History of FHUMC

TowerFloral Heights United Methodist Church originated at a session of the fourth quarterly conference at First M. E. Church South (present First United Methodist Church) of Wichita Falls held on October 29, 1919. At that meeting, a Board of Stewards was elected for the new church. They met for the first formal session on Sunday, November 2, 1919. The congregation met in temporary facilities until the taberncle was erected at Tenth and Denver as the first home for Floral Heights Methodist Church. The young congregation exercised great faith and pioneer spirit and completed in 1921 the part of the building at Tenth and Polk known today as the "original building."

By the 1950's the church had outgrown its space and the congregation built a new sanctuary and chapel. As the church grew so did the need for expanded educational facilities. The houses that were still on the block were torn down and the present educational building was completed in 1962.

By 1976 it was determined that some major renovations were needed because of the age of the original building. After two years of a congregational-wide survey of needs and interests a multi-step program of building and renovation was proposed and adopted. The $750,000 program resulted in a new activities building, remodeling in the chancel area, outside improvements, plus a total new system for heating and cooling. It was dedicated in September of 1979 with 14 of 21 charter members in attaendance.

Stained GlassDuring the high point in members, 3400 names were on the roll of the church. The economic struggles of the 1960's in Wichita Falls were reflected by a decline in membership. However, the church maintained its strong interest in helping others through Christian Educaion for all ages and through mission. Music has also been a large and important facet of this church. The congregation has been served by 16 senior pastors, approximately 32 associate pastors, as well as a large number of lay staff members who have contributed to its development.

1979 was a memorable and successful year in spite of the tornado of April 10 which saw 105 families endure destruction to their homes. Floral Heights assumed as early role of leadership in the relief and recovery for the city, functioning within and hour as a shelter for the homeless. During the summer months, nearly 300 youth from various churches across the county came to help clear debris and to help rebuild. During that time they were housed and fed at the church.

Since that time our church has continued to be involved in many different ways to help serve humanity. The Food Pantry, Youth Mission Trips, Latchkey, Midwestern State University Scholarships, Mother's Day Out, and ICU are just some of the groups that serve.

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