Where We're From
Turkey Creek Missionary Baptist Church is one of the oldest African American churches in Liberty County, Texas. Our story begins in 1866, just after emancipation, when formerly enslaved families searched for a place to call home. Led by the Parker and DeBlanc families—Dick, Ben, and Bob Parker; George Washington, Shady, Ellen, Millie, and Cindy DeBlanc—these pioneers settled on a hill near a creek known as Turkey Creek.
Before a building ever stood, worship lived in homes. Prayer meetings and Bible studies were first held in the home of Sister Ellen Parker and her grandmother, Classie. Eventually, land was secured near her home, and the church was officially organized and named Turkey Creek Missionary Baptist Church. In those early years, the nearby creek served as the baptismal site, symbolizing new life and new beginnings.
The first church building was humble—logs daubed with mud, pine torches for light, wooden benches for seating, and a fireplace for warmth. Yet, with faith in God and unity among the people, the foundation was laid for a church that would endure generations.
Before a building ever stood, worship lived in homes. Prayer meetings and Bible studies were first held in the home of Sister Ellen Parker and her grandmother, Classie. Eventually, land was secured near her home, and the church was officially organized and named Turkey Creek Missionary Baptist Church. In those early years, the nearby creek served as the baptismal site, symbolizing new life and new beginnings.
The first church building was humble—logs daubed with mud, pine torches for light, wooden benches for seating, and a fireplace for warmth. Yet, with faith in God and unity among the people, the foundation was laid for a church that would endure generations.
Where We Started
Turkey Creek’s early journey was marked by perseverance, faith, and faithful leadership. Rev. Dick Parker, one of the founders, served as the first pastor. Though he had no formal education and could not read or write, he preached with spiritual power—reminding us that those whom God calls, He also equips.
Through the years, the church was shepherded by many pastors who guided the congregation through growth, rebuilding, and renewal. Buildings were constructed, expanded, damaged, burned, and rebuilt—yet the church never ceased to move forward. From log structures to lumber buildings, from oil lamps to modern sanctuaries, each season reflected both struggle and progress.
Cornerstones were laid, choirs were formed, auxiliaries organized, and land was purchased and gifted. Even during times without a pastor or a physical building, the Turkey Creek family remained steadfast—pledging what they could, worshiping wherever possible, and trusting God to lead them “to the sunrise.”
Milestone moments included:
Through every storm and every season, Turkey Creek stood firm—down at times, but never counted out.
Through the years, the church was shepherded by many pastors who guided the congregation through growth, rebuilding, and renewal. Buildings were constructed, expanded, damaged, burned, and rebuilt—yet the church never ceased to move forward. From log structures to lumber buildings, from oil lamps to modern sanctuaries, each season reflected both struggle and progress.
Cornerstones were laid, choirs were formed, auxiliaries organized, and land was purchased and gifted. Even during times without a pastor or a physical building, the Turkey Creek family remained steadfast—pledging what they could, worshiping wherever possible, and trusting God to lead them “to the sunrise.”
Milestone moments included:
- The completion of major church buildings in 1921, 1960, and 2003
- The faithful 36-year pastorate of Rev. Richard Roberts
- The expansion of ministries, leadership development, and community impact
- •The establishment of historical markers honoring our legacy
Through every storm and every season, Turkey Creek stood firm—down at times, but never counted out.
Where We're Going
Today, Turkey Creek Missionary Baptist Church continues her journey to the sunrise—rooted in history, guided by faith, and committed to the future. Under continued pastoral leadership, the church has embraced growth not only in numbers, but in ministry, outreach, and vision.
In recent years, the church has:
Our motto, “The Church Where Love Abides,” reflects who we are and who we strive to be. With God on our side, Turkey Creek Missionary Baptist Church remains committed to serving, loving, and growing—faithful to our past, active in our present, and expectant for what God has ahead.
With God on our side, we will continue the journey.
In recent years, the church has:
- Paid off its mortgage in full, celebrating God’s provision
- Expanded media and technology ministries, reaching worshippers worldwide
- Strengthened youth, children’s, women’s, and community outreach programs
- Partnered with community organizations to serve during crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic
- Preserved and honored its rich history through records, markers, and generational storytelling
Our motto, “The Church Where Love Abides,” reflects who we are and who we strive to be. With God on our side, Turkey Creek Missionary Baptist Church remains committed to serving, loving, and growing—faithful to our past, active in our present, and expectant for what God has ahead.
With God on our side, we will continue the journey.
