Killeen Texas Stake

03/19/2026

✨ Caminar con Cristo — una experiencia de Pascua en Killeen, Texas ✨

Este fin de semana de Pascua, invitamos a nuestros amigos, vecinos y miembros de la comunidad a Caminar con Cristo y experimentar escenas de la vida y el ministerio de Jesucristo.

Los invitados serán guiados a través de seis salas bellamente preparadas que representan momentos sagrados—desde el nacimiento de Cristo hasta Su resurrección—cada una presentada mediante representaciones bíblicas de testigos personales de Sus milagros y ministerio. Es una manera significativa de reflexionar sobre la vida y el mensaje del Salvador durante esta temporada de Pascua.

📆 Viernes y sábado, 3–4 de abril de 2026
⏰ En cualquier momento entre las 6:00–9:00 PM
⛪️ La Iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Últimos Días
📍1410 S. 2nd St., Killeen, TX

La presentación guiada dura aproximadamente 50 minutos y se ofrecerá periódicamente en inglés y español durante toda la noche. Al finalizar el recorrido se ofrecerán refrescos ligeros.

Este evento es gratuito y abierto a toda la comunidad, y los invitamos cordialmente a traer a su familia, amigos y vecinos de todas las edades para unirse a nosotros al recordar y celebrar a Jesucristo durante esta Pascua 💛

03/09/2026

This Easter weekend, we invite our friends, neighbors, and community members to Walk With Christ and experience scenes from the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.

Guests will be guided through six beautifully prepared rooms signifying sacred moments—from Christ’s birth to His resurrection—each shared through Biblical portrayals of personal witnesses to His miracles & ministry. It’s a meaningful way to reflect on the Savior’s life and message this Easter season.

📆 Friday & Saturday, April 3–4, 2026
⏰ Anytime between 6:00–9:00 PM
⛪️ The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
📍1410 S. 2nd St., Killeen, TX

The guided presentation takes about 50 minutes and will be offered periodically in English & Spanish throughout the evening. Light refreshments will be served at the end of the tour.

This event is free and open to the entire community, and we warmly invite you to bring family, friends, and neighbors of all ages to join us in remembering and celebrating Jesus Christ this Easter 💛

03/09/2026

✨ Walk With Christ — Easter Experience ✨

This Easter weekend, we invite our friends, neighbors, and community members to Walk With Christ and experience scenes from the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.

Guests will be guided through six beautifully prepared rooms signifying sacred moments—from His birth to His resurrection—each shared through Biblical portrayals of personal witnesses to His miracles & ministry. It’s a meaningful way to reflect on the Savior’s life and message this Easter season.

📅 Friday & Saturday, April 3–4, 2026
⏰ Anytime between 6:00–9:00 PM
⛪️ The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
📍1410 S. 2nd St., Killeen, TX

The guided presentation takes about 50 minutes and will be offered periodically in Spanish throughout the evening. Light refreshments will be served at the end of the tour.

This event is free and open to the entire community, and we warmly invite you to bring family, friends, and neighbors of all ages to join us in remembering and celebrating Jesus Christ this Easter 💛



https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVrMtSNEQ7W/?igsh=aTdsOGtpMmR1MTQz

02/07/2026

Local Churches Unite to Pack More Than 10,000 Meals in Lampasas
Lampasas, Texas — January 31, 2026

By: Lisa R. Zuniga, Killeen Stake Social Media Specialist

Members of the Lampasas Ministerial Alliance and community volunteers gathered last Saturday afternoon at New Covenant Church for a Rise Against Hunger service event, packing more than 10,000 meals in just a few hours for families in need around the world.

Approximately 70 volunteers representing five different churches participated in the effort, including members of First Baptist Church and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Killeen Texas Stake). Working side by side, participants measured, packed, and sealed meals that were shipped first to a Dallas warehouse and then distributed overseas. Organizers said the group will be notified by email where the meals are ultimately sent.

By the end of the event, volunteers had completed more than 60 boxes which were loaded onto a pallet for transport. A celebratory gong was rung every time another 1,000 meals were completed, marking steady progress and keeping spirits high throughout the afternoon.

In total, more than 10,000 meals were packed in under two hours, including cleanup.

