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 Dallas United Methodist Church

Open hearts. Open minds. Open doors.

Welcome to Dallas United Methodist Church 

A Brief History:  Our church had its beginnings in 1849.  Nicholas Lee was the primary moving force in gathering families together for worship in homes.  The first church building was completed in 1858.  The original church was built on the corner of Mill and Church Streets, the current location of the Post Office.  In November 1970, the congregation moved into a new facility at our present location.  In 1984, the Education Wing was completed.  In 1999, we celebrated our sesquicentennial (150 years) of serving the community of Dallas.

About our People:  We are made up of all kinds of people.  In fact, we celebrate our differences and believe we are stronger for the many diverse gifts we bring.  We strive to be a church with "open hearts, open minds, open doors."  Our congregation has 170 members with an average worship attendance of 95.  Within our "family" you will find educators, farmers, retirees, homemakers, state workers, artists, students, musicians, journalists, nurses, and more.  What brings us together is our common faith journey and desire to serve Jesus by serving others.

Worship:  We are a creatively traditional church.  Communion is celebrated the first Sunday of each month and is open to all.  We invite you to participate to the degree you are comfortable.  The ushers/greeters are here to assist you and answer your questions.  Families are encouraged to worship together.  We have professional child care providers for infants and younger children.  A "nursery cry room" is also available alongside the sanctuary for parents who need to step out with an infant.

 Sunday School:  Sunday School is held 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. during the school year. Currently, there is one adult class facilitated by the pastor and is held in the West Room of the education wing.  Children's Sunday School is divided into age groups: Pre-K, 1st-3rd, 4th-6th, and 7th-12th.  We have dedicated volunteers who work (and play) with our children, teaching them the stories of the Bible and Christian values.

Small Groups:  Women’s Faith Bible Study, Prayer Circle, Parent’s With Young Children,  Men’s Group, Sewing Group, Book Club, Women’s Susanna Wesley Circle, Spiritual Growth Group.

Choir:  We are very proud of our small choir.  They rehearse on Wednesdays, 6:30 - 8 p.m. and perform most Sundays except during summer.  New members are always welcome.  Our choir director, Connie Biddinger, brings the best out of our singers and makes rehearsals a joy to attend.

About the Pastor: Rev Jeremy Hajdu-Paulen came to our church in July 2006. Before arriving in Dallas, Jeremy served as the campus minister at the Wesley Foundation United Methodist Campus Ministry at the University of Oregon in Eugene. Originally from Pennsylvania, Jeremy attended seminary at the Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, Georgia. From 2001-2002 he had the unique experience of living in England while serving three small British Methodist Churches. Jeremy enjoys hearing people’s stories, having great conversations over coffee, and leading nourishing worship. He also likes to read, ride his bike around town, and watch British sitcoms. He and his wife, Allison, have one daughter named Miriam. Together they enjoy traveling, hiking, and camping.

Pipe Organ:  We have been told by professionals that our pipe organ is one of the best of the organs in the Marion/Polk County area. We currently have three organists who take turns sharing their talents during worship.

Unique and Community Ministries: 

Labyrinth:  We have an outdoor labyrinth nestled in our forest of trees for prayer and meditation. 

Library: The church library is located in the Education Wing and has a variety of books that you are welcome to check out. 

Back to School Backpack Program: Helping to fill the needs of students at LaCreole Middle School, our neighbors to our south.

Community Church Night at Dallas Aquatic Center:  We are one of several participating churches who sponsor a free swim opportunity for families once a month.