Here stands John Wesley United Methodist Church a place with a story that intertwines faith community and a commitment to building a better world. John Wesley United Methodist Church started under Foundry Methodist Episcopal Church on December 24 1828.
Wesley Chapel was dedicated on May 3 1829. It was a modest brick structure. It stood at Fifth and F Streets NW. John Wesley United Methodist Church became a separate church in 1838. It grew into one of Washington’s great congregations.
In December 1856 John Wesley dedicated a new large building. The downtown area evolved. In 1921 property was purchased on Connecticut Avenue in Chevy Chase. The last services at the first location happened on February 12 1922. Church services started at the present location on May 21 1922 in a tent. When cool weather came the tent was left. A temporary wooden structure was built. It was affectionately called “The Shack.”
The building erected in 1924 was dedicated on October 25 1925. It is now known as Fellowship Hall. It was to be the educational wing. The sanctuary was to be built later. Seating was in folding chairs. Regular pews were installed with the delay in building. The cornerstone of the present Sanctuary wing was laid on April 14 1957. The new building was consecrated on December 15 1957.
John Wesley United Methodist Church served its community. It was a missionary church in its early years. It started missions Sunday Schools and churches in various parts of the city. These became strong independent organizations. Over the years stained glass windows were given for the 1957 addition as memorials. Two in the chancel honor John Wesley and his brother Charles Wesley. They were instrumental in the Methodist Movement. A new pipe organ was installed in 1979.
After three years of planning a capital funds campaign raised $450000. An Atrium addition was built. It was dedicated on April 13 1997. The Atrium’s main feature is an elevator. It gave John Wesley barrier-free access. The Atrium includes two bathrooms. It has an additional entrance for Fellowship Hall events.
In the spring of 2009 Metropolitan Memorial and John Wesley United Methodist Church became a cooperative parish. The congregations partnered. This increased their witness and service.
Today the Wesley Campus of National United Methodist Church is a joyful inclusive community. It is rooted in the teachings of Jesus. The congregation welcomes all persons. It respects the earth. It cares for justice and human well-being. It supports children. It defends the underprivileged. It is open to growth and learning.
The church believes faith calls people to practice love and reconciliation. It joins Christ’s Spirit in building a better world. Metropolitan Memorial and Wesley UMC have merged. They are now known as National United Methodist Church.
Also consider Jazz at Wesley. On the fourth Saturday of each month the Wesley Campus hosts an evening of jazz. Some of DC’s best jazz musicians play in the fellowship hall. As you leave John Wesley United Methodist Church remember its story. It is one of faith service and a welcoming spirit.