Methodism has a rich history in Eddy County, New Mexico, with notable figures and leaders who have played a significant role in shaping the Methodist community in this region. From the early days of missionary work to the establishment of churches and institutions, Methodism has left a lasting impact on the people of Eddy County.
The Beginnings of Methodism in Eddy County
The first Methodist missionaries arrived in Eddy County in the late 1800s, bringing with them the teachings of John Wesley and a desire to spread the gospel to the people of this region. One of the earliest figures in Methodism in Eddy County was Reverend John W. Pogue, who arrived in 1883 and established the first Methodist church in Carlsbad. Reverend Pogue's dedication and hard work laid the foundation for Methodism in Eddy County.He traveled extensively throughout the region, preaching and establishing new churches. His efforts were instrumental in bringing together scattered Methodist communities and creating a sense of unity among them.
The Role of Women in Methodism
While men like Reverend Pogue were at the forefront of missionary work, women also played a crucial role in spreading Methodism in Eddy County. One such woman was Mrs. Mary Elizabeth "Mollie" Pogue, Reverend Pogue's wife.She was an active member of the church and worked tirelessly alongside her husband to establish new churches and support existing ones. Another notable figure was Mrs. Mary Elizabeth "Lizzie" Smith, who arrived in Carlsbad with her husband Reverend William Smith in 1890. She was an accomplished musician and used her talents to lead the choir at the Carlsbad Methodist Church. Mrs.
Smith also played a significant role in organizing and leading women's groups within the church, which provided support and fellowship for women in the community.
The Founding of New Mexico Military Institute
In 1891, Reverend William Smith and his wife Lizzie were instrumental in the founding of the New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI) in Roswell. The institute was initially established as a Methodist school for boys, and Reverend Smith served as its first president. NMMI has since grown into a prestigious military academy and continues to have strong ties to the Methodist Church. Another notable figure in the establishment of NMMI was Reverend John W. Chaffee, who served as the institute's chaplain from 1893 to 1895. He was a beloved figure among the cadets and played a crucial role in shaping the spiritual life of the institute.The Growth of Methodism in Eddy County
As Methodism continued to spread throughout Eddy County, new churches were established, and existing ones grew in size and influence.One such church was First United Methodist Church in Carlsbad, which was founded in 1900. It quickly became one of the largest and most active churches in the region, with a strong focus on community outreach and social justice. Another significant development in the growth of Methodism in Eddy County was the establishment of Trinity United Methodist Church in Artesia in 1903. This church played a vital role in bringing together Methodists from different backgrounds and ethnicities, creating a diverse and inclusive community.
Notable Leaders in Modern Methodism
In more recent years, several notable leaders have emerged within the Methodist community in Eddy County. One such leader is Reverend Dr. David Wilson, who served as the pastor of First United Methodist Church in Carlsbad from 1996 to 2018. During his tenure, the church experienced significant growth and became a hub for community service and outreach. Another influential figure is Reverend Dr.Scott Seymour, who has been the pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church in Artesia since 2007. Under his leadership, the church has continued to grow and has become known for its strong emphasis on social justice and community involvement.
