The Foundation of Zion Hill
Our Roots
Since our founding in the heart of Tatum, TX, Zion Hill Baptist Church has been more than a building—it's been a family. Established with a vision of faith and deep local roots, our church began with a handful of dedicated leaders who wanted to create a welcoming space where everyone could feel the warmth of God’s love without complexity or jargon.
Our early pioneers focused on a simple mission: serving our neighbors with grace and opening doors to anyone seeking fellowship. This foundational commitment to outreach and community growth remains the heartbeat of Zion Hill today, guiding us as we welcome new generations into our history of faith.
Church History
Zion Hill Baptist Church was founded in 1873 by a group of faithful citizens who desired a place of worship closer to home rather than traveling to Antioch Baptist Church near Henderson. With the support and guidance of the members of Antioch, a church was established in Tatum and given the name Zion Hill Baptist Church.
Throughout the years, Zion Hill has been blessed with many devoted pastors and leaders whose dedication helped strengthen both the church and the surrounding community. Rev. Townsend served as the first pastor, followed by many faithful servants including Rev. Budtah, Rev. Rabe, Rev. Stevens, Rev. Johnson, and Rev. J.K. Bailey. During Rev. Jake Bailey’s leadership between 1898 and 1902, the second church building was constructed as membership continued to grow.
As the congregation expanded, additional leaders carried the ministry forward, including Rev. Lyons, Rev. Fuller, Rev. Andrews, Rev. Bilbrew, Rev. Salter, and Rev. Howard. Between 1926 and 1930, a third church building became necessary to accommodate the growing church family. Many pastors continued to leave lasting impacts on Zion Hill through their leadership, ministry, and service to the community.
In 1965, under the leadership of Rev. J.B. Dunlap, the third building was remodeled. Rev. Dunlap’s dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence left a lasting legacy within the church and community. Over the decades, Zion Hill continued to be shaped by numerous faithful pastors including Rev. Bandy, Rev. G.H. Gholston, Rev. A.D. Cochron, Rev. G.C. Melton, Rev. A.J. Earl, Rev. J.E. Lister, Rev. L.H. Henderson, Rev. A.E. McAlister, Rev. E.J. Roberts, and Rev. J.H. Goree.
Rev. Bernard Gray made history as the longest-serving pastor of Zion Hill, serving faithfully for more than 13 years. He was followed by Rev. Donald Daniels, who served four years, and Rev. Errol Jones, who served five years.
In December 2014, Rev. Gary D. Nelson became pastor of Zion Hill and led the church with remarkable vision and dedication until
September 2021.
Under his leadership, construction began on Zion Hill’s fourth church building in July 2015, and the congregation held its first service in the new sanctuary on August 14, 2016.
Today, Zion Hill Baptist Church continues to grow and serve the community under the leadership of our present pastor, Rev. J.D. Ervin, who came to Zion Hill in August 2022 with a strong vision for the future. Through faith, prayer, and commitment to God’s work, Zion Hill Baptist Church remains dedicated to spreading the Gospel and serving generations to come.