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The Elkhorn Hills United Methodist Church, A Christian Community, affirms God’s love for all persons through Jesus Christ; celebrates that love through joyful worship and prayer; provides for the growth of that love through experiences of Christian fellowship and spiritual enrichment; witnesses to the presence of God’s grace in our demonstrated concern for others; shares the resources of this community of faith through Christian stewardship.
God has blessed Elkhorn Hills with a rapidly growing congregation. We are located in the heart of the fastest growing school district in Nebraska. The Elkhorn school system is growing at a rate of over 4% per year, and our church family has consistently exceeded the rate of growth of the community.
We hope that each morning's worship is both inspiring and challenging for you. Holy Communion is celebrated on the first Sunday of each month. All are welcome to participate, including children, regardless of denominational affiliation.
Through our ministry to both the membership and the community beyond, Elkhorn Hills has been a church that has grown both in size and in spirit. The membership has taken seriously the vows to support it through prayer, presence, gift and service.
Through our participation in the connectional system of the United Methodist Church, our ministry spreads around the world.
BUILDING A CHURCH
Interest for an Elkhorn-based United Methodist Church began early in 1984, with an
organizational meeting held in February and the first worship service convening on
Father's Day.
In 1984, Members of Elkhorn Hills United Methodist Church sat shoulder-to-shoulder on
folding chairs in a rented storefront off West Dodge Road. The one-room building looked
more like a warehouse than a place of worship. A piano was purchased in September of the
same year, and an official "charter service" held at 2:30 on October 21st. 86
members and 57 youth and children attended.
Early services, as well as many developmental activities were led by Rev Kenneth
McClain.
As Elkhorn Hills continued to grow, so did the need for a more accommodating space, and
on May 7, 1987, ground-breaking services were held on a wind swept knoll that was in less
than 9 months to become a church.
A CHURCH GROWS
The Rev. Bill Ritter assumed the pastoral duties after Elkhorn Hills' inaugural year. He had come from a congregation that had just celebrated its 100th year anniversary to a congregation that had no building, little tradition, but big dreams.
Under Rev. Ritter's leadership, the congregation recognized the need for expansion of the membership to sustain the church and achieve its dreams. Therefore an active outreach program to the surrounding community was started. As a result, Elkhorn Hills began to grow and realize some of its potential.
In 1987 a worship space, a fellowship hall, and a suite of offices was constructed at the present location. In 1990 an Education wing was constructed, with the actual physical labor provided by the members of the congregation! A Family Life Center, complete with a gymnasium and a well-equipped kitchen, was added in 1995. Under the Rev. Denny Silk's guidance, a much-needed Narthex and additional classroom space was built. As the Preschool and Children's ministry continues to grow, an enclosed playground was recently completed. And at some point in the future, a permanent sanctuary will be constructed. When it does the original dream of those founding members will become a reality.
Elkhorn Hills is dedicated to meeting the spiritual needs of all ages. It looks forward to an unlimited future as the Elkhorn community continues to grow and a God continues to bless.
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