15 Years of Faithfulness
The Downtown Campus Anniversary
For 136 years, from 1841 to 1977, Houston's First gathered in a series of buildings downtown. In the 1970s, as the city grew westward, the church followed, relocating to what is now The Loop Campus. Later, in 2011, as downtown Houston began to thrive again, Pastor Gregg Matte sensed God calling us back to where the church began, and the Downtown Campus was born.
This campus first gathered on the tunnel level of 1010 Lamar, the high-rise office tower on the corner where our previous building stood for decades. Then, in 2017, more than 2,770 Houston's First donors gave generously, providing $11.3 million to purchase and renovate an entire city block and building at 1730 Jefferson. The new space was unveiled in May 2018 and has become a distinct addition to Downtown, both in its architecture and in how this diverse campus ministers to the community around it, providing a light in the heart of Houston.
While smaller in size, this campus offers the chance to know Christ and fellow believers in an intimate setting. Many describe it as having “big-church resources with a small-church feel.” One couple calls it "very diverse and tight-knit," while another couple shared that "no one goes unseen or unnoticed."
For 15 years, this campus has made a big city feel small, and we are so grateful for the impact God has made through it.
Join us on Sun, Oct 18, as we celebrate the Lord's faithfulness at our Downtown Campus! We will look back at the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead prayerfully to what God has in store. Expect powerful worship, an incredible sermon, delicious food, a slideshow of memories from over the years, and a few familiar faces you might recognize.
Whether you have been part of the Downtown Campus from the beginning, or are visiting for the first time, there is a place for you. Bring your family, invite a friend, and come ready to celebrate!
We cannot wait to see you there!
"It is a blessing to see God's faithfulness to Houston's First Downtown. From a vision to a reality! The past 15 years have changed lives each week. In the heart of our city, the Lord has done a great work!"
- Pastor Gregg Matte
Matthew 5:14-16 (CSB)
You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.