Kountze developed in the 1880s after the Texas and New Orleans Railroad was built through the area, and after the county seat was moved there from Hardin in 1886, a group of worshipers led by the Rev. James S. Murphy organized a Methodist congregation. Land was acquired in 1887 from P.S. Watts, and plans were made for a sanctuary to be used by all denominations. The cornerstone was laid on May 11, 1888, and Kountze's first church building was soon completed, with worship services held on alternate Sundays by Methodists and other denominations. Murphy served as circuit-riding minister until December 1888, when he was succeeded by the Rev. V.A. Godbey. Over the years the congregation grew, organized Sunday School and missionary programs, became a full charge in 1940 with its own full-time pastor, and built a new sanctuary in 1951 to serve the growing congregation.