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I first saw Antioch Missionary Baptist Church a few weeks ago, when I got lost. What struck me is the age of the church contrasted with the Jesus Saves Neon sign across the top. I went back last week and took this picture at about noon.

I took the time to read the Texas historical marker next to the church. The church was established in 1865 by recently freed slaves and building of the Sanctuary began in 1875. The church was originally located in the center of Freedman’s Town and was the center of activity for the African-American community. Antioch was also one of the first places where African-Americans could be educated. In addition to proividing opportunities to the former slaves to learn about God, ministries were provided to help them develop educationally, economically and socially.