Good Shepherd United Methodist Church

On a crisp December day in 1893, the seeds of faith were sown. The very first worship service of what would eventually become Good Shepherd United Methodist Church took place. It wasn’t in a grand sanctuary, but in the humble Winningkoff School. Good Shepherd United Methodist Church’s journey began in simplicity. The congregation eventually moved to Blythe Chapel Methodist Church in Winningkoff in 1896. Imagine attending church in the 1930s and 40s, traveling by horse and buggy down dusty dirt roads. Winningkoff was a small community, with a school, a church, a blacksmith, and a drug store by 1945. Nearby Lucas was also small, with a population of just 100, two stores, a gin, a school, a public softball field, and two churches. The landscape changed dramatically in 1953 with the completion of the Lavon Dam. The waters rose, covering parts of Winningkoff, reshaping the community and its history. The church building itself embarked on a journey, relocating to Lucas in 1967 and becoming the First United Methodist Church of Lucas. A new sanctuary rose in 1980, marking a new chapter for the congregation. Years passed, filled with growth and milestones. A new parsonage was built in 1995. In 2007, the church voted to change its name to Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, embracing a new identity while honoring its rich past. The burning of the mortgage in 2010 was a joyous occasion, a testament to the community’s dedication and faithfulness. A pavilion was dedicated in 2014, offering a space for fellowship and connection. The convenience of a concrete parking lot arrived in 2016. Most recently, in 2023, the Rose Marie Childs Fellowship Center opened its doors, providing a welcoming space for community gatherings and events. Good Shepherd United Methodist Church stands today as a testament to the enduring power of faith. It’s a place where history and hope intertwine.