Celebrating 102 Years of Faith: First Mexican Baptist Church in Bryan Receives Historical Marker

Celebrating a Century of Faith: First Mexican Baptist Church in Bryan Unveils Historic Marker

BRYAN, Texas – The rain finally took a break Saturday morning, just in time for a special celebration at the First Mexican Baptist Church of Bryan. This year marks a significant milestone for the church as it proudly unveiled its new Texas Historical Marker during a heartfelt dedication ceremony. After 102 years of serving the community, the church is not just a place of worship but a rich tapestry of history and culture woven into the very fabric of Bryan.

A Journey Through Time

Founded by Reverend Guillermo Ibarra, the First Mexican Baptist Church was established to fulfill a critical need for a Spanish-speaking church in the area. For many years, it stood alone as the only beacon of hope and community for Spanish speakers in Bryan. Betty Martinez, a dedicated church member whose family has been part of the congregation for five generations, expressed her pride in the occasion. As a member of the Brazos County Historical Commission, she played a vital role in applying for the church’s historical marker.

“We initially hoped to have the marker ready in 2022, but we faced a few delays,” Martinez shared with a beaming smile. “Now that it’s finally here, it really signifies our church’s legacy.” It’s heartwarming to see how the church has transformed over the years, evolving from its Spanish-speaking roots to now being a vibrant bilingual congregation, with services that cater to both English and Spanish speakers.

Preserving a Legacy

The church has not only thrived but has become a treasured space for many families. “The men would come from Mexico, work the fields, and then on Sundays, they either went to Allenfarm or came here to our church. We baptized many of these men, and they took the word back to Mexico,” Martinez reminisced. This spirit of sharing faith and community has helped shape generations, leaving a lasting impact not just in Texas but across borders.

Community Matters

The turnout for the unveiling ceremony was impressive, with many community members coming together to honor the milestone. Henry Mayo, chairman of the Brazos County Historical Commission, expressed his excitement over the event, noting, “It’s beneficial for places like our church to apply for a marker.” He highlighted the importance of such markers, stating that they help enter the stories of these historical sites into the Texas Historic Marker database. “People can read the histories submitted with the applications and visit the sites themselves. It adds depth to our understanding of local history,” Mayo added.

A Bright Future

Though the congregation may not be large, it is united in spirit and purpose. “We thank God because he has been with us through thick and thin, and right now, we’re just a small group, but we’re one mind, one spirit, and we’re happy,” Martinez said, reflecting the strong sense of community that continues to thrive within the church. The unfolding narrative of the First Mexican Baptist Church is a testament to resilience, and its new historical marker is a crucial reminder of the rich cultural heritage this congregation has nurtured over the past century.

As remember the past, the church also looks forward to brightening the future, fostering inclusivity, and continuing to serve as a light for the Bryan community and beyond. So here’s to many more years of faith, fellowship, and cherished memories!