Senior Pastor
Walden "Red" Waller has served as pastor of First Baptist Church of Horseshoe Bend since June 2004, guiding our church family through seasons of growth, challenge, and renewed vision. He loves preaching the Word in a clear and practical way, praying with people at hospital bedsides and kitchen tables, and seeing lives changed by the Gospel. Red's heart is for a church where everyone is known by name and encouraged to use their gifts for Christ.
Under his leadership, we have celebrated river baptisms, strengthened ministries for children and youth, and continued a long pattern of faithful stewardship. He often reminds us that our story is really God's story of grace and mercy. Red would be honored to meet you, hear your story, and help you take your next step with Jesus.
Service
We express Christ's love through outreach, including our monthly food pantry.
Scripture
We trust the Bible as God's Word and our clear guide.
Community
We grow as a family of faith, sharing life across generations.
A Mission Church Becomes Family
First Baptist Church of Horseshoe Bend is a Southern Baptist church in Weatherford, Texas, gathering for worship, Bible teaching, prayer, and community outreach. Beginning in 1979 as a mission of Eureka Baptist Church, supported by neighboring congregations and the Southern Baptist Convention, we grew into a fully organized church family. Our story blends small-town warmth with clear biblical teaching, where people of all ages can worship, grow, and serve together in Christ.
Milestones Of God's Provision
Early note-burning celebrations, a volunteer-built sanctuary, and a fellowship hall paid off years ahead of schedule all tell the same story, God provides, and our people respond with faith and generosity. Through floods, challenges, and seasons of growth, the church has remained a steady light along the Brazos. Recent river baptisms, where twenty-five people publicly professed faith, remind us that the Lord is still saving, restoring, and sending His people.
Our Leadership Today
Pastor Walden "Red" Waller, our music director, Jerry Lindsey, and our pianist, Betty Desmond, serve together as a close-knit team. Their desire is simple, to point every heart toward Jesus through Scripture, prayer, and Christ-honoring worship. They value knowing people by name, walking with families through both joys and sorrows, and equipping believers to serve. We invite you to get acquainted and let us know how we can pray for you.
Our History
Beginnings (1979–1980)
The First Baptist Church of Horseshoe Bend began on November 4, 1979, as a mission of Eureka Baptist Church of Weatherford. The late Rev. T.M. (Marv) Bennett preached the first Sunday service on November 22, 1979, with about 25 people in attendance.
Eureka, Poolville, and Beulah Baptist churches supported the mission both financially and spiritually, while the Southern Baptist Mission Board helped purchase the old ranch house and land for worship.
On September 28, 1980, the mission became a full-fledged church with 21 members, affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention.
Pastors Through the Years
- Rev. T.M. (Marv) Bennett – 1979 to July 1981
- Bro. Larry Searcy – Aug. 1981 to Aug. 1983
- Bro. Charlie Sexton (seminary student) – Sept. 1983 to Jan. 1986
- Bro. Terry Smith (seminary student) – Feb. 1986 to July 1986
- Bro. Tom Galik – Nov. 1986 to April 1992
- Bro. Ronnie Chestnut – July 1992 to Nov. 1994
- Bro. Shelby Bulla – Feb. 1995 to Feb. 2004
- Bro. Red Waller – June 2004 to Present
Milestones of Faith
- Sept. 15, 1986 – First building paid off ahead of schedule. Celebrated with dinner on the grounds, music, and a note-burning ceremony.
- Oct. 1989 – New sanctuary dedicated, built with the help of Texas Baptist Builders and many volunteers.
- Sept. 24, 1995 – Mortgage paid off five years early. Another joyful note-burning celebration followed.
- June 9, 1997 – Fellowship hall and educational wing built by Volunteer Church Builders and members. Dedicated Oct. 27, 1997.
- Sept. 2000 – Fellowship hall mortgage paid off 12 years early.
Serving the Community
Through floods, challenges, and seasons of growth, First Baptist Church has remained a light for Horseshoe Bend. From Vacation Bible Schools and youth ministries
to mission support and community outreach, our goal has always been to share Christ’s love.
Looking Ahead
Our story is still being written. With gratitude for God’s blessings and the support of the Horseshoe Bend community, we look forward to continuing His work for generations to come.