On his way back to Round Rock, Texas, Dr. Buhl heard the voice of the Holy Spirit speak to him again, showing him that the road before him was the same one-way road he had taken to get there. He knew this would be the name of the new church, One Way Baptist Church. He shared this vision with his brother, Rev. Carl L. Buhl, Jr., and he supported his new mission. Several former members supported the new work and The One Way Baptist Church (OWBC) was established in February 1996 in Round Rock, Texas.
The first worship service and communion took place on March 3, 1996, in Dr. Buhl's living room at 1522 Latigo Trace. The church then moved to 1301 E. Main Street, a converted carport of a member's home, where regular services were held. In April 1996, OWBC became officially recognized as a formal church. The membership grew steadily, drawing people from surrounding communities.
By September 1996, OWBC partnered with the Fellowship at Forest Creek, formerly Trinity Baptist Church, which became its mother church. This partnership allowed OWBC to join the Williamson Baptist Association and the Baptist General Convention of Texas, enabling the church to expand its efforts. Rapid membership growth led to the need for two Sunday morning worship services starting in October 1996.
In February 1997, they moved to 655 E. Palm Valley Blvd., leasing property from St. Richard’s Episcopal Church. This location's "one way in, one way out" entrance served as a symbolic reminder of God's provision and the church's mission. By October 1999, OWBC had become financially independent and became recognized as an autonomous church.
In September 2001, OWBC purchased 2.7 acres of land and a 10,000 sq. ft. facility on 2107 Hairy Man Road, which included a 2000 sq. ft. parsonage. The church continued to grow, adding new ministries and leaders. In 2002, OWBC introduced a Youth Worship service, further enhancing its Youth Ministry.
By August 2007, OWBC launched a six-year campaign called “Beyond the Walls, The Other Side of the Wall, and Why These Walls” to focus more on community outreach. They established a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, “The Voice,” aiming to impact, empower, and enrich the community through mentoring and partnerships with local organizations.
OWBC celebrated its 21st anniversary on October 21, 2016, by retiring its $1.2 million mortgage. Through “The Voice,” they have awarded over $244,000 in scholarships and partnered with local entities to host events like the Juneteenth Celebration and the “Rhythm and Ribs Festival,” which has grown significantly since its inception.
OWBC focused on its mission of "Becoming Disciples for Christ," transitioning to the brand "We are Disciples for Christ." As the church continues to grow and fulfill its mission, they remain confident that the best is yet to come, always moving forward in faith and seeking to make a difference for the glory of God.
Dr. Buhl’s saying, “Your way is not the way until you have tried God's way, which is the only way for The One Way Baptist Church!” OWBC has always been committed to displaying Christ through outreach, worship, biblical education, and Christian fellowship. In March 2020, church service was suspended due to the COVID pandemic. Our founding Pastor’s health issues led to his decision to retire in 2021. Being led by the Spirit, he spoke to our current Pastor, his brother, about becoming the new Pastor of OWBC. Pastor Samuel L Buhl, Sr. has been preaching since September 11, 1983. He accepted the call from God to become our new Shepherd on April 11, 2021, and was installed as Pastor of The One Way Baptist Church on July 25, 2021, along with his late wife, Aterna L. Buhl, otherwise known as, Lady A or BBQ (Black Beautiful Queen).
On July 21, 2022, after a four-and-a-half-year long battle with cancer, God called our precious Lady A home. Together they have 5 adult children, and 15 grandchildren. With the help of his loving family and the loving support of the church Pastor Buhl persevered, never missing a worship experience and preaching a Powerful Word from the Lord!
God gave Pastor Samuel L. Buhl, Sr. a new Purpose, Vision and Mission for The One Way Baptist Church.
Reaching Upward through Prayer, Praise and Worship.
Reaching Inward by Caring Relationships, Accountability, Spiritual Growth.
Reaching Outward in Community Service, Evangelism, World Missions.
Pastors' vision included major renovations and improvements to our facilities and grounds.
Pastor Buhl’s commitment to the members and leadership of OWBC has led to the increase in membership that has impacted every ministry in the church. We are “The Church that loves God, Serves People by Reaching People with God’s Love”.
Pastor is committed to preaching the uncompromised Word of God, with great power and authority with the hope of saving many souls for Christ!
In Pastor Buhl famous words “I love you and I am praying for you, likewise, you do the same, smile, and whatever you do, #Don’tLetTheDeveilStealYourJoy!
