From its humble beginnings in 1969 Union Chapel Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith and community. This wasn’t just any church. It was a vision realized. Twenty-three charter members laid the foundation. They gathered at the Community First Baptist Church for their organizational meeting under Dr. F N Marshburn’s guidance.
Initially called Union Missionary Baptist Church their first services were held at the Eighth Street Community Center. Rev C C Cyphers was their inaugural pastor. Growth was rapid. The church quickly outgrew its temporary home. In March 1970 they moved to Elizabeth Chapel C M E Church on Tenth Street.
The need for a permanent location became clear. On August 2 1970 Union Chapel acquired land at 910 E Ledbetter Drive. Pastor Cyphers served until 1974. Ill health led to Rev C Elmer Dews becoming interim and then official pastor. Under his leadership eleven deacons were ordained a significant milestone for the growing congregation.
Rev C H Dorsey took the reins in 1976. He served until 1986. Rev Charles C Martin Sr then became interim pastor before being officially appointed. His tenure saw remarkable expansion. The church membership soared from 150 to 525. His inspirational preaching even led to a land donation in 1993.
1994 brought significant changes. The parking lot was expanded. A two-room house was purchased and repurposed as additional classroom space. That year the church adopted a powerful motto: “A Church United in Christian Love Fulfilling the Great Commission”. The scripture references are John 13:35 and Matthew 28:19-20.
The church joined the Dallas Baptist Association in 1998. A relocation was decided upon. A new property at 3410 South Polk Street was purchased in 2000. Renovations were undertaken. The church held its first service in the new building on April 23 2000.
Union Chapel continued to grow. In 2002 it established the Union Community Development Corporation known as Vital Impact. This corporation oversees programs like “U” CAN focusing on literacy and Vision FoodShare a food assistance program. Today the church also plans to acquire the neighboring Kiest & Polk Daycare Center renaming it the Union Christian Academy. This church remains a beacon of faith community service and ongoing growth a true reflection of its rich history.