An account of the early history of st-francis-episcopal-church written by founding members Jim and Betty Morris.

1986–1991: Mission Beginnings

• 1986–1987: The Diocese of East Tennessee (ECSET) initiates expansion discussions, focusing on the Ooltewah area.
• 1988: 3.4 acres purchased at Providence Road and Ooltewah-Georgetown Road for $65,000.
• May 1991: Bishop Sanders appoints a planning committee to coordinate the new mission.
• September 1991: Interest meeting (~60 attendees) led by Bishop Sanders and Bishop Tharp. The Rev. Buckley Robbins is introduced as the first vicar. The church stands as the last mission of Bishop Sanders and the first of Bishop Tharp.

1991–1992: Courthouse and Name

• Meeting Place: The congregation leased and renovated the old James County Courthouse.
• First Service: Held November 3, 1991 (All Saints Day), with 51 attendees.
• Naming: Initially known as "Ooltewah Episcopal Fellowship" and jokingly referred to as "St. Sumthenuruther" before Bishop Tharp suggested "Ooltewah Episcopal Church" as a temporary name.
• 1992 Milestones: First marriage blessing, funeral, Mary-Martha Chapter of the Daughters of the King, and first mission Council.