Jarrell, Texas

New start: Jarrell is a rapidly growing town located 44 miles north of Austin in northern Williamson County. The county has seen its population surge from 426,000 in 2010 to 671,000 in 2022, with continued growth expected. For the past three years, Pastor Don Patterson has been working with a core group of 11, which began holding weekly worship in October 2024. The group has identified 90 prospects, many of whom they connected with by volunteering in the Jarrell Bible Community Food Pantry. The plan is to rent space for eight years before securing land and constructing a permanent church home.

Fast facts:

• The greater Austin metro area is projected to be the fastest-growing metro area in the entire United States over the next five years.
• The Jarrell School District has seen a 96 percent increase in enrollment since 2018–19 and is projected to double in size over the next five years.
• The core group has been actively participating in local events such as Octoberfest and food drives as well as connecting with community leaders to establish a strong presence in Jarrell.
• Fourteen Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary students traveled to the greater Austin area in 2023 to assist the core group, mission counselor, and district mission board as they explored the potential of planting a new church in the area. Read more at wels.net/from-the-very-beginning.

Prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, we are moved by your love, and we want the world to know you too. It’s a profound privilege to be part of the effort to change eternity for people using the simple gospel about your gift for us. You gave it all every second of your earthly life. Now you bless our efforts to create churches where people will find your grace for many years to come. You have recently granted financial support to put a pastor in Jarrell, Texas, to nurture the little flock there and to make inroads to many new families. Thank you for the privilege of serving you in Jarrell, and please help the core group make the most of every opportunity so many will see as their Lord and Savior when you return. Amen.

Contact:

Rev. Don Patterson
[email protected]
512-784-5429