Our Heritage
The Beginning…
Victory Baptist Church was organized November 4, 1973 as Victory Baptist Church of Garland. The starting pastor was Howard Neal. The church was originally located at the Garland shopping center in Garland Texas.
In April of 1975, a new occupancy certificate was issued for 2817 Main St. in Rowlett. Pastor Roy Gilleland was the senior pastor from October 19, 1975 to July 8, 1979. The first baptism service was held in the new building on November 28, 1976; prior to this, people were baptized in Lake Ray Hubbard.
Expanding With Time…
Victory Baptist Church had several pastors from 1978 through 2012. In 2012, Dr. Terry Smith came out of retirement to help Victory. During his ministry, the church was remodeled, people were added to the church, and the church’s first Pastor’s Conference was held. The members saw God’s blessings showered on the church during this time.
A New Pastor…
In 2019, God began stirring in the hearts of Matthew and Susan regarding God’s call for Matthew to become a pastor. Through Scripture and godly counsel, they sensed it was time for a new chapter. In 2020, they made the move to Texas in obedience to this calling. By 2022, God orchestrated a divine connection between Matthew and Pastor Terry. They both recognized that God was opening the door for Matthew to become the new pastor at Victory Baptist Church after Pastor Terry’s retirement. In May of 2023, Victory Baptist Church voted to call Matthew Hon as the next pastor, with his pastoral leadership officially beginning on June 1, 2023.
Matthew’s ministry experience began under the guidance of his father, where he helped with various aspects of church life and leadership. He has been responsible for planning church budgets, organizing Mission Conferences, and leading Vacation Bible Schools. His ministry has spanned across different age groups, from children to teenagers and adults. He has also started several Adult Bible Classes, each averaging an attendance of forty-five. Matthew has had the privilege of preaching in numerous stateside churches, including his father’s church, as well as in foreign countries to support missionaries.
Our Future…
Victory Baptist Church has a history of growth, and we pray for God’s continued blessings as we work to reach the lost for Him. We desire to become a home for every person to serve Him. We ask God to keep this church a place where lives continue to change, families continue to grow, and people continue to know Him.
