Historic Brazos County Church Celebrates 170 Years of Worship and Community

BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) – The congregation of Alexander United Methodist Church gathered this weekend to celebrate a special milestone—170 years of worship and service to the community. Founded in 1854, the church is the oldest continuously operating church in Brazos County.

Helen Marie Wager, who has attended this church since 1952, wondered why this church was so special to her and her family.

“I love this church and I love this hill, we’ve had some great people here, we’ve had some really good preachers, and the Methodist church has been good to us,” Wager said. “My family is buried here. The greats and all that. You know, when you fall in love with something, this hill is just special.”

Helen Marie Wager, who has attended this church since 1952, wondered why this church was so special to her and her family.(KBTX)

Over the decades, the church has expanded with new buildings and modern renovations, but members say the church’s strength lies in its community. The congregation gathered Sunday to celebrate not only the church’s history but also its bright future.

Pastor Keith Whitaker, the church’s current pastor, said the longevity of Alexander United Methodist Church is a testament to the love and dedication of its members.

“It’s kind of like you feel the spirit when you’re here,” Whitaker said. “You know it doesn’t last without a lot of love, and here you really feel the love.”

“For a church to survive this long, it has to be filled with good, faithful people who want to work, who want to serve. And that describes exactly what this congregation is,” Pastor Whitaker added.

Rev. Keith Whitaker, current pastor of the church.(KBTX)

As the church moves forward, leaders are focused on welcoming new families and growing their congregation. Longtime member Mark Spillers said the church is built on a strong sense of community and mutual support.

“I’ve always wanted to say it’s not personal, it’s business in this church, it’s not business, it’s personal. Everyone supports each other, and it’s been a friendly, good church from the youngest to the oldest,” Spillers said.

Long time member Mark Spillers(KBTX)

With 170 years under its belt, the Alexander United Methodist Church congregation is ready for the future while continuing to nurture the heritage of faith that has bound them together for so long.

The anniversary celebration included a musical performance by the Wesley Foundation Ramblers of Texas A&M, a Methodist student organization, a sermon, and time for fellowship, including a buffet dinner that highlighted the church’s ongoing mission of openness and service to the community.

The Wesley Foundation of Texas A&M, a Methodist student organization, participated in the anniversary celebration.(KBTX)

You can watch the live broadcast of the event below.