Message From The Pastors

MESSAGE FROM PASTOR LANCE

June 14, 2025

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… God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.”  — Romans 5:5 (NRSV)

Dear Church Family,

This Sunday, we pause to celebrate the mystery and beauty of the Triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—on Trinity Sunday, even as we honor the love, guidance, and faithfulness of earthly fathers and father figures on Father’s Day.

As part of our current sermon series, “Spirit-Led,” we welcome Dr. Brant Wallace to the pulpit with a message titled “The True Father.” Grounded in Romans 5:1–5, Brant will invite us to consider how God the Father, in Christ the Son through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, forms us into a people of peace, perseverance, and hope. It is a fitting message for a day when we remember the power of both human love and divine grace to shape our lives.

Romans 5 reminds us that “God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.” That’s not just theological poetry—it’s a living truth. The same Spirit who hovered at creation, who filled the Church at Pentecost, and who speaks peace into our storms, is still at work today, forming us in love and strengthening us with hope that does not disappoint.

Next Monday-Friday, a group of our children, students, and adult volunteers will be attending summer camp at Lakeview. Please join me in praying for their safety, spiritual growth, and Spirt-filled experiences as they connect with God and each other in the beauty of God’s creation.  Pray also for good weather!

In this season of transition, I also ask the you join me in prayer for:

  • Pastor Lindsay and her family as they say goodbye to their beloved congregation at Asbury UMC and prepare for their move and ministry at First UMC Houston, and
  • Pastor Steven and his family as they continue to walk through ongoing health challenges with courage, grace, and the suppot of our church family.

Click here for ways to support Pastor Lindsay, Pastor Steven, and their families.

As we reflect on the love of the Father, the peace of Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit, may we be reminded: we are not alone. We are led by our God who holds all things together, who pours love into every weary heart, and who is building in us a hope that will never fail.

Rev. Lance Richards
Senior Pastor
[email protected]

Previous Messages From The Pastor

Here’s Some Of What Else Is Happening At First Methodist!

red, white, and blue jeans campaign

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Save the date for Vacation Bible Camp at First Methodist Houston. More details will follow at a later date.

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Quillian Center offers several programs for our children and youth. We are currently in need of volunteers. Let us know how you you would like to help!

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Kidz Night Out is hosted several Friday nights per month, and it’s just for kids. Children between the ages of 5 to 14 will engage in a fun, energetic and safe environment focused on keeping the children active. They will have the opportunity to hang out with friends, interact with a professional and fun loving […]

Lifeline Donations

Lifeline is in need of some specific donations as we get into the summer months. As the weather gets hot, Lifeline has found itself short of a number of items our homeless community is in need of. If you are able, please purchase or donate any of these items and drop them off in the […]

NIA Weekly Volunteer Ministries

Neighbors in Action is looking for volunteers for our weekly volunteer ministries. Please contact Kathrin Meier for more information: [email protected]

Volunteers Needed

Get Involved! If you’re interested in being a part of the ministry of First Methodist Houston, but aren’t sure where you might fit, scan the QR code and find out! Take our volunteer accelerator quiz, or scroll through the opportunities available and see what feels right to you.