Question: Ever wondered where faith and community intertwine in Texas City? The Texas City Church of God stands as a testament to a rich history. It is a beacon of hope for many.
The First Church of God in Texas City has deep roots. It is connected to the Church of God in Anderson Indiana. This affiliation marks a commitment to biblical doctrine.
In 1916 four families started a journey. These families knew the Church of God. They were familiar with its Bible teachings. They started holding meetings in their homes. Reverend E. E. Byrum and H.E. Monk assisted them. In February 1917 the church held its first baptism. The brave souls were baptized in the bay!
Robert A. Germany from Anderson Indiana became the church’s first pastor in early 1917. The church rented a theater on Sixth Street and Second Avenue North. Soon after it moved to the Gordy Grocery Store. This was on 13th Street and Third Avenue. Rev. Hiram Brooks held a revival in October 1917. During this revival Mae Hudson and her daughters found salvation. Their names were Mary Rosa and Edith.
In 1922 the church built a new home. It was located at 12th Street and 6th Avenue South. After the explosion in 1947 the church expanded. Classrooms a kitchen and a meeting room were added. The congregation stayed here until 1963.
The Texas City Church of God held its first service at its current location on January 3 1963. Rev. Marlin S. Jaynes Jr. was the first pastor here. His wedding to Karen Lindsey was the first wedding. It took place on June 4 1963.
In the mid-1970s more space was needed. Several classrooms and a recreation room were added. Sunbeam Daycare operated here. It provided childcare for working parents until the 1990s. Johnny Angel became the pastor in 1995. He has served the Texas City Church of God ever since.
The Texas City Church of God has had many dedicated pastors. Robert Germany served from 1918 to 1921. Bro. Rutherford and David Hopkins followed from 1921 to 1926. Jesse Holms led in 1926-1927. Bro. Cope ministered from 1933 to 1935. Bro. Miller served in 1936-1937. Robert McKinney pastored from 1937 to 1940. E. C. Lee followed from 1940 to 1943. W. D. Thomason led from 1943 to 1947. Wesley Hutchings served from 1947 to 1950. Jesse E. Guest pastored from 1950 to 1953. W. O. Myers ministered from 1953 to 1960. Marlin S. Jaynes Sr. served from 1960 to 1966. E. C. Ogle followed from 1966 to 1969. C. W. Hawkins led from 1969 to 1973. Terry Tope served from 1974 to 1976. Bill Hiddleson ministered briefly in 1976. W. Wright pastored from 1976 to 1979. N. C. Middleton led from 1979 to 1983. W. Michael Withers served from 1983 to 1990. Bob L. Arnold followed from 1990 to 1992. Rickey Drake led from 1992 to 1995. Johnny Angel has been the pastor since 1995.
Today the Texas City Church of God continues its mission. It offers spiritual guidance and community support. It remains a vital part of Texas City. The church’s long history reflects its enduring commitment.