About Us
Our Mission | Our Pastor | Community Christian Church History | The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Our Mission
The mission of Community Christian Church is to be Christ Present in the Community by Serving, Teaching, and Developing members to build up the Kingdom of God on earth through Evangelism and Outreach.
Back to the topOur Pastor
Reverend Reuben Thompson
Bio
In 1976, Reverend Reuben Thompson joined the United States Navy and served for three years.
In 1979, he met Lorraine Dickerson and received an invitation to worship at St. Phillips Christian Church. He began to fellowship and in 1980 he accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior and was baptized on October 5, 1980.
On June 20, 1981, he and Lorraine were married and are now the parents of two sons, Joseph Keith and Reuben James.
Preceding his tenure at Faith United Christian Church, he was associate minister of St. Phillips Christian Church (DOC) in Brooklyn, New York.
Reverend Thompson served at St. Phillips in many capacities: deacon, youth advisor for the Chi-Rho Fellowship and the Christian Youth Fellowship, Christian education superintendent, church school superintendent, evangelistic committee chairperson, vice president and president of the Christian Men’s Fellowship, choir member and member of the hospitality committee.
He finds great joy in meeting and talking with people. Reverend Thompson served eight years as pastor of Faith United Christian Church (DOC) in Canton, Ohio.
He became pastor of Community Christian Church on February 11, 2008. Reverend Thompson received his BA in Religious Studies from College of New Rochelle School of New Resources. He received his Master of Divinity at Lexington Theological Seminary.
Back to the topCommunity Christian Church History
| Southside Christian Church (Colored) | 1909-1924 |
| East Annie Street Christian Church | 1924-1971 |
| Community Christian Church | 1971-Present |
Southside Christian Church was organized early in 1909 and dedicated June 6, 1909 with 40 organizing members. The group first met on the second floor of the Masonic Hall at 9th and Jones Street.
1909-1914 Reverend William M. Alphin
Reverend Alphin was from Kansas. His wife, Mary, was a state worker with the Christian Woman's Board of Missions. Reverend William Alphin was the first Evangelist Pastor. W.H. Littles and a formal confederate army Major, E.M. VanZandt were guiding lay persons in the formation of the church.The church stayed in the rented facility on Jones Street a short time, then moved to a small frame building at 11th and Steadman. The building was vacant and donated to the congregation. A dedication service was held on June 6, 1909. Elder William Alphin presided. Elder J.E. Dinger of Waco, gave the address using the theme "There is a river, the stream whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the most high”. Psalms 46:4. In attendance were L.D. Anderson, pastor of the 1st Christian, Mrs. Ida Jarvis, Mr. Glen and Mr. George Webb, Elders of 1st Christian. Elder Alphin ordained Brother G.W. Webb and Brother W. H. Littles as elder and Brother Monroe Tucker as deacon.
The congregation continued to meet on Steadman until the building burned in 1911. The congregation moved to Tucker street which was then called Josephine street. Brother Marshall Robinson was one of the Sunday School pupils. Some of the early women who worked with the church were Melissa Fulbright, Mary Phillip, Cora Fulcher, L.B. Webb, Sally Littles Butler, and C.C. Haley. Some of the men who worked with the early church were: George Fulcher, George Robinson, Kit Robinson, C.D. Haley, and a young minister named Campbell. Brother Alphin received a salary for $12.50 per month, and Sister Webb was paid $1.50 for janitor service and $1.00 for wood.
Baptized on Easter Sunday, 1916, were: Lula Mae Whithead, Luberta Miller (Phillips), Marshall Robinson, Otis Robinson, William Miller, and Lenora Hall (Rolla).
A meeting was held to buy the lot on Virginia and Tucker Streets for $400. Each member was to give $20, but he "group allowed the lot to slip of their hands. That same year, the group which has only 12 to 15 adult members purchased a lot from Brother Littles on Annie and Virginia Streets. Church services were held in a small house on the back of the lot until Elder Arby Jacobs came. He led the congregation into building a brick church. The building was completed in 1917. The architects gave their services as did members of the church.
"We laid bricks and poured concrete at night," said Elder Littles. "I wanted so to have a brick church, but Brother Alphin thought it couldn't be done. Reverend Jacobs had the faith. Every day we went as well as we could on the church and when our materials played out, we stopped. A lot of time, we fried fish at night and sold them to buy materials to work with the next day." Elder Littles continued, "We had trouble paying for the lot too."
