History of OFUMC
1964 – The Davidson County Board of Missions of The United Methodist Church decides that there is a need for another Methodist Church in Davidson County. A 12.5 acre tract is purchased on which to build the church.
1968 – Rev. J. P. Greene is appointed to organize the church and becomes the first pastor. The first church service is held on July 21, 1968 at 8 pm in the Midway School gym. Twelve people present themselves for membership. On Sunday, August 25th of that year, at a Charge Conference, officers are elected and the name “Oak Forest” is chosen.
1969 – On February 23rd, the Church observes Charter Sunday. There are 92 charter members present. On May 4th, there is a groundbreaking for the first building. The building, known today as the Fellowship Hall, is completed that summer. First services are held on Sunday, November 23rd.
1970 – Cub Scout and Boy Scout Programs are organized. A kindergarten is organized. United Methodist Men’s program is launched.
1972 – On February 20th, the first Homecoming Service is held. Rev. Joe Davis becomes pastor on June 4th. Church membership continues to grow.
1974 – Rev. Paul Davenport becomes pastor.
1978 – Rev. Larry Clifton becomes pastor.
1981 – Rev. Carl Dunker becomes pastor.
1982 – Church produces the outdoor drama “A Hill Called Calvary,” written by Rev. Carl Dunker. The performance of the drama continues until 1996.
1986 – The Sanctuary is completed and dedicated.
1988 – Rev. Jim Singleton becomes pastor.
1989 – Rev. David Wyant becomes pastor.
1994 – Rev. James T. Webb becomes pastor.
1996 – The Education Building is completed.
1999 – The new parsonage is completed. The After School Program opens on August 18th with seven children and Ann Starbuck as director.
2001 – Rev. Bill Berry becomes pastor. Church holds first Car and Truck Show. The show is held the following two years.
2002 – Church gets a new permanent sign at the church entrance.
2003 – Congregation performs the drama “A Hill Called Calvary.” The debt to the parsonage is retired making the church debt free. The After School program obtains “Notice of Compliance” GS-110-106. Rev. Doug Pryor becomes pastor. Church becomes the North Davidson distribution point for “home delivered meals” later to become known as Meals on Wheels.
2004 – Church purchases 5.5 acres of adjoining property to enlarge the church campus.
2005 – Ground breaking is held in December for the Family Life Center.
2006 – Family Life Center is built and a walking trail behind the church is created.
2007 – Rev. Jacqueline Tookey becomes pastor.
2010 – Rev. Darren Alexander becomes pastor.
2017 – Rev. Julie Wilburn Peeler becomes pastor.
2021 – A garage is built to house the church’s van and bus.
2021 – Rev. Rick Carter becomes pastor.
2022 – A Columbarium is added.
