Welcome to Polly Chapel Missionary Baptist Church

Affectionately known as PCBC, The Chapel, and A Place of Connection, Polly Chapel Missionary Baptist Church is a vibrant and welcoming faith community in Texarkana. We're a church built on authentic relationships, passionate worship, and a heart for ministry.

At PCBC, you’ll find a joyful, down-to-earth atmosphere where laughter is welcomed and the Word of God is taught with clarity and conviction. We believe church should feel like home — a place where you can grow spiritually, build meaningful connections, and encounter the transforming presence of the Holy Spirit.

Whether you’re new to the area, visiting family, or searching for a church to call home, we invite you to experience “The Best Church on Earth” for yourself. From the moment you walk through the doors, we believe you'll feel the love, joy, and connection that defines the PCBC family.

Join us in Texarkana as we laugh, love, learn, and worship together.
Come see why Polly Chapel is more than a church — it's a place of connection.

Church History

Polly Chapel Missionary Baptist Church has a long and interesting history of Christian service. The church was founded in 1871. The church is located two blocks north of Highway 82 on Spruce Street. It is believed that the original site was several blocks west of the present location on James Street between the properties of the Frazier and Samuel families. The Sanctuary is presently located on property formerly owned by the Barcus Hall Family.

Sister Polly and her daughter, Sister Betsy Payne are credited with organizing the church. In honor of her spiritual insight and faithful service, the church was organized on a site near this present location and named for her. A minister known only as “John the Baptist,” conducted the first service in that church.

Construction of the present edifice began on March 19,1972 and was completed in December 1972 under the pastorate of the late Rev. R.A. McCurry. The church was paid for in four years and eight months. The church mortgage was burned on 

June 26, 1977. 

Many noble ministers and outstanding churchmen have tarried on the hallowed grounds of the Polly Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. During the early years, the exact tenure of each is not known.

Polly Chapel has activities geared to develop and sustain Christian ideals.

Our history is interesting and notes our work from year to year by dedicated persons who love the Lord. Polly Chapel maintains its history of service to the community, state, and nation. The church has a sincere desire to meet the needs of the people and to be a Christian influence as we continue to move forward (EASTWARD) in the Twenty-First Century.

Mission Statement

Our Mission Statement is to equip and empower believers the Bible way through biblical preaching and teaching and to become effective in living God's Word through Christ's example.  Our goals will be accomplished by focusing on the four basic areas of WorshipEvangelismDiscipleship, and Mission.

Worship: To provide an atmosphere that initiates praise.  Worship is a response to a perceived presence of God and is one of the most vital functions of the church.  True worship will release the life-changing power of God in our lives.

Evangelism: To fulfill Christ's commission to the body to bring men, women, and children to know and accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.  To prepare members of the body to carry out this great task by discipling them through the study and application of His Word in their lives. 

Discipleship: To provide ongoing intensive training and support for members to live by God's principles in the Word.  To equip members with practical directions from God's Word.  Discipleship is not an option for a church or believer. The Great Commission states that we are to "teach."

Mission: To provide an outreach locally and abroad as God Directs.  To provide assistance with physical needs of the people.  We too must follow this example.

Meet Our Team

Rev. Solomon Phifer
  • Senior Pastor
Karen Forte
  • Church Secretary
Daphena Thurston
  • Youth Director