First United Methodist Church of Orlando

Our History

Original First ChurchFirst United Methodist Church of Orlando has been a significant presence in the founding and growth of the City of Orlando and is considered a flagship church in the United Methodist Florida Conference.

First Church beginnings are traced to the Circuit Riders who ministered in the 1840s throughout this area. In 1874, Methodists joined with two other denominations in the old red-brick country courthouse in the center of town to hold regular church services.

In 1882, Methodist built their own small church on the west corner of Magnolia and Jackson Streets. When a hurricane tore down the first steeple, a much smaller one was built. In 1888, the building was expanded to 50x90 feet to accommodate the members.

With a growing congregation, the yellow brick sanctuary was constructed in 1913 for a total cost of $50,000. Other buildings were necessary and in 1949 the Asbury Hall was built, and in 1956 the Ledbetter Building was finished. (Which now houses the children's ministry and the Wesley Child Development Center.)

In 1962, the current sanctuary was built with its beautiful architectural design. It is listed on the "tours of Orlando" due to its uniqueness.

The three-story Wesley Building was built in 1971 and houses our offices, youth activities, some Sunday school classes, and our fellowship hall.

The buildings across South Street known as the FIS Building was purchased in 1986 and for many years was rented to Florida Information Services (FiServe). The building, now know as Ministry and Education Building (M&E), houses many ministries and Sunday school classes.

The Second ChurchFor more than a century, members of our congregation have established a tradition within the community for reaching out to others. The church is also well-known for its outstanding musical contributions offered to the community throughout its existence.

First Church has served as mother church for Broadway, Holden Heights (now Ebenezer), Pine Hills and College Park United Methodist Churches, plus contributing to other United Methodist Churches in the Orlando area.

Now in its third century, First United Methodist Church of Orlando offers an innovative program of ministries that nourish the contemporary needs of this modern downtown community, serving the very you to the young-at heart, and welcoming all who attend.

 

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.
                                 Psalm 136:1

page updated December 30, 2005
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