Standing right before you, The Believers Covenant Church is a testament to faith, unity, and progress in Houston. It was born in the 1960s out of two powerful movements—church renewal and the fight for civil rights. A small group, disillusioned with the lack of social change in their traditional church, gathered for Bible study. They wanted to create a church based on Baptist values but with a strong sense of renewal and inclusion. They believed in the power of individual freedom and responsibility to interpret scripture. They valued congregational autonomy and integrity of church membership based on spiritual commitment, not social obligation. They emphasized intentional worship, education, and mission. They embraced the rituals and liturgy of various traditions and respected the Word coming from sacred stories, literature, art, and personal experiences. They sought a reunion of the sacred and the secular and upheld the separation of church and state, all while respecting people regardless of labels or categories.
This group, forming The Believers Covenant Church, held a clear vision—they wanted to be a voice for hope and progress. They saw the church as a place for the arts, contemplation, education, and community engagement. They decided to make their home in Houston’s Midtown/Museum District, fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity and welcoming all to join them on their journey of faith.
Today, The Believers Covenant Church stands as a vibrant testament to its founding principles. It offers a wide range of services for all ages, from pre-kindergarten to adult. They host contemporary poetry, dance, drama, music, and thoughtful, provocative proclamations. They offer a contemplative walk through a labyrinth, a symbol of reflection and connection. They work with organizations like the Christian Community Service Center, Omega House, Hospitality Apartments, and Project Row Houses to support social services in the community.
The legacy of The Believers Covenant Church is not just about its history but also about its commitment to inclusion and social justice, shaping the future of Houston’s faith community.