“Only the guiding hand of the all-wise providence of God could have brought us to this triumphant end.” — Lex Marsh, Chairman, Board of Deacons 

In 1958, Myers Park Baptist Church stood at the threshold of a new chapter. After months of prayerful discernment, the congregation received joyful news: Dr. Carlyle Marney had accepted the call to become Senior Minister, effective August 15. His arrival marked a season of hope and growth for the church.

Dr. Carlyle Marney to be New Senior Minister
In his telegram of acceptance sent to R. S. Dickson and Fred Helms, Dr. Marney wrote, "This is your authority to announce my acceptance of your call to become pastor of Myers Park Baptist Church. I will resign here twelve o'clock today. I understand I am to begin Aug. fifteenth but will likely not preach until Sept. first. Mr. Berry and Mr. Schwantes will notify the church in proper time of their acceptance. Affectionately Yours, Carlyle Marney"

Dr. Marney told the congregation he had served for nine years at First Baptist Church, Austin, TX that he regretted leaving, but that "a pastor's service must end when it conflicts with a newer and higher call. I have been put under a kind of spiritual arrest from within to serve our same cause for the same purpose in another city. The Myers Park Baptist Church reflects also the power and presence of the great church to which we belong.” His arrival signaled a season of hope and growth for the church.

Out of Debt - For 24 Minutes! 
That same year, the congregation celebrated a brief but symbolic moment of financial freedom. For twenty-four minutes on a Tuesday morning, Myers Park Baptist was entirely out of debt. The final mortgage on the Education Building was paid in full before a new note was signed for the recently purchased parsonage on Warrington Drive.

A Second Worship Service 
Recognizing the growing attendance and commitment to making space for all, the Board of Deacons voted to establish a second Sunday morning worship service. The time of beginning was left to Dr. Marney and the staff, since numerous schedules would be affected. “Effective communication of the gospel,” Dr. Marney noted, “is dependent upon eye contact as well as hearing; that this architectural gem is the most perfect setting for worship among Baptists and is already maximum size for effective worship.” The motion passed unanimously.

Building a Strong Staff  
To strengthen the church’s ministry, Dr. Marney brought his trusted colleagues from First Baptist Church of Austin, TX: Mr. James Berry to serve as Minister of Music and Mr. L. Schwantes as Church Administrator. Miss Martha Steppe joined the staff as Organist-Assistant to assist with choir rehearsals, voice classes, church services and to direct the Melody I and Melody II choirs. These additions helped to complete a staff that would lead the congregation into a vibrant new era of faith, service, and community life.

1958 was more than a year of transition, it was a defining moment in the life of Myers Park Baptist Church. With inspired leadership, expanded worship, and a strengthened staff, the congregation embraced a future shaped by courage, creativity, and deep faith. These providential beginnings laid the foundation for decades of vibrant ministry and enduring community.