History of St. Paul United Church of Christ

St. Paul United Church of Christ of Corpus Christi has a rich and storied history in the Coastal Bend of Texas. Journey with us as we explore our church’s past and how it has shaped our present.

Early Beginnings

St. Paul United Church of Christ of Corpus Christi began its journey in the Coastal Bend of Texas in June 1895, when the Rev. C. Knicker ventured to Corpus Christi to investigate conditions for organizing a German Mission. The church has witnessed several name changes, and its first official name was Die Deutsche Evangelische Trinitatis Gemeinde (The German Evangelical Trinity Congregation), founded on November 19, 1911.

Throughout its early years, the church moved between various locations, including Mestina Street, the First Presbyterian Church, and later the Seaside Pavillion. The church faced challenges during World War I, when public use of the German language was banned, leading to a temporary disbandment of services in 1918.

In the subsequent years, the church found its footing again, meeting in various locations and undergoing several name changes. By 1938, the church had established a Sunday Church School building, and by 1942, had plans to relocate.

The Texan Trail Era

In 1945, after thorough deliberation, the church voted to buy property on Texan Trail at South Alameda. The next years were marked by the construction of new church buildings and the installation of beautiful glass windows that narrated Bible stories. By 1960, the church sanctuary at Texan Trail was paid off. However, in 1988, a devastating arsonist’s fire destroyed the church sanctuary.

The church’s spirit remained unbroken as they began worshipping in the Fellowship Hall and made plans for relocation. In 1990, a groundbreaking ceremony marked the beginning of a new era as they started building on Lipes Boulevard, ensuring that the cherished stained glass windows from the Texan Trail building were incorporated into the new structure.

Modern Era and Legacy

Under the leadership of various pastors, the church continued to grow and serve its community. The church took significant steps in outreach and community service, reaffirming its commitment to being a “Place Where Heart, Mind, and Spirit Meet.” The church’s mission has always been inclusive, welcoming all regardless of background or beliefs.

Today, St. Paul stands as a testament to its rich history, always looking forward to the future while cherishing its past.

Our Settled Pastors

Pastor	Commenced Pastorate	Closed Pastorate
Rev. Robert Hinze	December 1911	March 1912
Rev J. Werkenthin	July 1912	Spring 1913
Rev. John Biegeleisin	August 1915	January 1917
Rev. William Kulps	February 1917	September 1918
Rev. J. C. Melchert	September 1919	July 1920
Rev. Carl Kurz	February 1921	Fall 1931
Rev. Martin Ernst	July 1932	November 1934
Rev. Carl Mueller	September 1935	September 1941
Rev. Roy Gieselmann	November 1941	March 1944
Rev. Jost B. Washburn	July 1944	September 1951
Rev. Edward Mayer	January 1952	November 1961
Rev. Edwin M. Schaefer	August 1962	June 1976
Rev. Veral M. Seagraves	October 1976	November 1979
Rev. Joseph Charlebois	September 1980	June 1984
Rev. Charles Beitler	November 1984	August 1988
Rev. David Pantermuehl	October 1989	September 2002
Rev. Charles S. Brown	December 2007	June 2013
Rev. Burton Bagby-Grose	November 2014	December 2017
Pastor Tom Neilsen	January 2018	June 2018
Pastor Dana Worsham	June 2018	—

The First Congregational Church-United Church of Christ

The First Congregational Church of Corpus Christi was organized in 1866, and it’s said to be one of the oldest African-American churches in Texas. After facing numerous challenges, it ultimately merged with St. Paul, and its legacy is remembered with the bell from the First Congregational Church now resting at the entrance of St. Paul.

Our History