Mary Alphin, wife of Evangelist Alphin organized a community club which was named for her in recognition of her leadership. The Alphin Charity and Art Club, bought bricks for the church. The pulpit furniture was given to East Annie by First Christian Church in Fort Worth, Texas.
The congregation became know as the East Annie street Christian church and continued on East Annie Street (1234 East Annie Street) until 1971. Legally, it was still the South Side Christian Church (colored), and property was registered in that name.
1914-1921 Reverend Arby Jacobs
Reverend Arby Jacobs was originally from Mississippi. He was a contractor and electrician and helped build the East Annie Street Church.1921-1923 Reverend R. Love
Reverend Love had no formal education but did a good work with the church. He lived with his wife and five children in the basement of the church.1923-1937 Reverend J.E. Quarles
Reverend Quarles was big supporter of Sunday School. He gave prizes for the most members, the most money, and also gave certificates for those that went through Bible training school.1937-1939 Reverend C.L. Parks
Reverend C.L. Park was from Morehouse College and was the local manager of the Atlanta Life Insurance Company, as well as the pastor of the church.1939-1941 Reverend Matthew Faulken
Reverend Matthew Faulken grew up in the church. He attended Jarvis Christian College and was ordained as a minister in the Annie Street Church.1941-1946 Reverend S.J. Sansom
Reverend Thomas Griffin was a student minister in 1946.1947-1951 Reverend London Sledge
Reverend Sledge was a graduate of Fisk University, trained in the field of sociology as well as religion. In 1947, under his leadership, the congregation purchased a small frame house to be used as a parsonage. The trustees were W.H. Littles, A.J. Brown, George Fulcher, Ben Whitehead, and O.C. Raliegh. In 1948, the basement of the church was converted into a 7-day a week program for the young people of the area. An addition was made to the back of the church to facilitate the "Disciples Civic Center”. Miss. Winifred Perpener, a young college student, became the first Director. Activities for all ages included picnics, trips to the zoo and Botanical Gardens. The Child Care Center also hosted activities for children. In the summer of 1948, East Annie Street was the host of the Texas Christian Missionary. The Reverend Robert L. Ruth served as associate minister.1951-1953 Reverend Leonard Brown
The church continued to grow in spirit and membership under the leadership of Pastor Brown and is wife Alva. S. Brown. They had four children, Leonard Jr., Bernard S., Belva June, and Alva Marie Brown. Reverend Brown was a minister who never lost focus. One story told is that he was preaching one Sunday, Leonard Brown Jr. began to act up, he came out of the pulpit, spanked Leonard Jr., but never broke his stride in preaching. There were approximately 200 members.1953-1957 Reverend John Smith
The community services continued under the leadership of Reverend John Smith. The sanctuary was remodeled and an organ was purchased. The Reverend James Claiborn was the Youth Minister in 1953.1957-1961 Reverend Mose Laderson
Ministries included a Day School for children, a drama group under the direction of Elder Mose Laderson, renovation of the parsonage, and the beginning of the Neighborhood Haven under the leadership of Mrs. Lenora Rolla. During the late 1950's, Second Christian Church was organized (now known as New Vision Christian Church).1961-1962 Reverend Allen Brady
In 1961, the Reverend Allen Brady served as Minister while attending TCU in an Interim period. He served until the latter part of 1962.1962-1967 Reverend Major Lee Fountain
In the later part of 1962 under the leadership of Reverend Major Lee Fountain, the church continued to grow and progress. Church committees were formed and property was purchased such as a type writer, memo graph machine, etc. The renovation of the church and parsonage lasted about 3 years. In 1965, the Texas Christian Missionary Convention was held at East Annie Street. In 1967, the Shepherding program was revitalized.1967-1977 Reverend Paul Sims
While Reverend Paul Sims was pastor, structural problems and the wear and tear of the years required that the roof and the entire west wall of the original building be repaired at East Annie. New pews and carpeting were also placed in the sanctuary.A new facility was purchased at the corner of Riverside Drive and Vickery in 1971. Trustees of the church were: W.G. Wiley, Sr., Ozell Quarles, H.E. White. Three buildings were renovated for the use of the expanded program of the church. In 1971, the congregation continued its community service by disbanding the Southside Christian Church (colored), also known as East Annie Street Christian Church, and reorganized itself as the Community Christian Church. The church was established as a joint program of all the Christian Churches of the Fort Worth Area. On June 15, 1971, Elder Gilbert Raleigh announce to the Board of Directors of the Fort Worth Area of Christian Churches that the new church in the black community would be named Community Christian Church.
