Grace Bible Church – Killeen, TX

Established in 2006 by Temple Bible Church, it has grown into a welcoming congregation where individuals from diverse backgrounds can explore and strengthen their faith. The church’s mission is to glorify God by multiplying followers of Jesus, distinguished by its dedication to presenting biblical truths in an accessible manner, its strong connection to the military community, and its numerous opportunities for engagement—making it a spiritual home for soldiers, veterans, civilians, and those seeking faith alike.

Situated near Fort Cavazos, one of the largest military installations in the United States, Grace Bible Church has a unique focus on supporting military families. This includes soldiers preparing for deployment and spouses managing responsibilities at home, offering a space where faith intersects with life’s realities. Beyond its location, the church’s leadership and members demonstrate a heartfelt commitment to ministering to those who serve the nation. Elder Lauris Shepherd, for instance, has devoted over 30 years to sharing Jesus with military families, exemplifying this dedication. The church extends its welcome to all, ensuring that its teachings resonate with everyone, regardless of their stage in their spiritual journey.

In 2006, Temple Bible Church recognized the need for a new congregation in Killeen, aiming to create a community where people could experience God’s love and grow as disciples. This vision took root, leading to the establishment of Grace Bible Church, which now offers two Sunday services at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM to accommodate its expanding membership. The church has remained faithful to its original purpose while adapting to the specific needs of the Killeen area. In 2009, it contributed to planting Covenant Community Church of Pearland (now Redemption Church), and in 2019, it planted Christ Community Church in Harker Heights, reflecting its ongoing commitment to advancing the Gospel beyond its immediate surroundings.

Leading the church is Senior Pastor Dave McMurry—who has been married to his wife, Autumn, for over 30 years—oversees teaching, staff, and the elder board. His leadership is supported by a capable team, including Assistant Pastor of Worship & Communication Chris Webster, who enhances the worship experience, and Assistant Pastor of Education & Building Joey Colón, who ensures educational programs and facilities align with the church’s mission. The elder board, featuring individuals like Lauris Shepherd and Jim Wilson—both with extensive ministry and community experience—provides spiritual guidance, drawing from varied backgrounds, including military service.

Grace Bible Church offers a range of opportunities for connection and growth. Its Sunday services at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM serve as the cornerstone, bringing people together for worship, practical biblical teaching, and fellowship. Families benefit from robust children’s and youth programs, led by directors such as Lindsey Vaughan (Elementary) and Steve Guess (Youth), providing safe and engaging environments for spiritual development. Additional offerings include small groups and Bible studies that foster deeper relationships and growth. Community outreach is a priority, with teams like the Welcome Team, led by Brittany Hyde, and the Mercy Team, directed by Kim Blalock, ensuring newcomers are embraced and those in need receive support. The Prayer Ministry, under Lauris Shepherd, and the Celebrate Recovery Ministry offer further resources for spiritual and personal care.

Several aspects make Grace Bible Church noteworthy. Lauris Shepherd’s 30-year tenure ministering to military families at Fort Cavazos underscores its legacy of service. The children’s and youth programs thrive, offering meaningful faith experiences for younger members. Its role in planting two churches—Redemption Church in 2009 and Christ Community Church in 2019—demonstrates a wider impact, while its diverse leadership team—comprising veterans, educators, and community leaders—reflects the community it serves. Additionally, a comprehensive online presence, including a detailed website and active social media, ensures accessibility for members and visitors, whether local or distant.

A defining characteristic of Grace Bible Church is its unwavering commitment to preaching the Bible’s teachings, regardless of cultural shifts. In an ever-changing world, the church remains anchored in Scripture, with every sermon and lesson rooted in biblical truth. Equally significant is its invitation to every member to actively participate in the ministry. Rather than viewing ministry as the domain of professionals, Grace Bible Church encourages all members to engage in its mission, fostering their growth and developing them as leaders. This emphasis on collective involvement strengthens the community and amplifies its outreach.

Grace Bible Church unites people—military and civilian, young and old, newcomers and long-term members—to experience God’s love in tangible ways. Its focus on accessibility, community building, and service distinguishes it within the Killeen area. Whether drawn by its military connection, family-oriented programs, or welcoming atmosphere for exploring faith, individuals find a supportive environment to navigate life’s challenges, form meaningful relationships, and deepen their relationship with God. For more information, visit [begrace.org](https://begrace.org/), which offers a comprehensive look at what makes Grace Bible Church a vital part of Central Texas. Further details about Christ Community Church in Harker Heights can be found at [christ.community](https://www.christ.community/).