Drawn to this unassuming spot. Here stands a plaque marking a truly significant moment in Wellington’s history. This is the First Christian Methodist Service Plaque.
Before Wellington was truly established, two Wesleyan missionaries arrived. J.H. Bumby and John Hobbs held the very first Christian service. It was at Te Aro Pa in 1839. This humble plaque commemorates that pivotal event.
The Methodist Church quickly took root in Wellington. A simple church was built that same year. Later, two more permanent structures rose on the corner of Manners and Cuba Streets. Disaster struck. The earthquake of 1848 destroyed one. The earthquake of 1855 ruined the other. Undeterred, they tried again. A large timber building stood for a time. But the Te Aro fire of 1879 consumed it.
After the fire, the church made a major decision. They moved to a new site on Taranaki Street. There, they could buy a whole town acre. A timber building was more economical. They purchased the property from J. Johnstone for a considerable sum. It was four thousand one hundred and sixty pounds.
The Manners Street property was sold. But some worried about the financial strain. Still, plans by Thomas Turnbull were approved. James Wilson won the contract. The foundation stone was laid in November 1879. The church opened in March 1880. Land and building were valued at ten thousand and sixty pounds.
Initially, the Taranaki Street site held only the church. This gave them room to grow. They could build other facilities. Renting out parts of the property offered income. Within two years, more plans came from Thomas Turnbull. This time for a Sunday School. It opened in April 1882 costing one thousand two hundred and eighty pounds.
The church has seen changes over the years. The interior was renovated in 1930. Architect William Fielding oversaw the work. In 1962, Ernst Plischke made major alterations. These included removing a staircase, moving the organ and altering the chancel. Part of Turnbull’s design was lost. The work cost twelve thousand eight hundred and fifty-seven pounds. An arson attack in 1982 badly damaged the building. Gordon Moller designed the extensive restoration.
Attendance declined as people moved to the suburbs. In 1949, the church became an inner-city mission. It was formally named so in 1969. With the growth of Wellington’s Samoan community, the church thrived. It remains an active Methodist center. The church symbolizes Methodism in Wellington. Its roots stretch back to 1839.
In 1995, land was added along York Street. A new building met the church’s needs. It houses offices, counselling rooms, a hall and a kitchen. Space was rented to a bookshop, cafe and real estate agency. The Wesley complex also houses various organizations. These include the Methodist Youth Empowerment Board and Christian World Service.
As you reflect upon this plaque for the First Christian Methodist Service, consider the enduring legacy. It is a testament to faith and community. This place stands as a reminder of the past. It is a vibrant center for the present. The story of the First Christian Methodist Service continues.