The event was facilitated by Amy Bresee, a Rise Against Hunger event facilitator who is based in the Arlington Stake. Rise Against Hunger is an international organization focused on addressing global hunger through nutrition, education, and economic empowerment.

According to the organization’s mission statement, “You can give hope to families and children in need across the globe. Every donation helps create lasting change and supports sustainable hunger relief for the people we serve in remote communities. It Starts With a Meal® — and leads to brighter futures for families and communities worldwide.”

Pastor Chris of New Covenant Church expressed gratitude for the strong turnout and the spirit of cooperation among the churches. “We had a great turnout and packed all 10,000-plus meals in less than two hours, including cleanup! It was such a blessing to see the Body of Christ working together. We look forward to doing more outreach like this together.”

Organizers said the event stands as a powerful example of what can happen when congregations unite in service, turning a few hours of volunteer effort into thousands of meals—and hope—for families around the world.

Lori Fergie, Killeen Stake JustServe Specialist, contributed to this story.

01/15/2026

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

It is with heartfelt sorrow that we extend our deepest condolences to the family of Bill Shine, a beloved member of our community, whose life has touched so many.

Bill Shine’s life was one of remarkable service and devotion. As a longtime businessman, a veteran who served with courage in the Vietnam War, and a steadfast participant in community and faith-based endeavors, his legacy reflects a life lived with integrity, compassion, and commitment to others. His contributions to the Killeen community have left a lasting impact—one that will be remembered with gratitude and respect.

We express our love and sympathy to the Shine family during this time of loss. We pray that the peace of the Lord, which surpasses all understanding, may comfort you in your mourning and sustain you in the days ahead. May cherished memories of his life and service bring you moments of peace, and may you feel the tender comfort of the Holy Spirit as you mourn and remember him.

With love and sympathy,

The Killeen Texas Stake Presidency
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

01/12/2026

Honoring Service Through Service: Killeen Stake Volunteers Join Wreaths for Vets Retrieval

By: Lisa Zuniga, Killeen Stake Social Media Specialist

KILLEEN, TEXAS—Members and missionaries from the Killeen Texas Stake participated in an early Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service by volunteering at the Wreaths for Vets wreath-retrieval event held at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery on Saturday.

Each year, Wreaths for Vets organizes this effort following the holiday season to respectfully collect wreaths placed on the headstones of veterans. This year, it is estimated that between 16,000 and 17,000 wreaths were laid and retrieved, with the number expected to grow next year.

For many volunteers, the experience was deeply personal and reverent. Sister Linda Phelps, senior military relations missionary for the Killeen Texas Stake, shared that she and her husband first visited the cemetery shortly after the wreaths had been placed. They were “humbled by the beautiful scene of white headstones contrasted by the green wreaths with red bows.” She added that the day of wreath removal was just as moving:

“It was beautiful to see so many show up today and come together for the same purpose—to serve in a small way those military members whose names were on each headstone and who have served us. A community coming together like today for a common cause is representative of what is desired for our nation.”

Sis. Sara Millet, Central Texas JustServe Director, reflected on the meaningful, individual nature of the service.

“Unpinning each wreath and detaching the ribbon took a little time, and I was grateful for the opportunity to scan each headstone as my fingers worked. I read where each veteran had served and messages that indicated that they were a beloved father, mother, daughter, son, or friend. It was a good reminder that freedom isn’t free, and I felt thankful for the many sacrifices that individuals and families make to serve in the military.”

She shared that the experience also reminded her of her father, a veteran, and expressed her desire to return each year.

The organization issues a call for volunteers annually, and hundreds from across the community respond, joining together in a spirit of gratitude and service to honor those who served our nation. Members of the Killeen Texas Stake were grateful to be among them.

Stake JustServe Specialist Lori Fergie helped coordinate participation for the stake, strengthening opportunities for service and community connection.

12/19/2025

Volunteers and Visitors Find Peace and Purpose at Waco Giving Machine

By Lisa Zuniga
Stake Social Media Specialist, Killeen Texas Stake

WACO, Texas—Volunteers and visitors alike are finding meaningful moments of peace, connection, and Christlike service at the Light the World Giving Machine in Downtown Waco this Christmas season.

