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One of Elgin’s longest standing places of worship recently welcomed in a new pastor with over two decades of experience and an extensive background in service.
Reverand Michael Bell joined the First United Methodist Church of Elgin team last month, during its 150th anniversary year. “Reverand Bell represents the future of our church amidst the celebration of our past heritage,” the church said.
Bell relocated to Elgin with his wife Joya and 10-year-old rescue “fur baby” after pastoring in Hilda United Methodist Church for eight years and serving San Angelo for 11, where he merged two historical congregations into the Wesley Trinity United Methodist Church.
The Central West Texas church was active in community ministry, serving lunch to almost 200 people daily through the Daily Bread Lunch Program, according to the church.
Bell comes from a food service background, having operated a restaurant and catering facility with his parents in Corpus Christi. A lifelong Methodist, he went on to enter the Course of Study School at Perkins School of Theology in Dallas. He completed the second-career pastor program in the summer of 2009, while serving as a full-time pastor.
According to Bell, his call to ministry came over time “through the places God was placing him to serve” – working with the homeless, prison ministry, teaching Sunday School, lay leadership of his home church in Corpus Christi and a lot of prayer.
“We are thrilled to welcome Pastor Michael Bell to the First United Methodist Church of Elgin,” added the church. “After a year of prayer, reflection and revitalization of ministries, we look forward to his capable leadership as we move forward seeking God’s purpose in our community.”
The church welcomes residents to call, write or meet Bell in Sunday morning worship or at its sesquicentennial celebration next month, honoring seven generations of impact in the area.
Call 512-285-4803 or email [email protected] for more information.
