A Standing-Room-Only Celebration: Gillespie County Christian Methodist Episcopal Church honors Juneteenth with Powerful Worship and Community Heritage
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By Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
June 21, 2026
The historic grounds of the Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church of Gillespie County were filled to maximum capacity for its special Juneteenth service, drawing a historic turnout that required organizers to set up extra outdoor seating to accommodate the packed crowd.
The service kicked off with a warm welcome from Paul Phillips III, who greeted the overflowing crowd of local residents, descendants, and visitors from across the region. The atmosphere was one of profound reverence, reflection, and community unity as attendees gathered both inside the historic space and across the lawn.
Pastor Roderick Barnes delivered a powerful and moving sermon tailored for the Juneteenth celebration. His message resonated deeply with the crowd, bridging the spiritual foundations of the early congregation with the modern-day calling to preserve, honor, and carry forward the legacy of freedom and faith in Gillespie County.
Paul Phillips III kicks off the Juneteenth service. Pastor Roderick Barnes delivers the message. Students from Texas State Ministries in San Marcos visited. after the service.
A Vibrant Celebration of Black History and Art
Visitors to the church were treated to a stunning visual display of history, storytelling, and craftsmanship. The church hosted the National African American Quilt Guild Exhibit, which ran through July 18th. Displayed inside the historic Schoolhouse Replica, this incredible exhibit featured a diverse array of handmade quilts. Each piece told a story, offering visitors an intimate look at why quilting was deeply important to the African American community and its rich history.
Quilts displayed by the National African American Quilt Guild.
Plan a visit
The overwhelming success of the Juneteenth service stands as a beautiful tribute to the generations who built the CME Church of Gillespie County. As a vital cultural landmark, the church continues to be a place where history is not just remembered, but actively lived.
For more information on upcoming monthly services, historical preservation efforts, or to plan your next visit, check out the official website at cmecfbgtx.org.
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