LH Family YMCA
First Global Methodist Church Dallas is now meeting Sundays at the Lake Highlands Family YMCA. The newly formed congregation began meeting in member homes, then shared space with Fellowship Dallas in the former movie theater at Park Lane and 75.
“We see our move into the Lake Highlands Family YMCA as a great way to be in ministry with the people of this area,” said FGMCD Pastor Jill Jackson-Sears. “We worked with the leadership of the Lake Highlands Family YMCA to develop the newly renovated prayer room, a lovely space where people can spend time with God. We worship every Sunday at 9:15 a.m. followed by discipleship groups for all ages. During the week, we also offer study opportunities in the YMCA community room. We work hand-in-hand with the Lake Highlands Family YMCA to care for the whole person.”
Jackson-Sears was senior pastor at Lake Highlands United Methodist Church in January of 2023 when that congregation and many others around the country were wrestling with the question of whether to depart from the denomination over LGBTQ issues. In an all-church vote, LHUMC chose to remain a part of the UMC system. Jackson-Sears and some LHUMC parishioners broke away and formed FGMCD.
“First Global Methodist Church Dallas is deeply committed to help people know and love God, grow in our faith in Jesus Christ, and go into the world to share His Truth and love through the power of the Holy Spirit. We accomplish this vision through intentional discipleship, passionate worship, biblical study, and joyful generosity,” she said.
Brian Haines, vice-president of operations for the YMCA, says it’s not uncommon for YMCAs to lend their space to churches or other community organizations.
“There are many YMCAs across the nation who rent their facilities to churches on Sunday mornings when the facility is not open for membership and programs,” he told me. “GMC was the first church who approached us about a rental agreement. We evaluated that opportunity as we do all others and welcome all members of our community at the Y.”
Jackson-Sears isn’t sure if or when FGMCD will acquire their own building, but she said finding a church home in the neighborhood has been a blessing.
“Every church has its challenges, and a new church is no different. God has given us big dreams to make an impact for Him in this community. We carefully and prayerfully prioritize our mission and ministry efforts, so that we can maximize the gifts that God has given us. We serve alongside our sister church, The New Room Community Church, in caring for our neighbors in material poverty. We have also established mentoring relationships with twenty Richland College students, who participate in F.O.C.U.S. Campus Ministry. Surprisingly, every challenge has become an opportunity for us to reach new people with the joy of Jesus.”
You may learn more about FGMCD here.
