News From the Brazos Association
May 2007
I believe that one of the best ways to strengthen our relationships in the Brazos Association is to share about our churches with each other. This regular article is a great way to do that. Accordingly, I will be writing from time to time about our churches, featuring one church each time. This month, I start with Friedens UCC in Washington, pastored by Rev. Ron Trimmer.
Friedens UCC is close to a place all who are acquainted with Texas History can identify: Washington-on-the-Brazos State Park, site of the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence in 1836 and later the capital of Texas from 1842-1845. Its 300 plus members come from the immediate area, as well as from Navasota and Brenham. The church also has a family from College Station, a family from Bellville, and a family from Industry, as well as a small number of members who live in Houston and spend weekends in the area.
Friedens Church is located on FM 1155, just east of FM 912, close to the intersection of FM 912 and State Highway 105 and about midway between Brenham and Navasota. The congregation was formed in 1890 and has a rich German heritage: the name of the church, Friedens, comes from the German word for peace. Early on, it became part of the Evangelical Church when the members decided to call pastors from Eden Theological Seminary. The first church building was erected at that time. A new church was built in 1910: that building lasted until a fire destroyed it in 1972, and long-time members remember it well. The congregation worked quickly to rebuild, and its current building was dedicated in 1974. The church has also acquired the school building across the street, which serves as an activities building and has recently been renovated to include, among other improvements, a welcome addition of air conditioning.
Currently, the church is embarking on an exciting visioning process to rediscover God's purpose for them now. The visioning committee consists of a broad representation of church members who are dedicated and devoted Christians. Ron is having the group read Rick Warren's The Purpose-Driven Church to use its framework as a springboard. Ron, who has been pastor for six years, will soon be going on sabbatical in Austin, where he plans to read and to volunteer among the homeless people there. Our prayers and hopes are with the church as it finds God's calling for the future and with Ron as he plans his time of rest, study, and activity to renew his ministry.
You can visit their website, which features plenty of pictures, at www.friedenschurch.com.
Blessings in Christ,
Liz Nash, Associate Conference Minister, Brazos Association