First Christian Church of Denton to celebrate 150th anniversary


Barbara and Dick Anderson, residents of Robson Ranch and members of First Christian Church, Denton read the historical marker about the church which is celebrating its 150th anniversary on October 21.

Jim Lehman

It was on May 27, 1868 that First Christian Church, Denton was organized, just 11 years after the city was established. That date will be remembered on Sunday, October 21, 2018 when the church celebrates its 150th anniversary. Plans for the event include a worship service at 10:50 a.m. with guest minister Rev. Don Morrow of Bentonville, AK and a special celebration program at 2:00 p.m. for the Denton County community, including civic and church leaders and past and present members, with historical reflections and a special music program, directed by Mark Graham, minister of music.

“Our church is truly a special place for worship,” said JoAnn Boyd, planning committee chair. “When we moved to our present location in 1959 we were blessed to have the church designed by the late O’Neil Ford, a distinguished Texas architect. Our 150th anniversary celebration will provide an opportunity for those in the community to see the church and to experience its unique form of construction and its symbolism.”

The symbolism is expressed in the five concrete columns on each side of the sanctuary, only eight are visible, which suggest hands lifted in prayer. The ridges and valleys of the roof symbolize hands folded in prayer while the open glass walls and the use of natural materials blend together art and nature.

“Our anniversary celebration is planned to honor our church’s past while looking forward to our future,” said Ms. Boyd. “Our logo for the event says it best, ‘Honoring the Past—Inspiring the Future.’ We invite you to join us on October 21 for this special occasion and we hope you will come again.”

First Christian Church of Denton is affiliated with the Disciples of Christ denomination and welcomes all persons to share in worship, service and fellowship. It is located at 1203 N. Fulton, phone 940-566-4990, www.fccdenton.org.