Testimonials

   In the spring of 2008, Larry and I begin searching for a new church home. We never dreamed that within a few short months First United Methodist Church would be so much more than just a place for us to worship.

    In January 2009 Larry was diagnosed with Small Cell Carcinoma (cancer).  The Friday that we were told the tumor was malignant we both went numb.  We drove home in a daze and when we arrived Bro. Larry had already driven to our home and left a card on our door letting us know that he would be there for us.  That was just the beginning of the loving support from our church family. 

    Our Sunday School Class (Friendship) put their arms around us.  The phone calls, e-mails, meals, cards, and prayers that were supplied were amazing.  Offers to do yard work, take Larry to and from treatments, or just come and sit with him while I worked were just a few of the generous offers that were opened to us. 

    During the time that we were able to attend church in between chemo treatments everyone in the congregation would smile, hug, and let us know their prayers were with us. 

    Some of our treatment was at M.D. Anderson in Houston, Texas.  This meant having to leave our home and staying there for 3 weeks.  About half way through our stay Larry was very tired from all of the radiation and chemo and we both were getting homesick, and the blues.  The next day our cell phone rang and the familiar voice on the other line asked us to open our door and on the other side stood Bro. Larry.  We both felt immediate peace and knew once again God had his hand on us.

    On several occasions we would return home form work, doctors appointments, etc... and check our phone messages.  Bro. Will, Jo Ann, and Kem would be calling to let us know that the staff was about to go into the prayer room and they wanted us to know they would be lifting Larry up in their prayers.

    What a comfort for the two of us to know that God lead us to the most amazing church family whom we would need in so may ways within just a few short months after joining the congregation.

   I don't know if I can put my feelings and love for my church into words.  When I think of First United Methodist Church, I feel happiness and a smile appears upon my face.  When I attend Sunday morning worship services, bible studies, and other events, I receive spiritual uplifting and overall peace. The pastors and members have held my hand and cried with me during my family's difficult times, and laughed with me through the best of times.  It is a wonderful feeling to know that my church is always there for me, and I  rejoice in God's presence, love, and reassurance.

   When I was a third grade teacher at one of the local elementary schools, I received a First Perceptions book from one of my students that attended FUMC. This was my first knowledge of Bro. Larry and his ministry. I read many of the messages in the book and took many of the lessons to heart. Also, after receiving the book, Bro. Larry began ministering to others on the radio each morning. I loved to hear his messages and used many of his Christian lessons to make it through my school day.

   Years later, when my husband and I began contemplating moving to another church, FUMC was first on our list. Because of First Perceptions, I had some background knowledge of Bro. Larry's ministry, and additionally, many of our closest friends attended First United Methodist and wanted us to visit. We set up an appointment with Bro. Larry and immediately realized that FUMC was the place for us. He kindly welcomed us and encouraged us to ask questions. He reminded us that no question was off limits, and he would do his best to help us. He also encouraged us to pray and make our own decision. He never pressured us to join. He said, "Important church decisions take time!"

   I was so impressed with all of the opportunities for Christians to grow in the kingdom of Christ. From teaching Sunday school and adopting schools, to adult bible studies and serving the poor- there was something for everyone. Whether you are a stay-at-home mom or a working mom, there is a committee and time to fit your busy schedule if you are looking to grow in Christ.