The Waco Avenue UB Church began in 1903 with Sunday School sessions held at 1125 North Waco. Through the efforts of early members, lots were purchased and a tent placed there for summer services. A young couple, Rev. Edgar Green and his wife, were sent to serve the congregation. In 1905 it was moved to build a church on the lots; construction began a year later. With the help of members, friends, and some business owners in the community, the small white brick veneer church was completed and dedicated on August 2, 1908. In 1914 the parsonage was built. During the pastorate of Dr. J. W. Burkett in the fall of 1915, the church was remodeled and enlarged, with a new wing built on the west side. The original white bricks were replaced with brown, stained glass windows were installed, pews and a new pulpit were put in. The church dipped in membership to 109 in the 1930s, but with persistent effort it was increased to 400 and the financial standing of the church improved to the point of no indebtedness, all obligations met and a balance in the treasury. At that time, through the help of several church organizations, the church was recarpeted, choir robes and altar curtains published, kitchen replenished, a mimeograph machine bought, and repairs made in church and parsonage. (From “The History of Waco Church,” Mother Wentz, undated, in Waco Church History file currently in Box 1; February 2021.) Waco UMC and Iglesia Sobre la Roca had an agreement in 1993 for shared use of the building and facilities. In 1994, Waco UMC and Iglesia Sobre la Roca (Church on the Rock) merged.

Note written by Sarah St. John; Melinda Rittgers