Our Church History

     The Palestine Cumberland Presbyterian Church was established in the late 1800's. The earliest recollection anyone has been able to establish was by Mrs. Georgia Burns, mother of Donald Burns. She indicated that the church dated back at least to the 1870's. The church was located south of Palestine on Arkansas State Highway 261. The building first used was the old Wood Schoolhouse. This building served as the community schoolhouse during the week and as the church on Sundays. The teacher of the school was also the Pastor of the church. The building was a wooden structure painted red and was commonly know as the "Little Red Schoolhouse".

     The present site of the church was purchased in 1885 from George and Carrie Little. The first church building on the site was a wooden structure that faced the north. It was at this time that the people of the Methodist denomination joined with the Cumberland Presbyterians and shared the one church building. The church was equally owned by both denominations. The Wood families were among the founding fathers of the Methodist Church. Both families continued to be a part of the Palestine Cumberland Presbyterian Church and served for many years. He was a tremendous influence on the church and very instrumental in the success of Palestine Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

      In 1951, a new church building was constructed and is still in use today. Construction began on March 19, 1951. It was built by members of the church and friends of the community who donated their labor free of charge. The building was constructed under the supervision of Vester Farrar, Sam Sulcer, and Donald Burns. The building was completed and a dedication service was held n the first Sunday of September in 1951.

     The church continued to grow through the years. In 1952, the first CPW was organized. Members met in homes monthly. The CPW continues today and is a vital ministry of the Palestine church.

     Bro. Williamson served as pastor of the church off and on for over 20 years. It was under his leadership that the church held its first Vacation Bible School. As a result, young people began to bring their parents and the church experienced growth again. As the church continued to grow, a need for on educational facility became apparent.       

     In 1973, construction was begun on a Fellowship Hall added to the west end of the building. Because of his involvement with the build and dedication to the church, the new building was dedicated to Mr. Donald Burns on November 28, 1973 and is know today as the Donald Burns Fellowship Hall. 

     The motto for the Palestine CP Church is: "We can and by the help of God, we will". We strive to live as examples of Christ and further His kingdom by sharing the good news of Jesus Christ!