Open Doors, New Faces: Manchaca UMC Welcomes Nearly 30 New Members

Hannah Ortiz

Communications Consultant, Rio Texas Conference

Information/photos submitted by: Kendall Carroll

MUMC Communication Specialist

Manchaca United Methodist Church is experiencing a season of meaningful growth—rooted in intentional welcome, community connection, and a commitment to inclusion.

On Easter morning, the congregation welcomed 550 people across four worship services, including its Spanish-language service. The day marked a significant milestone as 22 people officially joined the church and six were baptized, contributing to roughly 30 new members received in recent weeks.

For many, that decision to join came from a deep sense of belonging.

“I grew up on the west side of Chicago in a large EUB congregation that later became Methodist,” said new member Arthur Reis. “Coming to Austin 12 years ago from Boston, I attended St. John’s Presbyterian Church until it closed last year. Your amazing pastor, front window, doors, and welcomers really made us feel like we belonged here. Glad we joined.”

Others echoed that experience of authenticity and lived values.

“Manchaca United Methodist Church stood out to us as a church that genuinely practices its values,” said Emerald Rosales. “It’s welcoming to everyone, beautifully maintained, and full of engaging activities for all ages—especially children. I love being part of a community that’s both organized and full of life.”

Church leaders say that growth has been building over the past several years, as more visitors have connected with the congregation and taken steps toward membership. During Lent, the church offered a membership preparation class covering United Methodist history, doctrine, and ways to get involved—helping people from a wide range of faith backgrounds find a common foundation.

That diversity is reflected in the newest class of members, which includes lifelong Methodists, people new to faith, a first-generation Christian, multigenerational families, and individuals from five different nationalities.

A visible sign of that welcome begins before people even step inside.

Manchaca UMC’s rainbow-colored doors have become a symbol of the church’s commitment to inclusion. Many new members shared that the doors signaled clearly that they would be accepted and valued.

The church’s growing Spanish-language ministry has also played a key role. Launched recently, the ministry is already helping the congregation better connect with its surrounding community. Of the newest members, 12 are Hispanic, with several actively participating in the Spanish-language service.

While still in its early stages, leaders say the ministry is already shaping the future of the church.

Together, these efforts reflect a congregation not only growing in numbers but deepening its identity as a place where all people can find connection, faith, and belonging.