After many of the United Methodists Churches in the southeastern plains of NM disaffiliated, there were faithful people who wanted to remain United Methodists left behind. These strong people have joined to continue to provide a United Methodist expression in that area.
A group in Carlsbad has been meeting in the old Monte Sinai church. They’re led by retired pastor, Stephanie Harmon and lay leader and New Church Development (NCD) Committee member, Hollie Harris. There are about 50 people worshipping in their faith community – New Church UMC-Carlsbad. Following church on Sundays, they use a facility across from the church to offer free meals to people in need in their community.
The Hobbs group are meeting in a conference room at their local hospital. They are calling themselves Hobbs’ New First UMC. There are about 30 people attending, led by Kim & David Portillo. DS & New Church Development Committee Member, Ross Whiteaker reports that they also have a mission focus of ministering to the health professionals at the hospital.
This past weekend, a team of NCD committee members: Ross, Rev. Dr. Todd Seelau and Rev. D.G. Hollums traveled to Carlsbad and held a retreat with the Carlsbad and Hobbs groups to help them discern a path forward. On Sunday, Ross preached at New Carlsbad and D.G. preached at Hobbs’ New First UMC.
Please hold these new faith communities up in your prayers.