Bethlehem Christian Church
Cedar Lake, Matagorda County, Texas
Marker Inscription
In 1872, the Rev. Henry Woodard established the Bethlehem Christian Church Disciples of Christ. The Rev. Woodard, who served as pastor for 43 years until his death in 1915, conveyed two acres for the church and a cemetery to freedpersons who were the earliest members of the congregation. Members first met at a wood-framed building which also housed Cedar Lake School. The members erected new sanctuaries in 1913, 1951 and 1997. Through the years, the church has served the community as a spiritual, social, educational and financial leader. Today, Bethlehem Christian Church continues to be a focal point of the Cedar Lake community.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
In 1872 the Rev. Henry Woodard founded the Bethlehem Christian Church and deeded two acres for a church and cemetery to freedpersons who formed its first congregation. Woodard led the flock for 43 years until his death in 1915, and the members, who first gathered in a building that also served as the Cedar Lake School, raised new sanctuaries in 1913, 1951, and 1997. The church has long stood as a spiritual, social, and educational center for the Cedar Lake community.
Why it matters
Founded by and for freedpeople just years after emancipation, Bethlehem Christian Church reflects how newly freed Texans built lasting institutions of faith and mutual support.
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Related people
- · Henry Woodard
Themes & tags
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