Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church has a long history of providing inspiration and Christian love to our community.

If you are looking for a loving church home where people know your name and miss you if you are not at worship services, visit us at Mt. Tabor!

History

In 1873, after a brush arbor revival, a community leader named John McNeel deeded three acres of land at the present location of Mt. Tabor church to build a cemetery and church.  Logs were hewn from the surrounding timber, pine was brought by an ox-drawn wagon from Warrensburg, and a church was built.  One hundred in attendance was not unusual.

In 1941, that church was destroyed by a windstorm.  While the church was rebuilt, Long Branch Baptist Church (about 3 miles away) offered their sanctuary to the congregation.  Donations to rebuild the church came from 500 people, ranging in size from 45 cents to $100.

An integral part of the church is its women’s organization.  It was first organized in 1907 at the Mt. Tabor Aid Society and has evolved into the current Mt. Tabor United Methodist Women with over 40 members.

Mt. Tabor has enjoyed a continuous, vibrant congregation.  And we expect to keep growing in the future.  In 2007, construction began on a 60′ X 70′ addition to the church, completed in 2010 debt-free.  In 2023, the basement was remodeled to support the growth of our youth.

As of July 1, 2023, we welcome our new pastor, Darryl Rider. Darryl and his family are long-time members of the Odessa community! He and his wife, Hilary, have three children: Brenna (15), Mason (15), and Camden (11). Darryl has held previous Ministry Appointments with Hardin United Methodist Church and Wellington United Methodist Church. He has held multiple administrative duties at Odessa First United Methodist Church, including Council Chair, Trustees, PPR, and Lay Leader.