In 1972, the church employed Mrs. Edna H. Richie as Center Director and assistant to the Minister. Among the community programs conducted at the center were sewing classes, emergency food distribution, economic development, pastoral care classes, voter education, summer lunch program, as well as referral to other programs. Mrs. Richie, Mrs. Barbara Smith, Mrs. Naomi Sims worked very closely with many of these programs.
In May of 1975, formal dedication services of the remodeled facilities were held with church of the Fort Worth Area Christian Churches, churched of the Texas Christian Missionary Fellowship, and many congregations of the Fort Worth/Dallas area. The completed facilities had an estimated value in excess of $200,000.00. The Well Baby Clinic was also established in conjunction with the Public Health Department at the Center Building. Mary (Nichols) Jones assisted in the program along with other volunteers.
On January 11, 1977, the center burned and all the center programs moved to other locations. On May 29, 1977, the Reverend Paul A. Sims resigned a Minister to take a full time position at Jarvis Christian College in Hawkins, Texas.
In June of 1977, the Reverend Ellis Nichols, Associate Minister of the church, served until his demise. Many organizations whose roots began at Community Christian church include Fort Worth's first African-American theater, Sojourner Truth Players, and its successor, the Jubilee Theater, the Black Historical and Genealogical society, the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce, the Sickle Cell anemia Association, the better Influence Association, and the Minority Leaders and Citizens Council.
1977 Reverend Samuel Cole
Under the leadership of Reverend Samuel H. Cole, the spiritual sights of the congregation were lifted. We were called to Unity of Purpose and renewed dedication as a congregation. Reverend Cole served with distinction, organized weekly Bible studies and guided us into 1978.1978-1980 Reverend Samuel D. Pleasant
Reverend Samuel D. Pleasant, a graduate of Jarvis Christian College was installed as pastor on February 5, 1978. Work was begun on the repairing the Community Center. Reverend Clarence Hodrick, a graduate of Jarvis and a student at Brite Divinity School, became the Minister of Youth and was recommended for License by Pastor Pleasant. Reverend Hodrick was united in Holy wedlock with Ms. Linda Oliver at the church. She aw also a student of Jarvis and united with Community Christian Church.The Usher Board, under the leadership of Mr. Will Clay, began the project of landscaping with miniature hedges from the proceeds of the Annual Baby contest. During the year of 1978, the church purchased a copy machine and remodeled the pulpit. The church held its retreat on May 9-10, 1979 at Camp Brairwood.
1980-1982 Reverend Clarence Hodrick
Reverend Clarence Hodrick and his wife faithfully lead Community for two years until his move to a church in South Texas.1982-1983 Wilbert Fountain
Reverend Wilbert Fountain served as Associate Minister of Community until we called Reverend Clarence Howard.1983-1988 Reverend Clarence Howard
On January 1, 1983, the congregation called Reverend Clarence H. Howard as minister. He and his wife, Sister Dorothy Howard were from Cleveland, Ohio. Under his leadership, we began a fellowship with Community Baptist Church of Norman, Oklahoma in 1984 and continued for three years. Reverend Howard served as on the board of several major agencies and community organization including the Sickle Cell Anemia Association of Fort Worth, the Fort Worth Community Action Agency, Bethlehem Community Center and Bertha Collins Community Center. He loved the children and older youth of the church and encouraged them daily. The Young Adults For Christ began under his ministry. In 1986, the church interior was remodeled. Reverend Effie Blair served as Director of Christian Education from 1983 until 1987. In 1987, Reverend Wilbert Fountain was called to serve as Senior Minister of Center Point Christian Church in Greenville, Texas. Reverend Howard passed in June 1988.1988 Reverend Paul A. Sims Sr. (Interim)
Reverend Paul A. Sims Sr. served a Interim Pastor until his demise in 1988.1988-1989 Reverend Wesley Sims (Interim)
Reverend Wesley Sims as Interim Pastor until 1989. He and his wife Christine served faithfully by his side until we called a Senior pastor.1989-1993 Reverend L. Wayne Stewart
