A Living Legacy of Faith

Explore Our History!

Early Roots in Tyler

The story of First Christian Church Tyler reaches back to 1859, when a small Disciples congregation built its first sanctuary in downtown Tyler. The Civil War soon scattered the group, leaving First Christian Church, Tyler inactive for nearly 30 years.

In 1889, under the leadership of J.J. Lockhart and with support from the Texas Christian Missionary Society, the church reorganized. Early services were held in the Albertson Opera House before a permanent sanctuary was built, marking the beginning of lasting growth.

By the 1920s, FCC Tyler had established itself at 325 South Broadway Avenue, where generations of members were baptized, married, and nurtured in faith. As Tyler grew in the post-war years, so did the church, eventually leading to the vision for a larger and more modern sanctuary. That vision came to life on September 19, 1965, when the congregation moved to its present home at Broadway and Loop 323—an event now remembered as “Moving Day.”

Moving to Broadway

By the early 1960s, it became clear the congregation needed a new space to grow and serve the city. On June 7, 1964, members gathered for a groundbreaking service at the corner of South Broadway and Loop 323. Just over a year later, on September 19, 1965, the church held its historic “Moving Day.” Following a final service of prayer in the old building at 325 S. Broadway, members formed a caravan—led by Boy Scouts and escorted by police—to the new sanctuary. Though some remarked it felt like a funeral procession, excitement soon filled the air as worshippers stepped inside for the first time.

The new sanctuary was a marvel of modern church architecture. Stained-glass windows, designed under the leadership of Carl Bochow, told the story of 20th-century worship and mission. That first service included hymns both old and new, the carrying in of the lectern Bible and Communion elements from the old church, and a sermon by Dr. Loyal Northcutt titled “At the Place Called Bethel.” It was a day of awe, dedication, and thanksgiving.

Sacred Art and Symbols

Throughout the years, First Christian Church has become known for its rich artistic and symbolic heritage:

  • Our Stained Glass Windows – The FCC Tyler Art Glass Committee, headed by Carl Bochow, designed windows that incorporate Christian elements while telling the story of 20th-century worship and mission. These windows continue to inspire worshippers with their vibrant beauty and deep symbolism.

  • Engraved Glass Panels – In 1978, the church unveiled four engraved glass windows created by renowned British artist John Hutton, portraying the gospel writers Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Later, his widow, Marigold Hutton, dedicated commemorative plaques honoring his work. These engraved panels remain among the most treasured works of sacred art at FCC.

  • The Chancel Cross – In 1968, a permanent 18-by-6-foot cross was added to the chancel wall. Its first adornment came on Easter Sunday, when churchwomen decorated it with 700 lilies. Since then, the cross has stood as a central and enduring symbol of our sanctuary for all who gather.

  • The Bells – For many years, FCC Tyler was known as “the church with the bells.” While today their sound rings out through scheduled speakers, the original bells—once housed in the earlier church building—are now preserved and proudly displayed in a church garden. They serve as a reminder of both our heritage and our continuing story of faith.

Together, these pieces remind us that the church is not only a house of worship but also a space where faith and beauty meet.

Seasons of Renewal

Like any living body, the church has grown, changed, and renewed itself through the decades. In recent years, FCC Tyler undertook a large renovation and expansion project. Completed in the 2010s, the project preserved the traditional sanctuary and iconic spiral staircases while adding a contemporary worship space, children’s ministry wing, new offices, and a fellowship hall named Disciples Hall. The renovations ensured that both traditional and contemporary services could flourish side by side, meeting the needs of a diverse and growing congregation.

Sixty Years on Broadway

On September 21, 2025, FCC celebrates the 60th anniversary of Moving Day. For those who remember the caravan of 1965, the memories remain vivid: the crowded pews, the sense of awe, the hope of a new era. For those who came after, the anniversary is a reminder of the vision, sacrifice, and faith that built a lasting home for the gospel in Tyler.

From the engraved glass to the chancel cross, from the old pews to the new fellowship hall, FCC’s story is one of resilience, beauty, and a constant dedication to serving Christ in every generation.