Perritte Methodist Church is a lively community of faith, situated physically on the west side of Nacogdoches—the “oldest town in Texas,” as our Convention & Visitors Bureau likes to say! Here’s how Claire Westmoreland Clifton, who was present when this congregation was organized, remembered the beginnings:
The church was organized in the fall of 1924 during a revival that was being held by the pastor of Nacogdoches First Methodist Church, Rev. J. Coy Williams, and the Presiding Elder (now known as the District Superintendent) of the Nacogdoches District, Rev. H. T. Perritte. The denomination title then was Methodist Episcopal Church South…
The revival that led to the organization of Perritte Memorial was held in the Union Tabernacle. It was a large painted wooden building that was located a block south of our present church building. It was a nondenominational church. My sisters and I attended Sunday school there on Sunday afternoons…the new church found a home and was named Perritte Memorial, in honor of Rev. Perritte, who had furnished the inspiration that led to the new church. Rev. Perritte died soon after the church was built, but his memory is alive and well.
…I see a great future for Perritte Memorial with the many young couples bringing their children to Sunday school and church. These young families are taking part in their children’s Christian education.
From the very beginning, this little assembly of faithful people put a high priority on helping neighbors and teaching Christian faith to children and youth.
In July 2022, Rev. Brad McKenzie, along with his wife Emily and their children Anna Claire and Jack, joined the Perritte Methodist family. Pastor Brad has over 25 years of ministry experience and is passionate about preaching and teaching the Word of God, helping people live fully for Christ, and serving both the church and the community. The McKenzie family lives by the motto: “Do for one what you wish you could do for all!” We invite you to come meet Pastor Brad and experience his heart for Christ and for people.
And now, nearly a century after its founding, Perritte Methodist Church continues its mission with the same focus on ministry, addressing timeless needs: serving others in our community by reaching across dividing barriers and building up new generations with faithfulness and joy. We hope you’ll be a part of Perritte’s future as a vibrant faith community, building God’s family, sharing God’s love, and living on God’s mission since 1925!