Missionary Baptist Church served its community. It offered missionary work and worship. The church also provided educational and civic outreach programs.
Members organized auxiliary groups. These included the Business and Professional Women of Damascus. There was also The Damascus Christian Education Committee and the Willing Workers Organization.
The church established a scholarship fund. It created a bereavement ministry. A food and clothing pantry provided Christian outreach.
Some families have been with the church since its beginning. Their dedication has spanned generations. The Damascus Missionary Baptist Church plaque stands as a testament to their enduring spirit.
The marker tells a story of faith and resilience. It speaks of community and service. It reminds us of the power of collective hope. This is the legacy of Damascus Missionary Baptist Church. It continues to inspire today.