“Small church big impact” That’s what they say about Vale Methodist Church. Founded in 1894 Vale Methodist Church has a rich history. Let’s step inside and explore this special place.
Vale Methodist Protestant Church first gathered at the Vale School. In November 1894 Thomas and John Clarke donated the property. Soon construction began in the spring of 1895. Church members donated materials and labor. Less than two years later in 1896 the church was dedicated. The original building still stands showcasing the fine workmanship. Lumber came from Stuart’s Mill a donation by the community.
Until the 1950s Vale remained a one-room church. Two doors led into the sanctuary. Two wood stoves warmed the church during winter. Water was carried in from nearby homes. Sunday school classes spread throughout the sanctuary.
That changed in August 1956. The church dedicated a new wing. It included school rooms a kitchen and a lavatory. The cost was 6200 dollars.
In February 1990 the church felt growing pains again. Church members decided to expand. A groundbreaking ceremony occurred on September 13 1992. The result was a beautiful fellowship hall. It also added a kitchen offices and classrooms. These additions were dedicated on May 16 1993.
Vale Church became Vale United Methodist Church. This happened when Methodist branches united in 1939. The church continues to grow. It gathers for worship and fellowship.
Vale UMC is small but very active. It makes an impact locally and globally. They are laid back non-judgmental and friendly. The church is also involved with the community service-oriented thankful and passionate. All are welcome.
The church supports numerous missions. They fight hunger near and far. Vale Church packaged its 500000th meal on January 21 2018. For six years Vale hosted an annual event. Volunteers packaged meals for Rise Against Hunger. They packaged 50000 to 75000 meals per event. Vale Church purchases meal ingredients. They use proceeds from the annual Christmas tree sale.
Vale Church has multiple local missions. They feed those in need. Neighbors Feeding Neighbors provides weekend meals. These go to underprivileged elementary students. Vale’s food pantry feeds needy families in Anacostia D.C. They provide Thanksgiving meals. Vale provides hot meals to homeless people. They work via FACETs along Route 50. The Vale Youth Group prepares meals. They deliver them to the homeless in Franklin Park D.C. Vale members provide monthly meals to Second Story. This is a teenage crisis shelter in Fairfax County.
Vale Church provides financial support and volunteers. They support Hypothermia Prevention Shelters. They also support The Lamb Center. This is a homeless shelter. They work with Just Neighbors. This offers immigration legal service to low-income immigrants and refugees. Vale supports the Shepherd Center. This provides services for senior citizens. Vale helps The Closet Thrift Store in Herndon. They support the White Doves Christmas Program. They sponsor 32 kids in Southeast D.C. providing school supplies and gifts. They offer ESOL tutoring. Vale organizes a summer mission trip to Guatemala.
Vale Methodist Church exemplifies community. It embodies faith and service. Its small size belies its large impact. The church welcomes all to join its mission.