Welcome To First United Methodist Church in the heart of downtown South Bend, Indiana
A Brief History
SOUTH BEND'S FIRST CHURCH
First United Methodist Church was the first congregation established in St. Joseph County. Organized in 1831 by the circuit rider, Rev. Nehemiah Griffith, it first met in Coquillard’s Tavern. It wasn’t long, however, until the young Methodist congregation built its own church building, a white framed structure, a block south of our present facility.
Over the years, First Church has outgrown several buildings. In 1914, our present sanctuary was dedicated. In 1926, the Chapel area was added. And then in 1959, the Education Building was constructed and consecrated.
First Church has had a notable history of service in South Bend. In 1887, some women of the church established a women’s shelter, which eventually became Memorial Hospital. The congregation was also instrumental in the formation of the South Bend Public Library. Over the years, First Church has been the congregation of many of South Bend’s notables, including Clem Studebaker, the auto manufacturer, two Congressmen, Federal Judges, and other governmental, business and educational leaders.
Most recently, First Church has distinguished itself with its special ministries in the heart of the city. More than 25 years ago, the Upper room, a residential program for recovering alcoholic and narcotic addicts was established. Twenty-six years ago, the Soup Kitchen was started. It is estimated that over one-half million meals have been served since the kitchen’s inception. First Church has a food pantry that serves anyone who is a resident of St. Joseph County and an active Scout Troop. Currently, we are in the process of adding a Parish Nurse to the staff for our congregation and the people who utilize our various ministries.
Although our history is important, we feel that God is calling us in the here and now to reach out to our community and make disciples of Jesus Christ. Our “Promised Land” for our children, our new forms of worship, our signature ministries, and most importantly our people, bode well for us as we prepare to enter into our 175th year in the heart of South Bend.
