History

The first religious services at Southern Methodist University led to the founding in February 1916 of the University Church, the forerunner of this congregation. The name changed within months when methodist families in Highland Park agreed to transfer their memberships to the university congregation.

In June 1916 SMU deeded the land for a church, and in May 1917, the congregation moved into its first building, a frame structure affectionately remembered as the Little Brown Church.

Construction of the present building began in 1926 during the ministry of Dr. Umphrey Lee. Inspired by his dream of a campus cathedral, the congregation authorized architectural plans rich in Gothic detail. The dream became reality early in 1927 when installation of the stained glass pulpit window signaled the end of construction. Members gathered on Sunday, February 6, 1927 for the first formal service of worship in the new sanctuary.

In the years that followed, an amazing growth in church membership led to a tremendous building program. The Activities Building was completed in 1950, and the small exquisite Cox Memorial Chapel, a gift to our church, in 1951. Remodeling of the existing education wing provided new space, and the vaulted stone archway connecting Cox Chapel and the sanctuary created a cloistered sunken garden. By 1959 the baby boom generation filled every corner of the education classrooms. The Senior High department was crowded out completely and had moved to the SMU campus. Again we mounted a building program with the slogan, “Building for Youth,” as the banner cry. The north education wing was dedicated in 1961.

During these years of expansion, the sanctuary had remained virtually the same. Lack of seating space led to a controversial proposal in 1969 to replace the original sanctuary with a contemporary structure. The congregation voted instead to retain the old, revered building, but it was sadly in need of repair and restoration. With great sensitivity to the original Gothic plan, remodeling of the sanctuary took place in 1972, and added features that greatly enhance the experience of worship.

A generous gift provided for the addition of another church building in the early 1980’s. The Dallas and Virginia Biggers Family Activities Center opened in 1983 at a location just across Hillcrest from the main church buildings. The building has been filled with activities for all ages since its opening in 1983.

In 1991, the 75th anniversary year, the greatest gift of all to Highland Park’s church buildings came from the congregation itself. The membership established a permanent endowment fund to maintain this historic building for the future.

A church rich in history, Highland Park continues to attract people of all ages throughout the week to participate in the many ministries offered. On Sunday mornings the church halls are filled with people in worship and fellowship.