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 to work in Matthew and Susan’s hearts about Matthew becoming a pastor. God used Scripture and godly counsel to show them it was time for a move, so the family moved to Texas in 2020. In 2022, God brought Matthew and Pastor Terry’s paths together. They agreed that God was opening the door for Matthew to come to Victory as the new pastor once Pastor Terry retired. In May of 2023, Victory Baptist Church voted for Matthew Hon to become the next Pastor effective June 1, 2023.
Matthew has received experience in many areas of church ministry. He has planned church budgets and organized Mission Conferences and Vacation Bible Schools. He has work with children, teenagers, and adults, starting several Adult Bible Classes with an average attendance of forty-five attendees. He has preached in several stateside churches (including his father’s church). He has also preached in foreign countries for 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.