The History of Katy Church of Christ
The newspaper article reproduced above reported the beginning of this congregation. As you can see, the church met together for the first Lord's day worship assembly on Sunday, May 16, 1976. On the Wednesday evening preceding that Sunday (May 12, 1976) there were nineteen gathered for the "first prayer meeting." Among those present were Clodis and Audrey Cox, Clyde and Judy Wehunt (and their son, Dean) and Doug and Mary Sheppard (with their four children).
In February of 1977 Clodis Cox and Clyde Wehunt were selected to serve as elders. In 1978 Jack Finley was added to the eldership. Since that time Wendell Autrey, Mac Brockman, Woodrow Coleman, Tom Gillson, Cecil Hutson, Terry Pop, Larry Russell, Mickey Sandlin, Doug Sheppard and Joe Simmons have been added by the church to the body of elders. Brother Finley resigned from the eldership when he and his wife Jill moved to Weatherford to enjoy retirement years. Brother Cox resigned because of the pressure of business affairs, but he and Audrey continue to be faithful, wonderful servants in the Lord's work in Katy. Brother Pope resigned from the eldership when he and his family moved to Abilene where he is currently a professor at Abilene Christian University. During 1993, Brother Wehunt resigned from the eldership because of Judy's poor health. His resignation, reluctantly accepted by the eldership, allowed him the time to provide better care for her. In April, 2001, Brother Mickey Sandlin was transferred with his job to the Dallas area and resigned. Presently, then, Wendell Autrey, Mac Brockman, Woodrow Coleman, Tom Gillson, Cecil Hutson, Larry Russell, Doug Sheppard and Joe Simmons serve as elders of the church.
In the early years brethren Justice Wilson and Everett Cox preached for the church. Brother J.D. Cash came to Katy in 1979 as the church's first "full time" preacher. In January, 1983 Brother John Featherston began his preaching responsibilities and continued until June, 1984. Brother Cecil Hutson moved to Katy in January, 1985 and presently serves as an elder of the church who also labors in preaching and teaching.
From the original building (a wood frame structure serving as an auditorium and classrooms) there have been several major building projects plus the acquisition of surrounding property to accommodate the growth of the church. The first new auditorium was completed in 1980 and served the congregation well for 21 years. The classroom building was completed in 1986; however, the second floor was left unfinished until 1990. Also in 1990 the "north lots" were purchased for additional parking. As the number of Christians increased, plans for a larger auditorium began to take shape and, in 2001, the church opened its present auditorium with a seating capacity to accommodate 900. Additional property has been purchased in recent years, and the church facility is now situated on about seven acres of land in "old town" Katy.
The Katy church continues to serve God in many ways. The blessings of God upon the members of the church translate into spiritual growth and the spread of the gospel both locally and in foreign fields. Contributions given by the membership have exceeded what was anticipated and this has allowed the church to share its blessings with those in need. The gospel is preached by ministers throughout Mexico because of the generosity of this church. Also, these funds have been a blessing to individuals and families who suffer catastrophic events.
2005 brought an associate minister search to a successful conclusion when the church welcomed the John Cannon family. John has proved himself to be an invaluable addition to our work force as he develops in his role.
Late in 2006 additional deacons were selected to begin serving with our present group of deacons. Some reorganizing of areas of work was done, and some men were assigned to new responsibilities.
The history of the Katy church continues to be written. What will the LORD find when He comes? It is the commitment of the elders for the LORD to find a strong, faithful congregation of God's people meeting and worshiping Him in spirit and truth. May God continue to bless this church in His service.