To make Disciples for Jesus for the transform of the world
Center Grove United Methodist Church is presently a member of the North Alabama Conference, Northeast District. In 1842, during the era of slavery a group of pioneering worshipers assembled in order to form a congregation to reach and attract people of color, currently known as Center Grove United Methodist Church. The congregation composed of ten families was founded in a humble makeshift building in Mullins Flat on the Old Jink Jordan Plantation. In 1888, the Old LaGrange Hall, a former slave trading post, would become the second location for Center Grove. The two-story house was far much more than just a place of worship but served as a school and overall community pillar for African-Americans within the Madison County area. During the spring of 1974, a groundbreaking ceremony took place for a new church and parsonage on our present location. In 1975, with Rev. Wylheme as minister, church family and friends held their first service in the new sanctuary. We trace our legacy to these early pioneers of Center Grove that endured with God’s sovereign grace and mercy in the midst of challenge and obstacle.
Our Pastor
Rev. R. Seth Shamery
Bold Faith. Clear Vision. Everyday Transformation.
Seth Shamery is the Senior Pastor of Center Grove United Methodist Church in Huntsville, Alabama. A former General Electric engineer turned full-time minister, Pastor Shamery left behind corporate success in 2009 after a life-changing call to help people find purpose through Christ. Today, he leads with a unique blend of spiritual insight, real-world experience, and a no-nonsense approach to discipleship.
A devoted adherent and teacher of Wesleyan theology, Pastor Shamery is passionate about grace, holiness, and practical faith. He believes spiritual transformation is both personal and social—and that following Jesus should shape not just your beliefs, but your daily life.
With a style that’s direct, thoughtful, and always grounded in the Word, Pastor Shamery challenges people to live out Christian principles in everyday life. His leadership centers on one core truth: faith isn’t just for Sunday morning—it’s for how we live, lead, love, and grow all week long.
Under his leadership, Center Grove has become a church where retirees are honored, younger families are engaged, and the entire community is called to be “irresistible lights” of Jesus Christ. Whether he’s in the pulpit, on the golf course, or writing devotionals that speak to the soul, Pastor Shamery is committed to helping people connect deeply—with God, with each other, and with their calling.
He holds a Master of Divinity from Liberty University and a proud husband, father, grandfather, and mentor to many.
Our Leadership Team
Tina Moore, Operations Manager
Danny Newton, Praise & Worship Leader
Andrew Downer, Pianist | Minister of Music
LaRue Larry, Percussionist
Brenda Spillman, Facility Maintenance.
Why United Methodist
DID YOU KNOW?
In 1937, Center Grove Circuit had 222 members; 5O Sunday School members; $145.OO, district- annual conference and benevolences; 2, number of church buildings; $1,000.00 estimated value of property and assets; $5,OOO.OO estimated value of land; 1 parsonage; 1, local preacher; 1 subscriber to The Advocate.