Interestingly, Gateway Church began with friends. They gathered after a church service in August 1986. They wanted to start a new mission church. The friends rented the Chateau Woods Civic Center. It was their first worship space.
Word spread quickly about Gateway Church. The church started small. They used a microphone, an amplifier and a new podium. People had a heart for God. They loved others. The church was first named Chateau Baptist Mission.
Pastor Rick Fowlkes became the pastor in March 1987. Shortly after, they chose a new name. It became Gateway Baptist Church.
The staff and members shared a dream. It began back in 1986. They met in the Civic Center for about three years. About 55 people attended each Sunday. The church then moved to a new building off I-45.
The first service was on April 8, 1990. The new location was much better. It had improved facilities. A new enthusiasm filled the air. The church grew a lot.
The goal was to buy land and build a church. In spring 1992, they bought four acres. It is their current location. They started a fundraising program. On January 16, 1994, they moved into their new building.
Since moving, Gateway Church has grown a lot. It has more than quadrupled in size. On April 23, 2000, Phase 2 was complete. They added 36000 sq ft. It added worship and educational space. In August 2008, Phase 3 finished. This included a new playground and a food pantry.
Phase 4 is in the future. It includes building a gym with two courts. It will be at the front of the property. Gateway Church has a rich history. It started with a small group. Now, it is a large and vibrant church.