THE HISTORY OF GRACE BIBLE CHURCH

In the Summer of 1969, a small group of enthusiastic college students met for Bible study in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Jenkins (at that time located in Sewell Park).  The Bible study was led by their son, Tommy Jenkins, who had recently graduated from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth.

On September 14, 1969, a church was organized under the name of University Bible Church (now Grace Bible).  It was the desire of those organizing the church to have a strong non-denominational Bible teaching church in San Marcos.  In the early years of its existence, the church ministered largely to college students.  It met for several years in what today is the Courthouse annex on the Square and later in the Allen Woods Home's Administration Building.

In December of 1970, Pastor Jenkins married Susan Anderson.  The two eventually acquired an old house on the corner of Wood and Commanche Streets, on the west side of the SWT campus.  A student center (UBC Student Center) was created in the front part of the house where students could relax, have Bible studies and fellowship.  A discount Christian book store was also established at the location.  In those days, one of the strong drawing points of the church was its seasonal Bible study retreats, held mostly at the college campsite near Wimberley.  Over the years, the Jenkins' family grew from two to six.  They now have four grown daughters.

In 1976, the present building was constructed.  In 1978, a Christian school was started and was in operation until 1988.  In 1984, the church changed its name to Grace Bible Church, believing that the name would be more inclusive of the community.  And, in 1985, an Education Building was built to accommodate the school and a growing ministry.

In 1990, an AWANA program for children of all ages was begun.  AWANA emphasizes Scripture memory and seeks to involve parents in the training of their children.

Throughout her history, Grace Bible Church has sought to be true to God's Word and to exalt the Lord Jesus Christ.