OUR LOCAL CHURCH:
The Western Oaks Church of the Nazarene (WOCON) was organized on October 3, 1965, beginning with 29 members and a Sunday School attendance of 50 on the first Sunday. The current worship center was dedicated in 1973.
Dr. Talmadge Johnson was the first pastor of WOCON, serving from 1965 – 1975. In 1975, Dr. Johnson was appointed to serve as District Superintendent of the Mississippi District. He later went on to serve as Superintendent of the Tennessee District, as head of the denomination’s Sunday School ministries, and as a General Superintendent of the denomination, the highest elective office in the Church of the Nazarene. The following have provided distinguished pastoral service to WOCON: Rev. Richard Reed (1975-1980), Rev. Robert Snodgrass (1980-1984), Rev. Steve Fletcher (1984-1987), Rev. Curtis Lewis (1987-1992), Rev. Ray Hance (1992-1995), Rev. Greg Rickey (1995-2003), Rev. David Gallimore (2003-2005), and Rev. Lee Ellingson (2006-2008).
WOCON is known for its lively worship atmosphere. The choir, band, and orchestra thrill the hearts of worshippers with a blend of music that reaches across generational lines. Our pastor's preaching is presented in a warm and engaging style that addresses contemporary needs. The church is alive with a dynamic group of active teens and exuberant children, both groups led by solid pastoral leaders. Current membership stands at over 570, with an average attendance of approximately 400 worshippers each weekend. Worship services are held on Friday evening (Hispanic), Sunday morning and evening, and Monday evening (Celebrate Recovery). Wednesday night includes a number of worship and training activities that are age-group appropriate.
OUR DENOMINATION:
The Western Oaks Church is a member of the Church of the Nazarene, which will celebrate 100 years of service in October 2008. Various local churches and regional church bodies came together in Pilot Point, Texas and formed the current denomination in October 1908. The denomination is a part of the Wesleyan-Arminian theological tradition, placing a strong emphasis on holy living, seeking to make a positive difference in the world.
The denomination operates in over 150 countries in six world regions. The Board of General Superintendents, currently comprised of six individuals, works with the District Superintendents and other leaders in overseeing the work of the Church in these world areas. The denomination’s World Ministry Center is located near Kansas City, MO.