HISTORY

In 1954, the idea of locating a Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Odessa, TX was conceived by Mr. and Mrs. Jack Haynie.  The Haynies came to Odessa from Olney, TX. With no Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Odessa, they visited a variety of churches seeking a home that would meet their spiritual needs.

The Haynies eventually settled with commuting to Garden City, TX for their worship needs.  They continued to pray and contact the Presbytery in order that a church might be organized in Odessa.  After contacting several families with a background in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, three responded eagerly to the prospect of organizing an Odessa church.

The first service was held in the 500-person auditorium of Travis Elementary School on April 18, 1954.  Thirteen were in attendance, including Mr. and Mrs. Jack Haynie and son, Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Atkins, Mr. and Mrs. S. B. Chorn, Mr. and Mrs. P. F. Harrod, and Mr. W. L. Brown.  Several contacts were made over the next month and the families of Mrs. C. H. Davis and Mr. and Mrs. E. B. Coats were added to the group.

This number constituted the requirement of the Presbytery and a Commission from the Lubbock Presbytery came to Odessa on June 9, 1954, to duly organize a Cumberland Presbyterian Church.  The meeting took place in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Burl Oats. In these early stages, some members bought their own hymnals, but most were donated by First Church in Lubbock. Sunday School teachers also provided their own curriculum and materials.

On May 15, 1954, the Church purchased one-quarter of a city block with three buildings at 1319 S. Jackson. Remodeling of the existing structures began immediately to facilitate a sanctuary, manse, and Sunday School rooms.  For several months, the pulpit was filled by Elders of the Lubbock Presbytery.

On October 6, 1954, a call was extended to Reverend S. R. Estes, Sr.  He and Mrs. Estes moved into the small manse, and his service as the first pastor of the Church began.  After approximately two years of service, Rev. Estes submitted his resignation and Rev. Robert Craig was called as pastor.  Rev. Craig came to service September 1, 1956. It was under his leadership that the church relocated to its current location at 1415 N. Grandview.  The property was purchased in January 1958. Groundbreaking began in July 1958. The first service at the new location was held in October 1958.

The church has seen many pastors and much growth since those early days in the late 1950’s.  Currently, Kyle Rodgers serves as Pastor and is accompanied by Associate Pastor Sharon Notley.