Hometown: Fayetteville
Church History: 1820 is the year Piney Grove officially became a church. It was founded by a small group of believers — 13 women and 16 men — who were gathered under a brush arbor, just a crude shelter made out of sticks and brush to block out the sun.
The first building was a log cabin located just across the street from where we are now.
Historical perspective: In 1820, Texas wasn’t even a state yet. It was still a part of Mexico. It was the year Daniel Boone died. Thomas Jefferson and John Adams were still living.
Good Genes: Since (Piney Grove) was born out of the Second Great Awakening, I often tell our congregation that revival is in our DNA. I really try to fan the flames, since we come from such a great history.
When we walk into glory one day, and we meet all the other members of Piney Grove from the past 200 years, I want them to look at us and say, “Oh, you’re that generation,” and mean it in a positive way.
Celebrations: (September) was a great month spent celebrating an impactful 200 years of ministry! Celebrations included video “well wishes” from past ministers, members and special friends; an outdoor concert with Christian music artist Calvary’s Hill; a church-wide wiffle-ball tournament and the dedication of our 200th Celebration Prayer Garden.
On 2020’s Challenges: We’re doing the very best we can to be responsible for our congregation and responsible to our community. … The church can really help meet the needs of our country. We need to recognize the power of faith by giving people hope and emotional, as well as spiritual, strength.
