About

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church Ole Moon Retreat Center, located in Montgomery County about an hour north of downtown Houston, is a gem hidden away. Far from the hustle and bustle of city life, Ole Moon provides a get-away for reflection and renewal.

Ole Moon was originally purchased in 1936 as a hunting property by Robert Henderson. In 1960, Mr. Henderson died and his widow, Louise, allowed the church to begin using the property. In 1975, Mrs. Henderson deeded St. Paul’s 20 acres of the property that included the cabins, specifying that the site be used as a retreat center.

Over the years, thanks to the generosity of Mrs. Henderson, and the Henderson/Wessendorff Foundation, St. Paul’s acquired the remaining acreage, creating the tremendous space available to the church. The church has always been especially grateful to Robert and Louise’s daughter, the late Lois Wessendorff, for her continued support of the programs at St Paul’s. There have also been a number of Eagle Scout projects that have enhanced the property.

The influence of the Henderson and Wessendorff families can also be seen on our Main Street church campus. The statue of Jesus at the Labyrinth, the silver altar cross and a complete renovation of the chapel were part of the family’s giving to St. Paul’s.

Oh, and Ole Moon? He was Mr. Henderson’s beloved hunting dog and Ole Moon’s picture is still proudly displayed in the property’s main cabin.

Ole Moon is, indeed, a treasure for St. Paul’s. The good news? It can also be rented for use by groups or families. While it can seem primitive (there is no WiFi or television, but the cell service is excellent), after just a few minutes on the property, you can begin to feel yourself relax into the quiet surroundings.

The vision for Ole Moon has always been that it is a retreat not only for St. Paul’s UMC, but also for other churches, scout groups, community organizations, family events and even corporate retreats.

amenities

  • There are 3 sleeping cabins (two include toilets and showers), one main cabin, 24 beds available in total

  • Parking is an open field and can fit about 30 cars

  • Great cell phone reception

  • Near Magnolia and Montgomery, so there are stores and civilization nearby!

  • This is a retreat center that is available to anyone, including St. Paul's families and outside groups.

Contact

For more information on renting Ole Moon, please contact St. Paul’s at (713) 528-0527 or email marisa@stpaulshouston.org.