First Methodist Houston

A curious thing happened in 1907. First Methodist Houston purchased land at Main and Clay, its present downtown location. One trustee resigned, convinced the property was “too far out of town.” First Methodist Houston has been a cornerstone of Houston since its humble beginnings in the 1830s, even before Texas became a state. In 1839, Reverend Jesse Hord organized Houston’s first Methodist congregation in the Senate Chamber of the Republic’s Capitol Building. Imagine, in 1844, the congregation completed the first brick church in Texas. This was a testament to their growing faith and commitment to the community. The church’s journey wasn’t always easy. In 1864, a storm caused a wall to collapse. During a yellow fever epidemic in 1867, their pastor, Reverend William Rees, was among the 1,000 Houstonians who tragically perished. Yet, First Methodist Houston persevered. They rebuilt and continued to serve. In 1910, the current sanctuary at Main and Clay was completed. This sanctuary has witnessed countless services, weddings, and community gatherings. The church’s influence expanded beyond its walls. Members helped establish Methodist Hospital in 1919 and Clarewood House retirement community in 1963. The church also embraced technology, broadcasting its first live worship service on the radio in 1924 and on television in 1956. That televised service is now the longest-running television program in the nation. Today, First Methodist Houston continues to thrive, with two campuses. The Westchase Campus, established in the 1990s, serves the growing western part of the city. From its early days meeting in the Capitol Building to its present-day presence, First Methodist Houston has been a beacon of faith and service in the heart of Houston.