Established in 1901

The story of First Christian Church Lubbock began in 1901, when sixteen committed believers united to form a new congregation in a young and growing West Texas town. With no permanent building at first, worship services were held wherever space could be found—homes, public gathering places, and even other churches. What defined those early days was not location, but devotion.

In 1908, the congregation took a significant step forward by constructing its first church building at 16th Street and Avenue J. By February 6, 1910, the new structure was formally dedicated. Around this same season, John C. Welch became the church’s first resident pastor, establishing consistent spiritual leadership. From the beginning, the church embraced a spirit of generosity, even sharing its building with other denominations.

As Lubbock grew, so did the church. In 1923, a larger facility replaced the original structure at the same location. Seating 400 worshipers, the building also included a pastor’s study, kitchen, dining room, and an upstairs motion picture room—an innovative feature for its time. During the ministry of Walter P. Jennings, the opening of Texas Technological College brought new opportunities for outreach. The church intentionally welcomed students and faculty, strengthening its role in the spiritual life of the community. Continued growth soon made additional expansion necessary.

In 1941, property was secured at Broadway and Avenue X. The architectural firm Walker and Atcheson designed a new Spanish Renaissance-style campus that harmonized with the nearby buildings of Texas Tech University. Though an initial phase was completed in 1942, World War II delayed full construction. The completed sanctuary officially opened for worship on June 13, 1948. Further expansion in 1967 increased seating to 1,000, and in 2001 a new Family Life Center was added as part of the church’s centennial celebration.

Today, First Christian Church continues to serve God in Lubbock as a Bible-based congregation. The church is congregationally governed, guided by a General Board of lay representatives, a body of Elders, and Deacons. Ministry Staff and Pastors, alongside dedicated volunteer teams, lead and support the work of worship, education, missions, and evangelism.

Every member is called to active participation in Gospel life—sharing in the proclamation of the Good News and committing to personal spiritual growth in Christ Jesus. From its earliest gatherings in borrowed spaces to its present ministry, the church remains rooted in faith, shaped by service, and committed to advancing the Gospel in its community and beyond.

“In the power of God’s Spirit
let us mutually encourage each other to trust God
and strengthen one another to serve others
that Christ’s church may in all things stand faithful.”