Time warp with me for a moment. We’re going back to 1905 when the foundation of the First United Methodist Church was laid.
The First United Methodist Church stands here as a testament to enduring faith. It reflects Salt Lake City’s architectural legacy. Frederick Albert Hale designed it. He was a renowned architect. This was his only church design in Utah.
Hale designed dozens of Salt Lake City buildings. He also designed churches outside the state. The First United Methodist Church has been a part of Salt Lake City’s cultural fabric for over a century. It earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995.
But there is much more to the First United Methodist Church than just the building itself. The church is a vibrant community in downtown Salt Lake City. The church is a spiritual hub. It embraces people from diverse backgrounds. These backgrounds include Pacific Island African Native American Asian Latin American and European heritage.
Its mission is turning closed doors into open tables where everyone belongs. The First United Methodist Church continues to address the needs of vulnerable populations. They work locally and globally. Visitors can experience enriching worship. This includes traditional hymns contemporary songs and organ music.
Speaking of music the First United Methodist Church houses the oldest pipe organ in Utah. It features the most original components in their original location. The original organ was dedicated in December 1906. George Kilgan & Sons made it. The organ featured pipes painted in shades of green. Intricate stenciling highlighted them.
Between 1915 and 1960, the organ underwent enlargements. The console moved closer to the congregation. Frank W. Asper was the First United Methodist Church organist and choir director from 1924 to 1939. He also served as an organist for the Mormon Tabernacle.
In 2009, the First United Methodist Church decided to restore the organ to its original style. They wanted its original parts and feel. Fundraising efforts included recitals grants and crowdfunding.
By 2014, the church had raised enough money. They hired Bigelow & Co. to restore the organ. They found vintage parts at the local Salt Lake Masonic Temple. They located and purchased a 1930 organ console from Old St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cincinnati. Tony Devroude recreated the original stenciling on the organ pipes.
Today the Wesleyan Heritage Organ at First United Methodist serves the local Methodist community. It is used for community events and organ recitals. The organ console was dedicated to the memory of Dr. Frank W. Asper.
The First United Methodist Church is more than bricks and mortar. It is a beacon of hope unity and service. It embodies compassion and community engagement. It stands as a testament to an enduring faith. The church welcomes all who seek solace community and a place to belong.