Reverend L. Wayne Stewart was installed as Senior Minister in. He came to Fort Worth with his wife, Evelyn, and children, Jackie, Bryan, Treva, LaVina, and Kevin. Reverend Stewart was a great teacher of God's word. Under his ministry, Community held it's first Sediar Feast at Easter. Evelyn Stewart spearheaded the CWF Spring Tea. The Young Adults For Christ continued to flourish with fashion shows, a bowling team and choir. On June 21, 1992, the Reverend Dennis Spivey was ordained into the Christian Ministry.1993 Reverend Wesley Sims (Interim)
1994-2000 Reverend Alfred Dotson
Reverend Alfred Dotson was installed as Senior Minister in 1994. He came to Fort Worth with his wife, Jettie, and two children, Romeka and Joy. He had a vision of a new church facility for Community 2000. The Mimes For Christ, a group of young Christian mimes, were a ministry that performed often at Community. On June 11, 2000, the Reverend Velva Waites was ordained into the Christian Ministry. In 1996, Reverend Raumone Burton served as a Student Minister. Reverend Darryl Trimiew was ordained into the Christian Ministry on January 28, 1991. On May 10, 1997, Reverend Russell H. Myers was ordained into the Christian Ministry.2000-2002 Dr. Claude Walker (Interim)
Dr. Claude Walker served as Interim Minister twice at Community. Dr Walker married Ms. Sherley Collier On October 28, 2000 at Bonnieview Christian Church. Dr. Walker encouraged everyone to be a part of all programs of the church and showed his support by attending all events.2002-2004 Max Morgan
Reverend Max Morgan was installed as Pastor on February 3, 2002. During his leadership, Community began a partnership with Beautiful Feet Ministry in Fort Worth, serving lunch and hosting Thanksgiving meals for the needy. Pastor Morgan was a dynamic preacher who reminded us "Little Prayer, Little Power, Lots of Prayer, Lots of Power”. Reverend Max Morgan passed in 2005 while serving as pastor of New Vision Christian Church in Fort Worth, Texas.2004-2006 Dr. Claude Walker (Interim)
(see information above)2006-2007 Lovie Sanford
Reverend Lovie Sanford came to Community from Memphis, Tennessee and was installed as Pastor of Community Christian Church on Sunday, April 23, 2006. Remodeling of the church exterior took place January - April 2006 under the guidance of the trustees of the church. Reverend Sanford left Community in March 2007 for health reasons.2007-2008 Vernon Jackson (Interim)
Reverend Vernon Jackson served as Interim Minister. Though retired, he worked tirelessly as Interim Minister. He was a great preacher and teacher of bible study.2008-Present Reuben Thompson
Reverend Reuben Thompson came to Community from Canton, Ohio with his wife Lorraine and son Reuben (Ben) on February 11, 2008. His installation service took place on Sunday, June 8, 2008. Rev. Thompson is a compassionate and caring minister who believes in reaching out and being "Christ present in the Community.Information for the church history was complied from previous homecoming booklets, interviews, and a 1948 thesis presented to the Faculty of the Brite College of the Bible, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas, written by Mrs. H.V. Shank, called Disciples All.
Back to the topOur Denomination
The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) originated on the American Frontier during the early 19th Century. Its first leaders were Barton Stone and Alexander Campbell, Presbyterians who reacted against sectarian frontier religion and urged a union of all Christians founded upon the restoration of New Testament Christianity. They advocated adult baptism by immersion, weekly observance of The Lord's Supper, and autonomy of the local congregation.
Congregations accept new members through a confession of faith and baptism or by transfer of membership from other denominations. Worship styles vary from congregation to congregation, but all observe communion each Sunday. The communion table is open to all who confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of their life. It is a place where we come to experience the power of God's love and the grace of Jesus Christ in the breaking of bread and the drinking of the cup. Our gathering at the communion table is the central focus of our worship experience.
Disciples advocate freedom and respect diversity. Creeds may be used from time to time, but none is seen as the test of a true believer. We hold true "Where the Bible speaks, we speak, and where the Bible is silent, we are silent", which means each person is challenged to study the scriptures and to seek God's will for their life. The unity of all Christians continues to be held before us as our "polar star." The Christian Church has always served as a "bridge church" or a common ground for people with diverse denominational backgrounds.
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