Over the years, First Methodist Waco (4901 Cobbs Dr.) has had a reputation for having pastors who are engaging, practical Biblical preachers. In May 2025 they welcomed their new Senior Pastor, Rev. Dr. Mike Voigts.

Mike and his wife Sheryl come to Waco from the Kentucky Bluegrass, where for the past nine years he has been a member of the faculty at Asbury Theological Seminary, teaching courses in Christian Spirituality and Theology. Mike has been in pastoral ministry in Texas and Kentucky since 1993, including three years as an Associate Pastor at First Methodist in Waco back in the 1990s. A graduate of Baylor, Mike also holds a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from Asbury Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. from London School of Theology in England. He’s the author of two books, including The Fourth Degree of Prayer.

As to why he left his faculty position, Mike says, “In the eyes of the world, it doesn’t make sense to leave a tenured faculty position, but I’ve always had a dual calling to higher education and to the local church. First Methodist has always been a special place for us, and when several members reached out to us about their need for a Senior Pastor, I couldn’t pass the opportunity to give back.”

While in Kentucky, Mike’s wife Sheryl served for many years as the Registrar at Asbury Seminary and Asbury University. She grew up in Kingwood, TX and is a graduate of Texas A&M University and Asbury Seminary. Mike and Sheryl have two grown children, both married and living in the Dallas Metroplex. They have two granddaughters.

In sharing his hope for the church, Mike says, “I want First Methodist to continue to be a place that encourages everyone to become a disciple of Jesus. Whether it’s in an office, at a sporting event, or at the grocery store, we’re called to represent Christ well everywhere we go.” He’d like to see the formation of home groups or other means that can keep people connected to each other, even away from the church building. “In many ways, we’re more connected today than ever before in history, yet we’re also the most distant from one another. I’m always trying to find ways to build Christian community because we need each other.”

Mike is a passionate fan of Baylor athletics, the Chicago Cubs, and of Liverpool in the English Premier League (“It’s a long story,” he said). In his spare time, he also enjoys photography and reading, particularly biographies.

On Sundays, First Methodist has a contemporary worship service at 9:30 and a traditional worship service at 11:00, both in the sanctuary. Sunday School classes meet at both hours. The church has vibrant children and youth ministries. They also have an active college ministry at their location adjacent to the Baylor campus, where students meet for worship on Tuesday evenings.

For more information, feel free to email Mike at mike@firstwaco.com or explore their website at www.firstwaco.com. You can also find live-streamed Sunday worship services on YouTube and Facebook.