Morton UPC

The R.F. Watkins family moved to Morton in the Spring of 1965. They began attending services at an independent church where on September 15, 1965, the assembly elected Brother Watkins as Pastor. On their first service as Pastor, there were 7 in attendance. After being at this congregation for five years, and upon the direction of District Superintendent J.E. Anderson, they moved out of this building to begin the Morton First United Pentecostal Church.

A prominent family in town, the Eichelbergers, had a large house that they made available for the newly formed congregation to meet in until they could secure another building. Over 90 people attended that first Sunday in the Eichelberger house. The town took up money and bought the property for the new church!

The Lord provided many miracles during the building process, and over the years, there have been hundreds filled with the Holy Ghost. After 28 years of pastoring, Elder Watkins retired in 1992. At that time, the regular attendance was more than 150, and their son Ricky became Pastor. He pastored the church for almost 22 years, and the church saw great things accomplished.

The assembly purchased adjoining land and built a new facility during the pastorate of Brother Ricky Watkins. This provided room for the annual presentation of an Easter drama, “Emmanuel,” written and directed by Pastor Watkins. This annual presentation introduced thousands of people to the Pentecostal message. Also, Morton Christian Academy operated in the old sanctuary for 17 years.

Upon Pastor Watkins’ resignation, Presbyter Barron Price was elected for a three-month term to serve as interim Pastor during the search for a new Pastor. Jonathan Soden was elected on April 9, 2014, and served until July 2, 2017. Under his leadership, the interior of the new sanctuary was remodeled, along with other building enhancements. In July of 2017, Barron Price was elected Pastor.

Under his leadership, the church continued to improve the facilities: upgrading the parking lot and security lights, enhancing the media presentation, and completing a significant facelift on the front of the new sanctuary. The facility enhancements had a positive impact throughout the community and on the revival spirit that was flowing on the inside as the church is gearing for even greater Apostolic Revival in Morton!
Morton UPC continues to thrive today under the leadership of Pastor Nathan and Stephanie Morales.