Pastor Ray Gilman became the Senior Pastor of First Methodist Church of Azle in August 2023,  He has recently accepted an appointment in North East, Maryland.  The SPR Council in conjunction with the MidTexas Annual Conference has begun the search for a new pastor.   

The following is from Pastor Ray upon announcing his move.

"It is with a heart full of both deep emotion and profound gratitude that I write to announce my departure from First Methodist Church of Azle. My last Sunday in the pulpit was June 28, 2026.

Serving this congregation has been a great privilege. Together, we have shared in joyous celebrations, navigated challenging seasons, and witnessed God’s faithfulness in powerful ways. I will cherish the memories we have built and the relationships we have formed. I will share that making this decision was not easy. Truly, I have nothing but love and tenderness in my heart toward all the wonderful folks I have served with and worshiped beside for years.

While it is difficult to say goodbye, I am confident that God’s plans for First Methodist Church of Azle are incredibly bright. As you enter this season of transition, I encourage you to support your church leaders, remain united in love, and welcome your next pastor with open hearts and open arms. The best days of this church are still ahead.

Though I will no longer be your pastor, I will continue to pray for this community and cheer you on from afar. Thank you for allowing me to serve you and for your unwavering support.  Thank you for loving, challenging, encouraging, and nurturing us. I pray that God would continue to pour out his favor on you and that many would come to a saving faith in Christ because of your faithfulness.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

With deep appreciation,

Pastor Ray Gilman"

Grant grew up and was raised in the Springtown/Azle area. He has strong family ties to this part of town. Grant grew up in a musical family that was highly active in Church ministry and began playing trumpet and piano before turning 10 years old. Grant graduated from Springtown High School. He was active in the music program. After graduating high school, Grant attended Howard Payne University in Brownwood TX where he pursued a degree in Music. This is where his passion for Choral and Music worship fostered further. Through studies at Howard Payne Grant had the opportunity to serve multiple churches in San Saba and Brownwood as a Music Minister Intern. After graduating from Howard Payne, Grant moved back into the metroplex and began his life in Fort Worth. It was here he began his life as a music minister at Ridglea United Methodist Church. Through his position at Ridglea Grant would meet his wife, Alyssum Power. Alyssum and Grant married in June of 2020. Alyssum also serves and works in ministry currently as a our Education and Family Ministry Director. Grant and Alyssum have 3 dogs whom they love very much. Grant is so thankful to serve as the Music Director at First Azle Methodist Church. Grant is passionate about providing music that allows congregates and leadership alike to connect further with God. In his free time Grant composes and produces music, spends time with family and friends, and spends time in nature. Grant is very thankful for the opportunity to use his gifts for ministry in the Azle community.

Grant can be reached at gnewman@fmcazle.org or by leaving him a message at 817-444-3323.

Alyssum Power will return to First Methodist Church of Azle on July 19, 2026.  

Bryson Ingle was born and raised in this church.  He grew up in Azle and his family attends First Methodist.   He is currently in school pursuing a career in Optometry.

Bryson's goal is to bring excitement and energy to the youth program.  From mission trips to mystery trips, from farm visits to progressive dinners, he and the Family Ministries council are working on fun activities for our students.  It is not all fun and games.  He also wants to grow and develop the faith of our young people, and this knows that this takes the whole church.  Bryson warns he will be calling on all to help in this area, starting with prayer.  Please pray for our youth program.  At First Methodist of Azle, we have great kids, involved parents, a supportive church, and a strong leadership team.

Pat Noe came to First Methodist Azle in October 2016 for three weeks while the Financial Secretary was out for surgery; she is still here! Pat enjoys organizing and accomplishing the administrative tasks of the Mission and Ministry of church, allowing others to focus their talents on the ministry aspects. 

Pat resides in Weatherford with her husband Richard and the youngest two daughters of their  twelve children. She and Richard enjoy the outdoors together and time spent with family, especially their many grandchildren.

She can be reached at pnoe@fmcazle.org or 817-444-3323 (leave a message). 

Stacy Johnson joined the staff of First Methodist Church of Azle in July of 2025, but she has been a member of the church since 2003. She likes to joke that working at the church is her "retirement career".  Stacy retired from public education after 29 years with most of those in administration. Prior to becoming a staff member, she served in several leadership roles at the church including Administrative Board Chairperson, Lay Leader, SPR Chairperson and Treasurer.    

Stacy is married to Eric and they have one adult daughter Katharine (who was baptized and confirmed in this church).  Stacy and Eric enjoy attending music festivals, camping with family and traveling.  

She can be reached at church@fmcazle.org or 817-444-3323 (leave a message).

Richard Noe is the Building and Facilities Manager or better known as the "Building Guy."