“Discovering life with God for the good of the world.” That’s the motto of Grace Chapel. Grace Chapel Watertown is one of several campuses. This non-denominational church has a rich history.
But first some context. The end of World War II changed America. Returning soldiers sought jobs. They settled in the suburbs. Lexington became a hub for new families. These families began to change American culture. The social gospel movement began to be favored over traditional Christian faith.
Five families met in 1948. They gathered in Nathan and Jewel Hubley’s basement. They wanted to discuss the need for an evangelical witness in the area. This meeting became a regular Bible study. It continued on Wednesday nights in various homes until 1953. The group’s first leaders called themselves the Lexington Gospel Messengers. They invited guest speakers. Dr. E. Joseph Evans and Rev. Carlton Helgerson were among them.
Other couples joined. The McConchies and Dilmores joined. The Mitchells and Coles joined too. More people joined as time went on. The group changed their name in mid-1949. They became the North Lexington Protestant Church. They began taking an offering on June 7 1949.
A news release recorded the group’s beliefs in October 1949. These beliefs would later form Grace Chapel. They sought to address topics chosen by the participants. They allowed any Bible translation. Even the King James Version was allowed.
The group voted to change their name again. On November 2 1949 they became the Lexington Open Bible Fellowship. By 1953 the group discontinued their meetings. They sensed no clear leading from God to start a church.
A meeting was held on March 5 1955. The group agreed to move forward. They drafted the articles of faith and bylaws. Weekly meetings continued. A corporation was formed.
Grace Chapel was incorporated on July 18 1955. It was originally named North Lexington Baptist Church Inc. The first public services were held in 1956. The location was the Old Belfry Club. The church rented this facility.
Richard Reckard served as the Bible School Superintendent. He oversaw Sunday School for all ages. The worship service began at 10:45. Rev. Newton Schoenly led it. Approximately 75 people attended.
The legal name of the church changed on June 26 1956. It became Grace Chapel. The church moved away from denominational affiliation.
The first chapel was dedicated on May 10 1959. It was a 200-seat church building. Nathan Goff began as full-time senior pastor in 1960.
Grace Chapel officially affiliated with the National Association of Evangelicals in 1961. Construction on a new sanctuary started in 1964. It could seat 500 people.
The first worship service was held in the new sanctuary on July 11 1965. Membership was 303. Attendance was 425.
Grace Chapel’s story is one of growth. It’s a story of change and adaptation. Grace Chapel Watertown continues this legacy. It’s a place where people can discover life with God. This is for the good of the world. Remember that as you explore this place. Think about the people who built this community.