history

As the first organized church in Ellis County, the Shiloh Cumberland Presbyterian Church congregation was chartered with twenty members on July 25, 1847. This was two years before the formation of the county.

The church began under the leadership of the Rev. Finis E. King, a pioneer area minister, along with the assistance of the Rev. J.C. Provine of Lamar County. Worship services were first conducted under a brush arbor. Later, services were held in a cedar log tabernacle constructed by Matt McElroy and his eight sons. In 1872, during the pastorate of the Rev. D.G. Molloy, the present frame sanctuary was completed. J.P. Laughlin built the structure using lumber from Cherokee County in East Texas.

Since the earliest days of settlement, the Shiloh Cumberland Presbyterian congregation has led in the development of Ovilla and the surrounding area. Ministers here have included such prominent early Presbyterian preachers as the Rev. King, who served as pastor from the time of the church’s organization until his death in 1859 and Rev. R.M. White., who was instrumental in the formation of several Ellis County churches.

Shiloh continues to thrive today with the sustained leadership of our Lord and Savior along with our minister Rev. Vernon J. Sansom, Jr.along with our Ruling Elders and Deacons.

Worship is at the heart of the Shiloh Cumberland Presbyterian Church community. In worship we discover and express our identity as God’s people. We discover new relationships of love and peace with each other, and are sent to minister in the world in the name of Christ. Our worship service is Christ-centered, Scripturally sound, and founded in the Reformed/Presbyterian tradition.

Fellowship is also an important part of our ministry. Browse our photo archive for a look at some of our family gatherings.