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Churches in Dean Highland, Waco

Dean Highland's religious identity is deeply linked to its founding history. The Baptist land donation by the Dean family that created the neighborhood also gave rise to Highland Baptist Church, which has anchored the community for over 100 years.

Baptist

  • Highland Baptist Church
  • Denomination: Baptist (Cooperative Baptist Fellowship)
  • Address (Office): 3014 Maple Ave, Waco, TX 76707
  • Address (Life Center / Worship): 2924 Trice Ave, Waco, TX 76707
  • Services: Sunday worship at 8:40 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:20 AM, and 4:00 PM (Life Center)
  • History: Founded in 1923 by pastor Robert Edwin (R.E.) Smith, who was known for his antiracist mission and whose leadership significantly increased the neighborhood's civic profile. The church grew directly from the community that developed around the Hillcrest Baptist Hospital campus, on land donated by the Dean family. One of the most historically significant congregations in Waco.
  • Notes: The church operates multiple Sunday worship services, a day camp program, and ministries for children from preschool through college as well as adult fellowships. It remains one of the defining institutions of the Dean Highland neighborhood.
  • Pastor: (not currently verified — see church website)
  • Website: hbcwaco.org
  • Source: Waco Regional Baptist Association; Highland Baptist Church About page

Note: Dean Highland is a relatively compact residential neighborhood. Highland Baptist Church is the primary congregation historically rooted in the community. Additional churches in nearby areas of northwest Waco are accessible within a short drive.

Sources: Highland Baptist Church (hbcwaco.org), Waco Regional Baptist Association (wacobaptists.org), Dean Highland Neighborhood Association history pages.