“Seeking cultural and spiritual support in Houston?” That’s what many in the local Indian community were likely asking before the First Indian Baptist Mission Church was established. This church provides a place for worship. It also fosters community gatherings. Moreover, it offers vital outreach programs.
The First Indian Baptist Mission Church serves a unique purpose. It supports the local Indian community. The mission focuses on cultural identity. It also embraces spiritual growth.
Imagine a space. Here, traditions are honored. Faith is nurtured. Community bonds strengthen. That’s the essence of this church.
It stands as a beacon. It represents hope and unity. It offers a sense of belonging.
Unfortunately, details about the church’s founding in Houston are scarce. However, we can look at a related church for insights. Indian Mission Baptist Church was started in Smithville, Oklahoma. Bro. Josh Harjo founded it in 1969. He and Sister Ramona felt called to serve the Choctaws.
They traveled from Fort Worth to the Choctaw Nation. God directed them to Leflore and McCurtain Counties. On June 1, 1969, the Harjos moved to Smithville. They brought their five children.
The first service was held on June 15, 1969. Only seven people attended. These were Josh, Ramona, and their children.
The mission experienced growth. Many people were saved. Lives changed. Families were restored. Young men were called to preach. Both Indian and non-Indian people embraced faith.
In the spring of 1970, the mission became a church. Calvary Baptist Church in Perry, Oklahoma authorized it. W. W. Baker was the pastor. They met in an old country house. Charter members included Jerry Bohanon and Juanita Futrell. Lendel McGee and Mike Bush also joined. So did Winfred and Edna Mae Going.
The church bought land east of Smithville. As the land was cleared, a brush arbor was built. The congregation met there. During a revival, 29 souls were saved. Some were former drunks and bootleggers.
In the fall of 1970, a foundation was poured. Men worked on the meeting house. Ladies helped too. Dedication was in June 1971. People came from Oklahoma, Texas, and Tennessee.
Waymond Cooper became the first full-time pastor in 1972. The church started three more churches. These were in Wright City and Talihina. Another was in Okmulgee. Later, one was established in Bethel, Oklahoma.
Indian Mission Baptist Church has a rich heritage. Dr. J. Frank Norris influenced it. He was the pastor of First Baptist Church in Fort Worth. He preached salvation by grace. He also emphasized the local church. He advocated confrontational evangelism.
Calvary Baptist Church in Grand Prairie, TX also played a role. Dr. Oldham became pastor in 1945. Dan Tidwell directed music. He later started a church in Perry, Oklahoma. W. W. Baker followed him as pastor.
In 1967, Josh and Ramona Harjo joined Calvary Baptist Church in Perry. Pastor Baker helped Bro. Harjo organize Indian Baptist Church. This highlights the interconnectedness of Baptist churches.
Since 1970, Indian Mission Baptist Church has remained faithful. It upholds sound doctrine. The church believes in the Bible’s inspiration. It supports missions. It practices biblical separation. Its mission is to glorify God. It aims to edify saints. It desires to evangelize sinners.
The First Indian Baptist Mission Church in Houston shares these values. While its specific history may be less documented, its purpose is clear. It serves as a vital spiritual hub for the local Indian community. It offers a place of belonging and cultural preservation. It ensures that faith and community thrive together.