“Where everybody is somebody and Jesus Christ is Lord” is not just a motto. It is the lived reality of The Passion of Christ 1st Community Church. This church stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to community transformation.
The Passion of Christ First Community Church has a fascinating backstory. It began with the Zion Travelers Missionary Baptist Church. In February 2005, Zion Travelers celebrated its 77th anniversary. Little did they know what the future held.
The Zion Travelers Missionary Baptist Church faced challenges. There was low attendance and limited financial support. Bishop R.C. Pritchett, Jr. sought guidance from the Dallas Baptist Association. The idea of a fresh start emerged.
Pastor Pritchett proposed dissolving Zion Travelers. He envisioned a “new start” church. This would provide greater access to resources. These resources could lead to financial and spiritual growth. The board prayed and then voted unanimously to dissolve ZT.
The next step was choosing a new name. Pastor Pritchett suggested “The Passion of Christ.” The board loved it. At the next meeting, they added “1st Community Church.” The Passion of Christ 1st Community Church was born.
On April 6, 2005, Pastor Pritchett resigned from Zion Travelers. He had served for 30 years. He was then voted Founder and Pastor of The Passion of Christ 1st Community Church. New bylaws were created. A mission statement was developed. The church was ready for a new chapter.
Michael Washington, a Paul Quinn College student, designed a new symbol. It was like a dove with keys instead of an olive leaf. The keys represented the keys to the Kingdom. This symbolized a new start with divine guidance.
The last service of Zion Travelers was held on the last Sunday in April 2005. Members shared farewells with tears and laughter. The spirit of the Lord filled the temple. It was a day of closure and anticipation.
The following Sunday, The Passion of Christ 1st Community Church opened its doors. Former Zion Travelers and new members joined. Approximately 40 people joined that day. The Passion of Christ family grew rapidly.
Pastor Pritchett is a remarkable figure. Raised in the North & West Dallas projects, he overcame many obstacles. He married Caroline J. Turner in 1972. They celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary in 2017.
Bishop R.C. Pritchett Jr. received his certificate of ordination in 1973. He served as an Associate Minister at Love Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. In 1974, he joined Zion Travelers Missionary Baptist Church. He became the pastor in December 1976.
Pastor Pritchett is a graduate of the Southern Bible Institute. He holds degrees from the International Bible Institute & Seminary and the Christian Bible College & Seminary. He retired from the Dallas County School in 2018 after 34 years.
The Passion of Christ 1st Community Church continues to thrive. It ministers to the community. It spreads God’s message of love and salvation. The church welcomes all who seek a place to praise and worship.
Remember that The Passion of Christ 1st Community Church is more than just a building. It is a family. It is a place where everyone is valued. It is a community built on faith, love, and service.