Fate and powerful family legacy lead to restoration of historic black church

Growing Vibrant Churches



When Ann Meador first passed by Thomas Chapel UMC in Willis, the historic church took her breath away. “You drive down the street, and you just don’t expect it,” she said. “It’s Victorian Gothic architecture, and very impressive.”

 read more

Intentional Interim Ministry: A conversation with Rev. Bonnie Osteen

Transforming Lay & Clergy Leaders

Imagine a relay race – as a metaphor for pastoral transitions in the UMC. Most of the time, the race continues from runner to runner without a hiccup. But when there are gaps, the baton could be dropped. Something could happen when an interim pastor would be needed.

read more

Discovering your calling: Q & A with Rev. Amy Peters

Transforming Lay & Clergy Leaders

Amy Peters left small-town Texas for divinity school at Duke University, a move she found exhilarating both inside the classroom and out. Getting to know aspiring ministers from around the world and of varying faith backgrounds taught her to value diversity of thought and attitudes about life and religion.

read more

Local ministry helps change lives for immigrant children

Investing in the Young

More than half a million of Houston’s residents are immigrants, meaning hundreds of thousands of children in the city live with all the challenges accompanying their legal status

read more