The History of The Rowlett Congregation
Concetption
The church of Christ at Rowlett, began out of need for the Rowlett community and members of the Lord's Church who were currently driving long distances to attend the Broadway church of Christ in Garland, Texas.
Construction
With encouragement and financial backing from the Broadway church of Christ in Garland, Texas, construction on the new Rowlett church building began. Stover Steel Structures Inc., provided the construction of the building using pre-engineered steel building technology. Upon completion of the project, the building would have 10,000 square feet and would seat 400 people. Three men essental to the beginning of the project were: Otho Rogers (preacher), George H. Stover (builder), and Paul Drum, who donated the land for the church building.
Completion
Worship services in the new church building began Sunday, November 7, 1976. Otho Rogers, preacher for the new congregation, stated:"We feel this is a much needed addition to the community, to serve those that are now driving some distance to attend the church of Christ, for many that are moving into this area, as well as those who have lived here for many years." When the members of the new congregation started meeting they were self supporting. The congregations first elders were: Ivan Bonham, Paul Drum, and Ned Martin. The first deacons were: Jim Atchley, Tom Estes, Gary Collins, David Livingston, John Hewitt, Don Reagan, Dale Shaw, and Raymond Sweeney.
Preachers
The preachers for the Rowlett church of Christ have been as follows: (years are approximate)