Rev. Tom Palmer
(972) 285-5456, Ext. 1
Welcome!
I am Tom Palmer, Senior Pastor at First United Methodist Church in Mesquite, Texas. After serving as a part-time Associate Pastor for over a decade, I accepted the position as Senior Pastor. My appointment to full-time ministry followed retirement from a 30-year career as an economic developer for several cities, most recently right down the street from the church.
You may think it a bit unusual going from economic development to church work, but it really is not! My motto in the secular world was, “I make the dirt fly,” and now my motto in the church world is, “I help souls soar!”
God is good! At First Church, we want to experience God’s grace, forgiveness, and peace together. Our mission is: "Love God, Love Our Neighbor, and Serve the Community".
Please let me know how we can connect and fulfill our mission together as a family of faith.
My Favorite Things
- Helping people get to know the God I know and see everyday when I look in the face of others, for we are all created in God’s image
- I like baseball, reading, Broadway musicals, and singing. Most of all I love traveling and hanging out with my wife, Valerie (she’s the tall blonde you’ll meet when you visit!).
- Being a granddad is another one of my favorite things. I had no idea how cool it is to be so loved by my grandchildren!
My Reason for Being Here
God has placed on my heart a "love for God, a love for my neighbor, and a love for serving others". We have a great opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others and to make the world around us a little better with God’s help and direction.
My Biggest Struggle
Details and patience. I am a “big picture” guy and know that the Holy Spirit has great things to accomplish here at First Church. I want to act and act now; however, I need to take a step back and listen to the Holy Spirit’s still, quiet voice. I am surrounded by faithful people. Together, God is using everyone and each of their distinct gifts to further His Kingdom on Earth. I need to remember, “Focus and chill, Pastor Tom, God’s got this!”