Leander United Methodist Church has been a beacon of faith and community for over 160 years, with deep roots in the story of Leander and a vibrant vision for the future.
Our journey began in the 1860s in the town of Bagdad, a mile west of our present site. Bagdad served as a halfway station between Fort Croghan in Burnet and Austin, with Bagdad Road first a Native American trail, later a cattle-driving route, and eventually a military road. The church was first organized as the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and services were held in a log schoolhouse near the old well by Bagdad Cemetery.
As the community grew, so did the church. In 1877, the trustees purchased over 38 acres, and by 1879, the first church building was completed, dedicated by Dr. F. A. Mood, President of Southwestern University. The church's move to Leander in 1882 mirrored the community’s own shift when the Austin and Northwestern Railroad bypassed Bagdad. With merchants and residents relocating, the church followed, establishing itself as a cornerstone of the new town.
Leander UMC has celebrated milestones like its 150th anniversary in 2010 and recently invested in updates such as sanctuary renovations and a commercial kitchen to better serve the community.
But our history is not just a story of the past—it’s the foundation for our future. Today, Leander UMC is a thriving home for faith and fellowship, hosting beloved community traditions like the annual pumpkin patch, chili cookoffs, and Easter egg hunts. Our church is also a place for sacred moments, from weddings to Christmas gatherings, and a hub for outreach through luncheons, mission work, and more.
We are proud to be a church that honors its legacy while embracing God’s call to serve in new and meaningful ways.
Join Us!
We invite you to experience the legacy and spirit of Leander UMC for yourself. Whether you're looking for a place to worship, connect with others, or be part of community celebrations, Leander UMC welcomes you. Let’s continue this journey of faith together!
