GOD & TEXAS: Faith Trail

Kilroy was here! American troops in World War II scratched this phrase on buildings, bridges, and captured enemy armaments. The phrase was often accompanied with the cartoon of a man looking over a wall. It boosted morale and communicated to those who came later a message of encouragement.

The desire to leave our mark for future generations is well documented. In Texas, graffiti from the ancient past can be found in the Hueco Tanks State Park and the Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Known as pictographs, they include sketches of animals, extreme weather occurrences, and ceremonial apparel.

The Caddo Indians of the Neches River valley arrived around 800 AD. While they eventually lost their dominance, their influence remains. Known as the Caddo mounds, these grassy knolls of earth and stone were built to house their priests and other leaders. Some mounds served as temples, while others provided burial sepulchers. These, and other marks or legacies from the past, communicate to us today.

In Southeast Texas, along the lower Neches River valley, you will discover the historic Faith Trail consisting of unique temples, churches, and religious meeting places. Early settlers declared their faith in God and constructed facilities that would enable their worship. They wanted to impart to present and future generations that their faith was deep and lasting.

In 1879, Father Vitalus Quinon planted a small church in Beaumont that has become the beautiful St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica. After several remodels over the years, it is now a stunning place of worship. The stained glass and various treasures of art add to the experience.

Temple Emmanuel was built in 1895 hoping to fulfill the words of their Rabbi Samuel Rosinger: “Judaism is not a petrified creed, but a way of life.” The octagonal sanctuary features massive leaded glass windows, treasures of art, and a chandelier that is made in the shape of the star of David.

With deep roots in the “Alligator Circuit” of itinerant preachers, the First United Methodist Church of Beaumont can trace irs founding to 1852. Various circuit riding preachers established the church as a strong and prominent worship center. After multiple moves and renovations, the church now contains ornate stained glass windows and a 1942 Aeolian-Skinner 64 pipe organ.

Some additional churches along the Faith Trail include St. Mark’s Episcopal Church (1877) and Westminster Presbyterian Church (1912). Significant places of worship on the Faith Trail in Port Arthur, include the Queen of Peace Catholic Shrine and Gardens (1983), and the Buu Mon Buddhist Temple (1980).

While each of these groups have left a positive mark on Texas, none compare to the lasting and transforming legacy of Jesus Christ! Jesus was here, and no one can escape His influence. The Cross of Christ still changes hearts today, and “demons tremble at His Name.” (James 2:19)

Right now, Jesus is ruling in power, interceding on our behalf, and preparing a place for us in Heaven. The monuments of men will pass away, but Jesus will reign forever.

For more inspirational reading please visit www.davidroseministries.com

To purchase the book GOD and TEXAS by David G. Rose please visit www.amazon.com