“Upon this rock, I will build my church.” These words might have resonated deeply with Reverend W. L. Humphrey. He was the first leader of True Vine Missionary Baptist Church. Imagine meeting in Brother Eugene and Sister Esther Adams’ home. It was September 15th in 1944.
True Vine Missionary Baptist Church began with Brother Neil Wyatt. Brother Jaeul Brady was also there with Brother Sam Phillip. Sisters Viney Phillips and Victoria Reed were present too. They sought Reverend Humphrey as their leader. He accepted. Services began in Brother Neil Wyatt’s home on Locust Street in Barrett Station.
Later, they moved to Arcadian Street and Lynchburg Road. They used tents for their services. A vision emerged. It was about moving from tents to a permanent structure. Two parcels of land were purchased from J. L. Tibbet. They were at the corner of 404 Oak Street and 410 Locust Street.
Don Lang, an aspiring attorney, prepared the legal documents. He also gave the first one hundred dollars. Mr. Tibbet donated the lumber. This lumber was for the first permanent structure. It was built at 404 Oak Street.
Reverend Humphrey assembled the first board of officers. These men included Bro. N. Wyatt and Bro. L. Adams. Bro. Richmond Phillips Sr. was also on the board. Others were Bro. Earlest Fontenot, Bro. Daniel Smart and Bro. Willie Beverly. Bro. S. Phillips and Bro. Daly Tatmon completed the board. Reverend Humphrey remained pastor until his death in 1967.
Many under-shepherds have led True Vine Baptist Church over the years. Reverend Willie W. Washington served for many years. His health eventually failed. He and his deacons constructed the old edifice. It now serves as the fellowship hall.
Other pastors encouraged the church to continue as kingdom builders. They included Reverends George Sims and Kernis Arvie. M. Keith Cooksey had a vision. It was to build the current edifice. It was dedicated to the Lord in 2003. Tyrone Sylvester also served as pastor.
The current pastor is Christopher Sean Carter Sr. His 2020 theme was “Purpose”. He has had many visions for the church. One favorite was “Vision to Victory”. It was based on 1 Corinthians 15:57. “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ”.
True Vine Baptist Church’s current ministers and deacons include Assistant Pastor Delando Williams Sr.. Pastor Willie Edwards is also among them. Minister Roy Harrison and Minister Joseph Constatine serve as well. Deacons include Richard Fontenot, Arthur Jack, and Gary Bundage. Karl Bass and Eddie Blacknell are also deacons. Missionary Mary Hebert provides knowledge and wisdom.
True Vine Baptist Church is where God’s Word is shared. His name is praised. His love is shown. It stands as a testament to faith and perseverance in Austin. It has grown from humble beginnings to a vibrant community.