Lights shine again for Mooreville UMC
Mooreville United Methodist Church suffered a tragic loss on Feb. 7, 2019, when a fire totally destroyed the 108 year old sanctuary which was recognized by the Texas Historical Commission.
The congregation is now worshiping in a new million dollar sanctuary made possible by generosity, dedication, hard work, love and prayers of so many people and organizations both local and distant. This was brought together with the goal of continued existence of this beloved church. Many churches in the Central Texas Conference and many local churches made generous donations to help launch a building campaign.
Credit is due to the many volunteer fire departments whose members responded and with heroic efforts saved the Fellowship Hall while battling strong winds blowing flames toward it. This enabled the church to continue worship and its outreach ministry throughout the two years following the fire. With the new building, the Fellowship Hall is now connected to the main structure.
Local work began when the membership approved plans for a new facility and employed K4 Construction of Waco, Texas. Mike Davis was appointed chairman of the building committee which consisted of four others: Ryan Ford, Dennis Cheyne, Dawn Smith, and Lanette Mirick. A fund raising committee was also formed. All members and friends worked diligently, individually and collectively, as the congregation watched their dreams become a reality.
Work on the church is basically complete with consecration services having been held on Aug. 29, 2021, and conducted by Bishop Mike Lowery of the Central Texas Conference. Pastor at the time of the fire was Dennis Rejcek. On July 1, 2021, Kevin Diggs was appointed as Mooreville’s pastor.
Fundraisers are still important because improvements to the grounds and the parking areas are ongoing projects. The next event planned is a 5K run or walk on Feb. 5, 2022. The run starts at 9 a.m. and registration can be done online at www.runsignup.com. Divisions and prizes by age and gender will be presented. This will be the 4th annual Groundhog “Chase Your Shadow” run and looks to be the biggest and best. A bake sale will be held on that day, and healthy snacks will be available for all of the runners.
We encourage you to drive by the church at night and view the beautiful lighted stained glass windows. The public always has an invitation to attend Sunday morning service beginning as 10:30 a.m. preceded by Sunday school for all ages at 9:30 a.m. On Wednesday nights at 5:30 p.m. there is a Midweek Manna during which time there is a meal, a devotional, choir practice and fellowship for all ages. All are always welcome. The church is located a 206 FM 2643 in Chilton in the heart of the Mooreville Community.