Fishermen's Christmas Party, 1940, in Robbins Hall
Under Dr. Lancaster’s leadership, a mission church at Old Ocean was organized. The work grew there, a building was moved to a site in Old Ocean, and the Old Ocean Presbyterian Church was founded. This church eventually became the Sweeny Presbyterian Church.
Fishermen's Christmas Party, 1940, in Robbins Hall
In 1954, Dr. Albert T. Dyal accepted a call to the pastorate of this church. During his 14 years as pastor, Dr. Dyal served not only the church but was an active civic leader and Rotarian. He was regularly called on for the annual Chamber of Commerce banquets, serving as Master of Ceremonies for that organization over ten years.
An extensive remodeling of the church was completed in 1963 at which time the north wing of the church school and the offices were added.
In 1966, Joseph R. Cooper accepted a call to Bay City to serve as associate pastor. He served until 1969, at which time he answered a call to St. Mark’s Presbyterian Church in San Angelo.
Remodeling of the church was done in 1967. The property on which the manse was located was “traded” to the City of Bay city for the lots facing Avenue H on its West, and between 5th and 6th Streets. A new manse was purchased, located at 2400 Oak Dr. This manse housed pastors until sold by the church in 1995.
The church in 1973
In 1968, after serving this church for more than fourteen years, Dr. Dyal was called to Donna, Texas, where he served until his retirement in 1972.
In 1969, William D. O’Neal accepted a call to come pastor in Bay City. He remained at this church until 1977. In addition to his dedication to this church, the Rev. O’Neal was very active in the community, being a member of the Lions, Exchange, and Rotary Clubs, as well as being a director of the Chamber of Commerce.
The Rev. Frank L. Seaman received a call to Bay City in 1978. During his tenure, the entire church was renovated. First, the sanctuary, followed by Robbins Hall and the church school wing. Additional offices were added and the kitchen was expanded. The annual Lenten Luncheon Series was instituted under the guidance of Mr. Seaman. He also served as pastor concurrently at the Sweeny Presbyterian Church.
In 1986, after serving this church for eight years, the Rev. Seaman was called to Northwood Presbyterian Church in San Antonio, where he served until his retirement in 2001.