There are many ways to invest in your hometown, but it helps to start with a good plan. Building on the success of the vibrant community of The Woodlands, developer Howard Hughes Holdings Inc. has embarked on another extraordinary development. Inspired by the vision of The Woodlands' founder, George Mitchell, The Woodlands Hills embraces the essence of a genuine hometown where residents and businesses thrive in a seamless blend.
The Woodlands Hills, located next to Lake Conroe in Willis, is distinguished by its commitment to nature. It dedicates 25% of its land to permanent green space. Now in its sixth year, the development is celebrated for its nature-inspired amenities, encouraging residents to connect with the outdoors. The official ribbon-cutting on July 19, 2018, marked the highly anticipated launch of this hidden gem, just 13 miles north of The Woodlands.
The Woodlands Hills is thoughtfully designed to integrate nature into the fabric of the community. However, a true community is defined by more than just its scenic surroundings — it flourishes through its residents' compassion, support, and service to others. It is about instilling gratitude in our youth, inspiring them to give back, and cultivating a spirit of kindness and hospitality. Here, we highlight a key investment in The Woodlands Hills that may encourage residents to embrace generosity and a heart for service.
The Woodlands Hills Community Church
Recognizing the importance of faith in fostering community, planners of The Woodlands Hills designated a site for a house of worship at the heart of the development. This eight-acre property was purchased by century-old First Methodist Conroe (FMC) to establish The Woodlands Hills Community Church (TWHCC). Once the community fully develops, the church will be centrally located, allowing it to serve as both a spiritual and communal hub. Reverend Susan Kent considers it a blessing and an honor for the church to be positioned in such a vital role, meeting not only the spiritual needs of residents but also providing a place of connection and support.
As a second campus of First Methodist Conroe, The Woodlands Hills Community Church will be developed in three phases, with groundbreaking expected in mid-2025. Each phase will function as a fully operational church, adapting to the growing needs of the community. Phase one will feature a 20,000-square-foot facility, including a multipurpose worship space, children's classrooms for a parents' day out program, a café, and an indoor playground — which is sure to become a favorite gathering spot! Additional multipurpose rooms will serve for meetings, classes, and administrative functions, fostering a welcoming community center atmosphere.
Currently meeting at W. Lloyd Meador Elementary School in Willis, the church has established a spiritual growth pathway known as L.I.F.E., an acronym representing four key membership vows that reflect the life and mission of Jesus:
- Living in Community – Encouraging meaningful relationships across generations
- Investing in Others – Teaching, mentoring, and uplifting fellow members
- Focusing Outward – Serving beyond the church to make a positive impact
- Encountering God – Strengthening faith through worship and spiritual practice
L.I.F.E. groups are designed to foster intergenerational connections, something Reverend Kent believes is often missing in modern society. Through these groups, members learn from one another, invest in each other's growth, and build strong, supportive relationships.
The Woodlands Hills Community Church is more than a place of worship — it is an anchor for community development, dedicated to serving its neighbors. Through meaningful partnerships with local organizations, the church actively contributes to strengthening the fabric of The Woodlands Hills, ensuring it remains a thriving, connected, and purpose-driven community.
In-house ministries at TWHCC include:
· Caring Ministry: TWHCC's Caring Ministry is dedicated to supporting those navigating life's challenges. As followers of Christ, FMC encourages its members to show love, offer support, and provide comfort and care to those in need.
· First FAM Ministry: First FAM is a ministry seeking to serve local children and families on their journey of foster care and adoption.
· Support Ministry: Understanding the strength of the community during challenging times, TWHCC created grief and cancer support groups. By sharing their struggles, individuals find reassurance that they are not alone and develop a deeper awareness of God's presence.
· Service Ministry: Sometimes, the smallest gestures make the biggest impact. Whether providing essential medical equipment or a warm, home-cooked meal, TWHCC congregation members selflessly dedicate their time to offering simple comforts that help lighten life's burdens and express compassion.
The Woodlands Hills Community Church currently meets at the W. Lloyd Meador Elementary School in Willis. You can learn more about TWHCC at FMConroe.org/TWHCC. Be sure to check out the following Holy Week events at TWHCC:
April 12 (Saturday) - Easter Extravaganza at 9:30 am at First Methodist Conroe, 4308 W. Davis St., Conroe, TX 77304
April 18 - Good Friday service at 6:30 pm at Meador Elementary, 10020 FM 830, Willis, TX 77318
April 20 - Easter service at 9:30 am at Meador Elementary, 10020 FM 830, Willis, TX 77318
"An essential element of The Woodlands Hills is preserving the wooded character of the landscape while developing the community in harmony with nature,” said Steve Sams, Senior Vice President, Master Planned Communities and Land Sales for Howard Hughes.
Reverend Susan Kent: “We are building this church with more than Sunday in mind; we’ll be able to offer seven-day discipleship.”