A haven of faith nestled in the Texas Hill Country. That’s Helotes Hills United Methodist Church. Its story begins on July 3 1966. A small group of Methodists under Reverend J Roy Hilliard’s guidance formed the church. Eighteen people joined this new congregation.
For a time services were held in homes. They also used a small rock building near their land. This later became the Helotes Art Guild building and the Forest Hills Presbyterian Church. This shows the interconnectedness of the community’s religious life.
February 19 1967 marked a milestone. The first part of the church complex opened. It was called the L K Stemen Educational Building. This contained a sanctuary restrooms a pastor’s study and classrooms. The official dedication was on May 21 1967. Bishop O Eugene Slater presided. Ninety-one members joined marking the closing of charter memberships. A dedication dinner celebrated the occasion at the Grey Moss Inn.
In 1968 the Methodist Church merged with the Evangelical United Brethren Church. This created the United Methodist Church. Helotes Hills Methodist Church thus became Helotes Hills United Methodist Church. This reflects a broader shift in American Protestantism.
Later in 1974 the Helotes Optimist Club Helotes Hills UMC and Boy Scout Troop 401 partnered. They created the Playground and Recreation Center or P A R C. It’s a testament to community collaboration. Volunteer labor and donated materials built the P A R C. Additions were made in 1987 and 1994 expanding the church and its facilities.
The sanctuary was remodeled and expanded in 1994 under Reverend Peter Aguilar. In 2016 the sanctuary narthex and the PARC building were also remodeled. These expansions reflect the church’s growing congregation. The church continues to serve as a spiritual center for the community. It’s a place of worship fellowship and community outreach. Helotes Hills United Methodist Church remains a beacon of faith in Helotes. A vibrant community where people learn to love God love one another and serve the world.