First Methodist Church Family:

This is an exciting summer for our church.  We are impacting the lives and eternities of

children, students, adults around Houston, and around the world in an exciting variety of ways. 

In addition to so many wonderful summer activities, I want you to know about a change

happening that will have a significant impact on Wesley Academy, one of our church’s vital

ministries.

As you may know, Wesley Academy is our church’s private, Christian school located on our

Westchase Campus.  Beginning at 6 months and going through the eighth grade, Wesley

Academy provides a safe, nurturing environment that pairs together rigorous academics with

a distinctly Christian worldview.  Wesley is a unique school that understands and meets the

needs of a multi-cultural student body.  This great school has been an important ministry of
our church since the founding of the Westchase Campus in 1993.  Now Wesley is preparing

to take a bold step toward the greater future God has for her. 

We are happy to announce Elaine Pendergrass as the Head of School for Wesley Academy.  Elaine has been part of the First Methodist family for two years.  She was hired as the Children’s Minister at Westchase, and in that role brought a joyful energy combined with a strong commitment to children learning the Bible.  She’s been a terrific leader of our children’s ministry and, while we will miss her in this role, we are convinced that God has wired her for this new challenge.  Elaine has a Master’s in School Administration, she has classroom teaching experience, has been Principal of a large church preschool, and for the past year has served as Co-Head of School here at Wesley.  Now she’s making the transition to sole Head of School. 

Elaine is such a perfect match for this position.  She will ensure the growth of the school through deepening the ties with all the church as well as the communities and businesses that would serve as the best opportunities for strategic relationships.  Our church is better with a strong Wesley Academy.  Please pray for Elaine as she assumes this full-time role.

Of course you can help fuel this ministry as well by being an advocate for Wesley Academy.  If you have children or grandchildren, friends or associates looking for the unique warm-hearted, academic environment that Wesley has, please contact Elaine (713-266-3341).  You can learn more about Wesley by going to www.wesleyacademy.net. 

Thanks for being part of a church that is changing the world, and impacting children’s lives!

Dr. Paul Clines
Executive Pastor
Westchase Campus
pclines@fmhouston.com