BELIEFS

     From its humble beginnings in 1889, when services were first held beneath a grape arbor, First Baptist Church of Grapeland has faithfully served God and the local community. Official recognition came on August 14, 1891, when ministers from the Neches River and Cherokee Associations formally acknowledged the Baptist Church of Grapeland. Though its name has changed slightly over the years, it is now officially known as First Baptist Church, Grapeland, Texas.

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     In the early years, worship services were held in a public school building until 1908, when the church purchased three lots at its current location. Construction of the first church building was gradual, progressing as funds allowed. The first service in the partially completed structure was held on November 7, 1909, with members seated on used, hand-made pews. In the years following, the church added carbide lighting and opera seats (1918), a baptistery annex (1928), and iconic belfry towers that housed bells to call worshippers to service. Tragically, this original frame building was lost to fire on June 19, 1948.

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     To rebuild, the church incorporated as a non-profit on January 20, 1949, with the name First Baptist Church Grapeland. A new brick building—including a sanctuary, fellowship hall, and a two-story wing for offices and classrooms—was completed on the same site. The congregation held its first service in the new building on December 18, 1949. A joyful dedication and note-burning ceremony followed on May 29, 1960, to celebrate and mark the church’s debt-free status.

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     Growth continued in the decades that followed. In 1977, the remainder of City Block 10 was purchased for expansion. A two-story classroom wing and gravel parking lot were completed in 1980, followed by a nursery and preschool addition, and more classrooms in 1985 to the north side of the main structure.

 

     On August 11, 1991, more than 450 members and former members celebrated the church’s 100th anniversary with the theme “Proud Past – Promising Future.” On February 16, 1992, the church received an official Texas Historical Marker, commemorating a century of spiritual leadership in the community.

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     After much prayer and discernment, in February 2003, First Baptist Church of Grapeland launched a campaign to raise funds for a much-needed Family Life Center, along with renovations to the sanctuary and the east and west wings. Construction officially began with a groundbreaking ceremony on October 26, 2003. To make space for the new facility, the existing nursery and preschool building was removed.

Through two major campaigns—“Growing with God” (2003) and “Fulfilling God’s Vision” (concluded in 2011)—and by God's provision, church members and generous bequests contributed over $2 million toward the building project. This remarkable effort reflects both the congregation’s faithfulness and God’s continued guidance.

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     Today, the Family Life Center stands as a powerful symbol of God’s provision and the faithfulness of His people. The renovated sanctuary continues to host worship services rooted in strong Biblical preaching. The church remains active in discipleship and outreach through Sunday School, AWANA for children, youth and senior adult ministries, and a vibrant music program.

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First Baptist Church of Grapeland is grateful for its heritage and looks to the future with the same spirit of faith and commitment. Visitors and new members are always warmly welcomed as the church continues its mission to glorify God and serve the Grapeland community.