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   Pastor Beverly would like to give her Pastor's Post newsletter space to this important message from Bishop Ruben Saenz, Jr.

A Word From Our Bishop

Responding with Faith and Action:

Flood Recovery in Central Texas

Companions in Christ,

Over the weekend, the Guadalupe region of Central Texas was struck by devastating floods—waters that rose swiftly, leaving behind broken homes and aching hearts. The pain is real and raw. We mourn with those who have lost loved ones, who now face uncertainty, and whose lives have been upended in the blink of an eye.

Yet, even as the floodwaters recede, the tide of our care and compassion must rise. In these moments of heartbreak, we are reminded that the Church is not a building—it is a people. A people who pray. A people who serve. A people who show up for one another, embodying the love of Christ when the world feels most fragile.

As United Methodists, our calling is clear: to respond with compassion, prayer and tangible action. The Horizon Texas Conference is working hand-in-hand with our siblings in the Rio Texas Conference to assess the full scope of the impact across our conferences. Together, we are discerning where our presence and resources are most needed today, and in the long journey ahead.

Rev. Jeremy Basset, our disaster response coordinator, is on the ground this week, walking alongside local partners and neighbors. Our Emergency Response Teams are trained and ready, prepared to step in as soon as local officials and conference partners request our presence.

When disaster strikes, the question is not “Will we respond?” but “How will we respond?” Here are three ways you and your congregation can make a difference right now:

Give Financially

The most effective way to help at this moment is through financial contributions. I am calling for a special, conference-wide offering to directly support relief and recovery efforts in the communities impacted by the floods, which span the Rio and Horizon Texas Conferences. Every gift, no matter the size, becomes a lifeline of hope.

Volunteer Your Time and Skills

If you or members of your congregation feel called to serve, please let us know by completing the volunteer interest form linked here. Rev. Basset will work to match volunteers with emerging needs, ensuring that your gifts meet real, immediate challenges.

Prepare for Future Needs

At present, there are enough flood buckets available in Central Texas. However, we anticipate a need to replenish supplies as recovery continues. Learn more about flood buckets here, and watch for future conference updates with details on when and where to deliver flood buckets.



Please continue to lift up affected communities, families and first responders in your prayers. Pray for strength, for healing and for the courage to hope. As we walk alongside those who are grieving and rebuilding, may we be a source of light and a living testimony to the love that binds us together, even in the darkest valleys.

Let us be the Church, today and every day.

Together in Faith, Hope, and Love,

Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr.

Horizon Texas Conference

The United Methodist Church

Pray, Pray, Pray!

We welcome our new Mid-South and South District Superintendent Rev. Dr. Mary Spradlin! Look for a future introductory newsletter article about the life and ministry of Dr. Spradlin.

I want to offer a HUGE thank you to Rebecca for bringing the message on June 29, 2025, in my absence. I had FULL confidence in her ability to communicate God’s Word. I regret not giving you this information concerning her journey BEFORE that Sunday, but that will not be the last time she gives a message. Let me tell you the “gift” we have in Rebecca Caldwell. This is her story:  

    “After leaving the Catholic faith, we joined the Reformed Church of America, (Crystal Cathedral). Keith and I soon became Elders in the faith and decided to take the 2 year MAT, (Minister Associate Training). I then went on for another 2 years to become a Lay Pastor for the RCA. We then, moved to Texas and joined the Presbyterian Church. I became a Shepherd, (much like Beverly Tuggle) and then an Elder; and after 2 years of classes with Mission Presbytery, (much like our District). I became a Ruling Elder. With encouragement from my Pastor, I continued taking classes at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary; and upon completion, became a Lay Pastor, just before we moved to Killeen. Professionally, I retired from Disneyland, in Anaheim, following 20+ years as an Administrative Assistant, supporting Vice Presidents in various lines of business.”

    So, friends, as you can see, Rebecca Caldwell comes with a wealth of experience, and training in ministry, from various faith traditions. We are thankful she and Keith have chosen to join the United Methodist Church Denominational Family and specifically, our First United Methodist Church family. They are a valuable part of our congregation.

    Rebecca is also a master gardener. She, Keith, and her grandson, Shaun have been working on the beautification of one of our islands. The project is almost finished!

