lakepalestineumc@gmail.com 903-849-2379

About Our Church

Who We Are

Lake Palestine United Methodist Church is a welcoming community dedicated to spiritual growth, serving our neighbors, and living out the transformative love of Christ. Come learn about our story, mission, and what makes us a unique church family.

"To be a loving church with a mission to worship God, serve and nurture one another, and bring people to meet, know, and love Christ."
Our Story

A Brief History

Our church is a fairly young church — it began in 1998 in a double wide mobile home north of its current location, with services conducted by Dr. Gary Fitzgerald. On December 15, 1999, 29 acres were purchased at the current site of the church. The property had at one time been the old Red Ackers Restaurant, known for its catfish.

Groundbreaking for the building began on October 7, 2001. The Methodist Men and other volunteers built the entire church, and on March 17, 2002, the church was chartered by Bishop Alfred Norris. On July 7, 2002, the first worship service in this facility was conducted.

On December 2, 2007, groundbreaking was started on the amphitheater — the lakeshore worship space that has become one of the most cherished aspects of our church.

Lake Palestine UMC outdoor worship at the lakeshore amphitheater
Our Foundation

What We Believe

We believe the people of the church should put their faith into action by making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the World. John Wesley and early Methodists placed the primary emphasis on Christian living, putting faith and love into action. John Wesley referred to it as "practical divinity," and it has continued to be a hallmark of the UMC today.

Meet Our Pastor

Dr. Jesse Brannen

Dr. Jesse Brannen, pastor of Lake Palestine United Methodist Church

"I am honored to serve as pastor at Lake Palestine UMC. As the pastor of this special congregation on beautiful Lake Palestine, Texas, I believe that God has uniquely positioned this church to have a lasting impact on our community and the world. I hope you join us in this journey."

Dr. Brannen and his wife Susan have been married more than 40 years. They have three grown children and five grandchildren. Dr. Brannen is originally from Kentucky; Susan is from Pennsylvania.

His educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Kentucky Wesleyan College, a Master of Divinity from Southern Methodist University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Midwest University.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are you like?

We are a casual church, so come as you are. No need to dress up. We are more interested in your relationship with God, nurturing one another in our journey with Christ, and supporting each other through life’s joys and challenges.

When are your services?

Every Sunday at 10:30 AM in our Church Sanctuary and live on YouTube. If you are unable to attend or missed the live service online, you may go to YouTube and watch at a later time.

When do you have services outside?

Outdoor services are held on occasion at our lakeshore amphitheater. You can find announcements online when they are scheduled, and we recommend checking Facebook or calling the church for possible weather cancellations.

How long do services last?

Services run about an hour.

Where do I park?

Park in the church parking lot for inside church services. For amphitheater services and events, you can park at the church and walk to the amphitheater, park at the paved side lot, or park at the top of the hill before going down. Disabled individuals can park to the side of the amphitheater or behind the stage. You can stay in your car if you wish.

Where do I sit?

Our sanctuary has individual seating. Some of our chairs feature arm rests to assist you in standing and sitting. At the amphitheater, you can sit on the rock wall, bring your own lawn chair, or stay in your car.

What about my kids?

We currently don’t have children’s Bible School, but they are welcome to join us during service.

How do I get connected in the church?

Send us an email at lakepalestineumc@gmail.com and let us know you have visited. Someone will contact you soon. If you have attended an outside service, come say hello to the pastor before or after the service.

What about tithing?

Your generosity helps support our church and its mission to the community. We offer several convenient ways to give: online through this website, by mailing your gift to the church (in a secure, locked mailbox), or by participating in the offering during our service. See our Giving page for full details.

Ready to Visit?

We would love to see you this Sunday at 10:30 AM. Come as you are and experience the warmth of our church family.

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