OLUMC: 150 Years of Oak Lawn UMC - Oak Lawn United Methodist Church

A community just as historic as it’s building!

We are in the midst of celebrating 150 years at Oak Lawn United Methodist Church; at the corner of Oak Lavn & Cedar Springs!

The History of Oak Lawn United Methodist Church: 150 Years (2024-25)

1874 – Founding of Oak Lawn UMC

The church was established to serve a growing population in Dallas. Originally a small congregation, Oak Lawn UMC expanded rapidly, driven by the faith and dedication of its early members who aimed to create a close-knit, supportive community in a fast-developing area.

1913-1918 – Building a New Sanctuary:

In the early 1920s, the church saw significant growth, and a larger sanctuary was built to accommodate the increased membership. This Gothic Revival structure, with its stained-glass windows and prominent bell tower, became a landmark in the Oak Lawn neighborhood.

1950s-80s – Growth and Community Outreach:

During the post-World War II boom, Oak Lawn UMC expanded its community outreach and social ministries, establishing itself as a center for neighborhood events and gatherings. The church became a place where people from all walks of life could come together in faith.

19XX – The HIV/AIDS Crisis in Dallas & the Oak Lawn Neighborhood

Re-write

XX – Reconciling Ministry:

In 1972, Oak Lawn UMC became one of the first Methodist churches in Dallas to openly welcome LGBTQ+ individuals. As a “reconciling congregation,” Oak Lawn UMC committed itself to inclusivity, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and providing a safe space for all, a significant and bold step at the time.

XX – Reconciling Ministry:

2000s – Expanding Programs for Outreach and Care:
During this decade, the church expanded programs to address contemporary challenges, including support groups, pastoral care, and community service initiatives. Oak Lawn UMC continued to emphasize its commitment to meeting the spiritual, emotional, and practical needs of all who came through its doors.

XX – Reconciling Ministry:

2010 – Establishing the Gracia Viva Ministry:
In 2010, Oak Lawn UMC launched Gracia Viva, a bilingual and bicultural ministry to meet the needs of the growing Hispanic and Latinx population in the area. This ministry furthered the church’s mission to be a home for people from all backgrounds, with services and programs in both Spanish and English.

XX – Reconciling Ministry:

2016 – Refugee and Immigration Support:
Responding to the humanitarian crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border, Oak Lawn UMC began supporting immigrants and refugees in Dallas, partnering with organizations to provide shelter, food, and spiritual support for asylum seekers. The church became a crucial part of the local response to immigration needs, a mission that continues today.

XX – Reconciling Ministry:

2020 – Pandemic and Virtual Ministry:
When COVID-19 hit, Oak Lawn UMC adapted by moving its services and ministries online. The church expanded its digital outreach to provide spiritual support in a time of social distancing and health crises, continuing its mission of inclusivity even in a virtual format.

XX – Reconciling Ministry:

With the rise in legislation affecting LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly transgender youth and their families, Oak Lawn UMC increased its pastoral care offerings. The church provided a sanctuary for families impacted by these laws, offering resources and guidance in a challenging political climate.