History of McKinney Memorial UMC

Highland Chapel, now McKinney Memorial UMC was founded in 1919, by twelve visionary people in the town of La Marque, TX. They first met in the homes of church members until they purchased the land located at 1607 Nashby Street in 1921.The land occupied a one room red-barn Looking Building

and they met there until the first church; a small white, wooden frame structure was built in 1926.  In 1945, the church received a free building from the Methodist Episcopal Church (colored churches only) and they called it a Community Center. There they began many community ministries addressing the needs of the people in the community. After many structural damages to the first church, they eventually started having worship service in that building. Since its origin, McKinney has purchased additional property to build a new church in 1961. This is the sanctuary we worship in today. In 2004, a large fellowship hall was built adjacent to the church.

The leadership at McKinney was in the hands of many dynamic Preachers and Lay Leaders who dedicated themselves to the church.  It was, and still is today, a pivotal hub focused on community development, spiritual formation, and Christian Education.  In 1961 the Methodist Episcopal Church referred to it as “God’s Mighty Fortress on the Gulf Coast.” Since its founding, McKinney’s growth has been intricately woven with that of African-American history. It experienced great growth during the years of 1957-1978 when its membership grew rapidly. It received frequent mention in the local press and Texas Conference. In 1970, desegregation took place and we were now called McKinney Memorial United Methodist Church. Following those years, McKinney was focused on Evangelism in 1984 and was recognized by the Houston East District for bringing in 25-30 new members per year. Again in 2006, we were recognized for rapid small church growth. 

Over the years, McKinney continued to be a beacon of HOPE for so many in the community. There ministries were focused on Boy Scouts, Voter Registrations, Poverty, Education, Youth Development, Civil Rights, Hunger, Senior Citizen’s Needs, Prayer, Bible Study, Worship, and even stopping Gang Violence.

Over the one-hundred years, this congregation has been tossed by tribulations, hurricanes, grief, pain, and financial hardships. However, the Faith, Unity, and Strength, in our membership has helped us to prevail. Today, McKinney’s long-establishment to its Mission of Faith, Service, Love, and Authenticity is a testimony of a Model Church where the Holy Spirit Makes the Difference!

Donate now