The Oasis Leadership comprises dedicated Lay Leaders from the congregation, a small yet effective Staff, and a Board of Directors.
Rev. Mary is the Senior Pastor of Oasis Global United Methodist Church (UMC) in the North Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church. It is her calling to develop a United Methodist congregation of African immigrants in the Dallas area, worshiping in the African style of worship, culture, traditions, and love. The supportive and tight-knit community that Rev. Mary shares draws many to the church .
Mary was ordained by the United Methodist Church in June of 2014 and received a full-time appointment as Executive Director/Pastor of the Oasis Global Mission extension ministry. Prior to this, she served as the Associate Pastor of Grace United Methodist Church Dallas and gained experience as an Intern Pastor at Lovers Lane United Methodist Church in Dallas.
A 2011 graduate of Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University with a Master of Divinity degree, Mary also holds a Pastoral Care Certificate, specializing in Compassionate Service.
Rev. Mary also serves as a U.S. Army Reserve Chaplain, providing support to our soldiers.
Mary and her two older sons hold dual citizenship in Kenya and the US; her third son was born in Dallas while Mary was attending seminary. Her husband, Kenneth Jackson, is also actively involved in the Oasis ministry.
Beatrice Thaitumu, the Lay Leader at Oasis Global United Methodist Mission Church, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role. A native of Kenya, Beatrice, along with her husband, relocated to the United States in 2007, where they were soon blessed with two sons. With a lifelong commitment to Christian leadership, Beatrice has been actively engaged in various roles since the age of 15. Holding certificates from both church and professional institutions, she is widely recognized for her leadership, servanthood, integrity, commitment, love, patience, and inclusiveness, both in the US and in Kenya.
In 2018, Beatrice graduated from the University of Texas in Arlington with a bachelor's of science degree in nursing. As a Registered Nurse, she continues to serve the community, meeting its healthcare needs and holding the position of head nurse at her workplace. Beyond her professional achievements, Beatrice exemplifies Christian discipleship, serving as a role model within the congregation. She represents the laity and the church council at various levels, collaborating closely with the pastor to advance the mission and vision of the congregation. Compassionate and unwavering in faith, Beatrice inspires, guides, motivates, and leads fellow church members to achieve the collective goals and fulfill the mission of the church.
Oasis Board of Directors
As a burgeoning congregation affiliated with the United Methodist Church in the North Texas Conference, we have established a dedicated Board of Directors. Collaborating closely with Rev. Mary, the Board is instrumental in realizing the vision of Oasis—transforming into a vibrant community church that embraces African traditions in worship and extends a warm welcome to all. Our mission is not only to cater to the diverse spiritual needs of the community but also to inspire and support African immigrants in the broader Dallas area.
Dr. Mary Nickson-Chair
Edwin Njiru-Treasurer
Shirley Dunn-Secretary
CHURCH DEVELOPMENT
Cynthia Rives
Pastor Archie Browne
Attorney Irene Jackson
BOARD DEVELOPMENT
FUND RAISING AND FINANCE
Dr Ouida Lee
Edwin Njiru
Stephen Tillery
MARKETING
Bonnie Murray
Ex-Official members:
Rev. Mary Miriti-Senior Pastor of Oasis Global UMM
Beatrice Thaitumu, Oasis Congregational Lay Leader
Rev. Alex Williams, Senior Pastor of Ridgewood Park UMC
