“Friendship.” A powerful word isn’t it? Friendship Methodist Church embodies that very sentiment. This church stands as a testament to community and faith. It’s a story that began in a humble school.
Let’s step back to 1953. Imagine a small group of people gathering at Woodburn Elementary School. They were full of hope. They dreamed of a new church. The Alexandria Board of Missions and Church Extension supported them. Annandale Methodist Church sponsored their efforts. On October 18, 1953, their dream started to take shape. Ninety-seven people attended the first Sunday School session.
Just a few days later on October 22, Rev. J. Carroll Fink arrived. He would organize and serve as the first pastor. The first worship service took place on November 15, 1953. Only fifteen people were there but their spirit was strong.
January 24, 1954, marked Charter Sunday. Fifty-three people became members of Friendship Methodist Church. The charter membership closed on February 7 with 66 members. The members chose “Friendship” as the church name. It symbolized what they wanted to represent in the community.
The congregation broke ground on April 8, 1956. This was for their first building. It contained classrooms, offices, a kitchen, and an auditorium. The first service in the new building was held on October 28, 1956.
Time moved forward. By the late 1970s, the church needed more space. Members wanted a formal sanctuary. In 1986, thirty-three years after that first service, they began planning. The initial plan involved a separate building. It would connect to the existing structure with a breezeway. Ultimately, they decided to add a sanctuary to the front of the original building.
October 2, 1988, saw another groundbreaking. District Superintendent Robinson McAden preached. Bishop Stockton of the Virginia Conference led the groundbreaking ceremony. On October 29, 1989, the new sanctuary was consecrated. Rev. J. Carroll Fink, the first pastor, returned for the service. Pastor Jim Righter, the current minister at the time, also participated.
For seventy years, Friendship Methodist Church has been sharing the gospel. It has transformed countless lives. The church looks forward to continuing its mission. It supports its future ministry through the Friendship Future Fund. It has grown as disciples and served as friends. It loves all and serves all. It always follows One.
As you stand here today, consider the legacy of Friendship Methodist Church. It is a place built on faith, community, and a commitment to serving others.