A WORD ABOUT KEITH

    Keith is a gifted carpenter and artist. I have seen the magnificent “beauty” that he brings to the canvas. Some of his pieces are truly, “not of this world.” They look to be “heaven sent.” Just in case you do not know it…when you see the replica of the church with the “roof off,” this is the work of Keith Caldwell’s hands. Please take the time to really look at each of the intricate details on the church. Keith was very intentional about everything he chose, in terms of color and design. We give God thanks for this couple who share their many gifts with our congregation.

- For Your Information -

For the protection and safety of all members, please be aware that all rooms and classrooms may be locked throughout the day, when not in use. We will continue to keep the CDC entry doors locked on Sunday mornings until further notice. We appreciate your understanding.

- Welcome Jessica Bain! -

Welcome Jessica Bain! Jessica has been hired as the part-time custodian who is replacing Maria Moreno. She is new to the position, but by no means is she new to the church. Jessica has been attending First United Methodist Church, Killeen, since the church was in the downtown location. Jessica is the daughter of our precious, Jeff and Dagmar Bain. You have often seen her working alongside her parents, in a multitude of capacities, here at our church. Jessica is wearing “two hats” at First United Methodist Church, Killeen.



Jessica is also our new...

Children's Ministry Team Leader!

She will also be serving part-time, as the Children’s Ministry Team leader. Jessica has been voluntarily helping in our children and youth ministries for many years. Most recently, she served as Assembly Leader for VBS this summer AND taught a VBS class. She is excited about joining our staff; and we are excited to have her. 

Congratulation to John Karlik, who was nominated by Colleen Smith-Fey for the Daniel Stark’s Be Remarkable award. The Be Remarkable award is given to recognize and award "remarkable" individuals, who go above and beyond to positively impact the lives others and make a difference in their community. John was one of the winners! Congratulation John! We are proud of you!

- Pasta with the Pastor -

"You are invited to come have pasta with the Pastor"

Come join Pastor Bev for pasta on Saturday, July 19th, at 1:00 pm in the Youth Room (right next to the Gary and John Helen Purser Fellowship Hall).

We welcome: (listed alphabetically by family)   

• Reta Cardinal
• Gayle Hargrave
• Johnny Simmons & Colleen Cole
• Nile Townsend
• Jessie & La Tanya Nichols & son, Dylan age 12, (Tobias, 3 & Sadie, 2)
• Dana Wheaten, Priscilla Nall & daughters, Emma and Isabela Wheaten

If by chance, you have recently joined the church; and your name is not on this list, please know it was not intentional. Please call the church office, so that we can offer you a hearty welcome. 

- Opportunities at FUMC - Killeen -

Click to view the Church Calendar

Below is a list of highlighted events for the upcoming week. Items in italics indicate off-site events. Click on the link above to view the full church calendar.

Sunday, July 13

8:00 AM & 11:00 AM | Worship

9:30 AM | Adult Sunday School Classes & Emmaus Prayer Group

9:30 AM | Guiding Young Minds (GYM) Sunday School Class

Monday, July 14

8:30 AM | Frisch Park Workday

5:30 PM | Fun Raiser Committee Meeting

Tuesday, July 15

10:00 AM | Dominoes Group

10:30 AM | Quilting Circle

Wednesday, July 16

9:00 AM | CDC Kinder Dance

10:30 AM | Morning Bible Study with Ken Smith

5:00 PM | Deeper Waters Bible Study w/ Snack Meal

Thursday, July 17

Friday, July 18

8:30 AM | Frisch Park Workday

Saturday, July 19

1:00 PM | Pasta with the Pastor

Sunday, July 20

8:00 AM & 11:00 AM | Worship

9:30 AM | Adult Sunday School Classes & Emmaus Prayer Group

9:30 AM | Guiding Young Minds (GYM) Sunday School Class

4:00 PM | Youth Group Meeting

Save the Date

July 27 | The HTCUMC Annual Conference 2025 Lay Report will be given by Ken Smith after both services.

General Fund/Building Fund Offering

**Note - Totals are tallied from Tuesday to Monday of the following week after the Sunday offering is reported. If there is a Monday holiday, the Sunday offering will be entered on Tuesday but the reporting will be added to the previous week's tally to ensure we always have a Sunday offering included in each week's totals.

Total Attendance for June

Please report all your small group attendance to the office after each meeting or email your attendance to the church office. Thank you!