Whose church is this? This, my friends, is Highland Park Presbyterian Church. But you can call it HP Pres, like the locals do. Highland Park Presbyterian Church has seen its fair share of history since its humble beginnings in 1926. It started with just 290 members, a testament to the power of faith and community. By 1927, they had their first pastor, Dr. W.A. Alexander, all the way from Mobile, Alabama. Just imagine, leaving behind everything you know to build a spiritual home in a new city.
The church building itself, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, was designed by the renowned architect Mark Lemmon and completed in 1928. Its elegant lines and soaring arches whisper stories of generations past, echoing with hymns and prayers. Over the years, Highland Park Presbyterian Church has been led by a series of remarkable pastors, each leaving their unique mark. Dr. Thomas W. Currie, Sr., who later became President of Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, guided the congregation through the tumultuous years of the Great Depression. Dr. William M. Elliott, Jr. served the longest tenure, from 1944 to 1973, shepherding the church through a period of significant growth and change. Even the famous preacher Peter Marshall graced the pulpit of HP Pres from time to time.
But the journey of Highland Park Presbyterian Church hasn’t always been smooth. In 1991 and again in 2013, the church grappled with the question of its denominational affiliation. The 2013 vote resulted in a decisive shift from the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) to ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians. This transition wasn’t without its challenges. It involved a legal dispute with Grace Presbytery, the overseeing body for Presbyterian churches in Dallas County, and ultimately led to a significant settlement. Highland Park Presbyterian Church paid $7.8 million to obtain its release from obligations under the PC(USA)’s trust clause and to secure its dismissal from the denomination.
Today, Highland Park Presbyterian Church stands as a testament to its resilience and its enduring commitment to faith. It’s more than just a building. It’s a living, breathing community with a rich history and a vibrant present. As you stand here, take a moment to appreciate the stories held within these walls, the echoes of faith that have resonated here for almost a century.