What began with three family members blossomed into a congregation of over 900. This is Grace First Baptist Church. It stands as a testament to faith and community in San Antonio.
Grace First Baptist Church’s story began on June 6, 1975. Rev Linwood F. Russ founded it. His wife Blanche A. Russ and their children Linwood and Audrey were the first members. The church held its first business meeting on June 18, 1975. Twelve people attended. Brother Furman Burton became Church Clerk. Sister Bertha Booker was appointed “Mother of the Church.”
The first worship service took place at the Pastor’s home on June 22, 1975. Twenty visitors attended, including the Russ family. The first public worship service was held at J.B. Passmore Elementary School Auditorium on June 29, 1975. Six visitors joined Grace First Baptist Church during this service. By December 1975, the church had 83 members. They decided to purchase land for a church building. The decision to build on the purchased property was made on May 23, 1976.
On June 22, 1976, Rev. Russ and seven trustees signed a contract. They contracted with Berlee Lumber Company to build a single-story structure. The address was 2510 Observation Drive, San Antonio, Texas. Rev. Russ and 118 members moved into the new church building on December 15, 1976. An extension was built on July 2, 1977. It was named “Fellowship Hall”. By 1979, membership had grown to 257. The church purchased additional property. It was paved and made into parking lots.
In August 1981, Grace First Baptist Church bought two lots across the street. One lot had a building. It was renovated for Sunday School classes and a Day Care Center. In 1985, Grace purchased property for vehicle storage. Grace First Baptist Church was incorporated on March 14, 1985. Rev. Russ suffered a heart attack on May 17, 1986 and passed away. The church had 449 members then. Associate Minister Eddie McCrary, Sr. became Spiritual Leader. He served until a new pastor was selected.
Rev. Aaron Brasfield, Jr. arrived from Second Baptist Church of Seguin, Texas. He was installed as Pastor of Grace First Baptist Church on June 4, 1987. The church continued to grow. On September 16, 1987, the church announced the purchase of two lots south of the property for $20,000. Groundbreaking for the current building was held on March 20, 1988. The congregation moved into the present sanctuary on February 16, 1992. Rev. Aaron Brasfield, Jr. and Deacon Thomas L. Hatchett, Sr. dedicated the site. Sis Blanche A. Russ assisted Rev. Brasfield, Jr. with the ribbon cutting.
The Fellowship Hall was renamed “The Linwood F. Russ Fellowship Hall” during Rev. Brasfield’s administration. Rev. Allen M. Ford joined Grace First Baptist Church in 1996. Rev. Brasfield, Jr. preached his last sermon on January 5, 1997.
Rev. Dr. Walter L. Starks became Interim Pastor on January 19, 1997. He was officially selected as Pastor on October 13, 1997. His formal installation took place on December 14, 1997. He led Grace First Baptist Church to pursue its vision.
Rev. Ford was licensed to preach on October 15, 2000. Rev. Dr. Starks led the licensing. Rev. Ford was ordained on December 19, 2003. Rev. Dr. Walter L. Starks retired on December 21, 2008.
Rev. Allen M. Ford was appointed Spiritual Leader. He was selected as Pastor on April 10, 2010. His formal installation was on May 16, 2010.
Rev. Ford has since installed 11 new deacons. He established several ministries. These include the Women’s Ministry, Grace Embraces Ministry, and Intercessory Prayer Ministry. He also started the Leadership Conference and Men’s Retreat.
Several projects have been completed under Rev. Ford. These include the Linwood F. Russ Multi-purpose Center and a new Healthcare room. A new parking lot was added. The church also purchased a bus and two vans.
Rev. Ford preaches and teaches the word of God. The church aims to build strong families through the Word of God. Grace First Baptist Church stands as a beacon. It shines brightly at 2514 Observation Drive. It is a testament to faith, growth, and community service.