For Rachel Felkner, Volunteer Coordinator and Stake Relief Society First Counselor in the Killeen Texas Stake, attending the ribbon-cutting event proved to be a personal blessing.

“It was a busy day and I felt like I had other important things to do,” Felkner shared. “After debating all morning, I finally decided to go, and Jershika’s light—her beautiful voice and her witness of Jesus Christ through music—was exactly what I needed. It brought peace and perspective back into my day. Her joy for the Savior was contagious.”

Many volunteers expressed gratitude for discovering the Giving Machine and participating in a unique opportunity to serve. Kristen Wagstaff, a volunteer from the Harker Heights Ward, described the experience as both uplifting and inspiring.

“The Giving Machine was amazing,” Wagstaff said. “I didn’t even know it existed before this year. It’s such a wonderful opportunity to give specific items to people in need. I loved talking with other church members and passersby and seeing the goodness that comes out during the Christmas season. I will absolutely volunteer again next year.”

Debra Summerford, also a volunteer from the Harker Heights Ward, echoed that sentiment, noting the impact of representing the Church in the community.

“It was awesome to be a representative of the Church at the Giving Machine,” Summerford said. “It’s a great way to donate to causes that truly help people, and I loved interacting with those who stopped by. I will definitely do this again next year.”

The Light the World Giving Machine is open daily through December 30 and is located in Downtown Waco at Spice Village, at the corner of 2nd Street and Franklin Avenue.

Volunteers are still needed. Those interested in participating are encouraged to contact their ward Relief Society president for additional information and volunteer opportunities.

12/15/2025

Light the World Giving Machine Opens in Downtown Waco
By Lisa Zuniga
Stake Social Media Specialist, Killeen Texas Stake

WACO, Texas—The Light the World Giving Machine officially opened in Downtown Waco last Wednesday morning, December 10, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Spice Village, launching a season of Christ-centered giving and community service.

Members of the Killeen Texas Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints joined community members and nonprofit partners to celebrate the arrival of the Giving Machine, which provides a simple and meaningful way for individuals and families to serve those in need during the Christmas season.

“It was a privilege to gather with community and non-profit leaders for the Waco Giving Machine ribbon cutting,” said President Tyler Martin, Stake President of the Killeen Texas Stake. “We are excited for members of our stake and the community to come together and serve by donating items from the Giving Machine to organizations and individuals in need. What an amazing way to Light the World and bless others during this season of giving.”

The opening celebration also included special guests and local leaders who share a common commitment to uplifting others. Bro. Mick Hawton, Killeen Stake Communications Director, described the event as both uplifting and inspiring.

“The ribbon-cutting day for the Light the World Giving Machine in Waco was excellent,” Hawton said. “The opportunity to get to know Jershika Maple from Season 21 of The Voice [and a Killeen native] was a blessing. She is a wonderful person who loves the Lord and sharing her gifts. We hope everyone can make it out to experience the Giving Machine and celebrate Christ through this simple act of service.”

Strong support from across Central Texas was evident, with organizations such as Wreaths for Vets among the first to participate.

“The ribbon-cutting for the Giving Machines was an awesome experience,” said Bro. Darren Coleman, Assistant Communications Director of the Killeen Stake. “It was great to see the turnout from Killeen. Wreaths for Vets, represented by Jean Shine and Cyd West, were among the very first to donate following the ceremony. We appreciate their support and the support of so many others in this opportunity to bless lives.”

President Martin expressed gratitude for all who make the effort possible, adding appreciation for those who serve behind the scenes. He thanked “all who devote time, resources, and energy to making burdens lighter and providing hope,” offering well wishes to the community during the Christmas season.

Photos from the ribbon-cutting event were captured by Bro. Darren Coleman.

The Light the World Giving Machine will be open daily through December 30 and is located in Downtown Waco at Spice Village, at the corner of 2nd Street and Franklin Avenue. Community members are invited to visit, give generously, and join in lighting the world—one act of service at a time.

