Friendship-West Baptist Church was founded in 1976 by Rev. Robert L. Castle III, beginning with nine worshippers at a Dallas dance school before relocating several times as it grew. Rev. Frederick D. Haynes III has served as senior pastor since 1983, building the congregation to more than 13,400 members with over 45 ministries. The church directs at least ten percent of its income to community outreach under its "Beyond the Walls" philosophy and supports a partner congregation in Zimbabwe.