Buck Street Memorial Church of God in Christ has a rich and enduring legacy rooted in faith, perseverance, and service to the Houston community. Founded in 1912, the congregation worshiped in several locations during its earliest years before establishing a permanent home at 2917 Buck Street in 1918. Under the leadership of Pastor William “Billy” Johnson, the church flourished and grew into a strong spiritual presence in Houston’s historic Fifth Ward.
Following Pastor Johnson’s passing in 1936, Pastor John Gamble was appointed to lead the congregation. During his 43 years of service, Buck Street experienced significant growth as well as one of the most important transitions in its history. In 1954, the original Buck Street property was affected by the development of the Eastex Freeway. The congregation relocated to the Des Chaumes and Legion area in 1955, and the new church building was completed in 1956.
Pastor Charles Harrison succeeded Pastor Gamble in 1979. During his leadership, the congregation demonstrated remarkable resilience after a fire devastated the church in 1984. While the building was being restored, services were temporarily held at New Pleasant Grove Baptist Church.
Pastor Pinkston Bell Jr. became pastor in March 1991 and served faithfully for 25 years, strengthening the church’s ministries, community presence, and outreach until his passing in 2016.
Today, under the leadership of Bishop Prince E. W. Bryant, Sr., Buck Street Memorial continues its mission of sharing the Gospel, serving the community, and carrying forward the legacy established more than a century ago. Through generations of change, challenge, and growth, Buck Street remains “A Healing Place for a Hurting World.”
History
Pastor William “Billy” Johnson (1912-1936)
The Buck Street Church was founded in 1912, marking the beginning of a thriving faith community. In its early years, the congregation held services in various temporary locations before acquiring land at 2917 Buck Street in 1918, establishing a permanent place of worship. Under the founder's dedicated leadership, the church flourished, growing to over 300 members. His vision and commitment laid a strong foundation for the church's future, and his legacy endured beyond his passing in 1936.
Pastor John Gamble (1936-1979)
In 1936, Pastor John Gamble was appointed by Bishop E. M. Page to lead Buck Street Church, following the passing of its founder. During his remarkable 43-year tenure, Pastor Gamble guided the church through significant growth and transitions. In 1955, he oversaw the congregation's relocation to the intersection of Des Chaumes and Legion Streets, prompted by urban renewal efforts. The construction of the new church building was completed in 1956, marking a new chapter for the community. Pastor Gamble's leadership and unwavering commitment to the church left a lasting legacy, which continued to inspire the congregation after his passing in 1979.
Pastor Charles Harrison (1979-1990)
In 1979, Pastor Charles Harrison was appointed by Bishop C. H. Nelson to lead Buck Street Church. His tenure was marked by resilience and dedication, especially during a challenging rebuilding phase after a fire devastated the church in 1984. With the support of the community, services were temporarily held at New Pleasant Grove Baptist Church until the rebuilding was completed. Despite suffering a stroke in 1988, Pastor Harrison continued to serve with the help of shared leadership. His commitment to the church remained steadfast until his passing in 1990, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance and faith.teachings of Christ.
Pastor Pinkston Bell Jr. (1991-2016)
Pastor Pinkston Bell Jr. was appointed as Pulpit Coordinator in 1989 and became the pastor of Buck Street Church in 1991. His leadership was characterized by a strong focus on community engagement and church expansion. Under his guidance, the church experienced significant growth, both spiritually and in its outreach efforts. Pastor Bell’s 25 years of service left a lasting impact on the congregation, as he worked to strengthen its presence in the community and further its mission. His legacy is one of commitment, growth, and a deep connection to the church and its members.Buckstreetchurch.