12/12/2025

Latter-day Saint Leaders Strengthen Ties With Fort Hood Chaplains Through Service and Support

By Lisa Zuniga
Stake Communications Specialist, Killeen Texas Stake

FORT HOOD, TEXAS—Leaders from the Killeen Texas Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints visited Fort Hood this week to present a donation to the Chapel Tithes and Offerings Fund (CTOF), a program that helps Army chaplains provide spiritual and resiliency support to soldiers and families.

Stake President Tyler Martin emphasized the deep connection between the church community and the military: “Fort Hood is important to who we are. The military is such a big part of our community, and we want to support the mission [carried] out here. We know how much young soldiers need spiritual strength, and we want to offer whatever services are appropriate to help.”

He expressed gratitude for the stake’s senior military relations missionaries who help maintain relationships, offer service, and provide vital contact with Latter-day Saint soldiers stationed on the installation.

Fort Hood chaplains also voiced appreciation for the continued partnership. Garrison Chaplain Albano noted that the donation will strengthen ongoing resiliency efforts, saying it “will go a long way in helping us take care of soldiers and their families.”

Senior missionaries Elder Stephen and Sister Myra Creviston shared how they volunteer weekly at New Arrivals Orientation, Community Connections dinner nights, and the monthly food distribution supporting 400–500 families, among other programs and ongoing events. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to support what goes on here,” Sister Creviston said. “We love serving with these families.”

Incoming senior military relations missionaries, Elder Kelly and Sister Linda Phelps, expressed their enthusiasm as well: “We have a love and respect for the military. We’re happy to be serving here at Fort Hood and look forward to working with the Chaplain’s Office.”

Stake High Counselor Chaplain David Clement summarized the purpose of the visit simply: “This is one of our ways of giving back and building bridges with the military community—through volunteer service and through resources that support families.”

12/09/2025

We invite you to join us in creating a more meaningful Christmas season as we honor the birth of Jesus Christ by following His example of love and kindness together. You can experience more of His light in your life through Light the World, a global movement to love and serve as the Savior did.

Please invite your friends, neighbors, and associates to spread hope through our Giving Machine initiative. Resources to help you do so are available here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Rwkn2LNXF52ZUulGWTpCRxSvakMEst9Z?usp=sharing

More ideas about how to celebrate Jesus Christ's birth with us this Christmas are available here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/welcome/christmas

Additional resources, including a Family Home Evening lesson plan, are available here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1xWZ9jCIFP9V7WFz-8j7WH-rDTqOc0e5h?usp=sharing

We hope you will experience and share greater love, kindness, hope, and joy this Christmas season!

11/11/2025

Members of the Killeen Stake,

We extend a heartfelt invitation for you to come and participate in our Stake Conference taking place November 22-23, 2025. At the direction of President Jeffrey R. Holland, Elder David P. Homer, General Authority Seventy, will preside at the conference.

All meetings will be in-person at the Stake Center in Killeen. Those who are unable to attend due to health or other reasonable reasons are encouraged to reach out to your Bishop or Branch President for guidance.

On Sunday, there will be overflow parking two blocks from the church at Clifton Park Elementary. We encourage you to please be mindful of our neighbors and respectful to the community if you are parking on the street.

The meetings are as follows:

▪️Leadership Session: Saturday, 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
(Those invited are Ward and Stake Council members)

▪️Adult Session: Saturday, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
(If you have no childcare, please come to the meeting anyway and bring your children. Do your best to help your children be reverent. This is a special meeting, and you will be blessed by attending)

▪️General Session: Sunday, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
(Please bring yourself, your family, and your friends)

We hope that you will come and listen to the inspired messages, prayers, and music and allow the Holy Ghost to testify of the truth that Jesus Christ lives, that He is the Savior of the world, and that as we come unto Him we have increased peace and hope. It has been our prayer that you will find an added measure of strength and peace in your lives.

During the conference, we promise Heavenly Father can and will answer questions that you may have as you prayerfully ask and prepare. Please invite your family and friends to come and participate.

​The purpose of these meetings are to help us all draw closer to our Savior, Jesus Christ. We look forward to your preparation and attendance as we expect to have an uplifting and edifying experience. We love you and testify of the reality of our Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ.



Sincerely,



The Killeen Stake Presidency

President Tyler L. Martin

President Jordan W. Felkner

President Ryan T. Adams

11/07/2025