Metropolitan United Methodist Church

Whispers of resilience echo within the hallowed halls of the Metropolitan United Methodist Church. This grand structure, standing proudly on Woodward Avenue, has witnessed Detroit’s triumphs and tribulations. It has served as a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring power of faith. Let’s delve into the captivating story of the Metropolitan United Methodist Church. In 1901, two Methodist congregations, Woodward Avenue Methodist Episcopal and Oakland Avenue Church, united to form the North Woodward Avenue Methodist Church. Under the leadership of Dr. Charles Bronson Allen, they built a church that tragically burned down on Christmas Eve 1916. Undeterred, the congregation resolved to rebuild, grander than before. Sebastian S. Kresge, a prominent member and founder of the Kresge retail empire, generously donated land at Woodward and Chandler. He also provided significant financial support. Fellow congregant William E. N. Hunter designed the magnificent structure we see today. World War I delayed construction, but the cornerstone was finally laid in 1922. The first services were held in the completed sanctuary in January 1926. The Metropolitan United Methodist Church quickly became a cornerstone of the community. By the mid-1930s, it boasted the largest congregation of any Methodist church worldwide, peaking at 7,300 members in 1943. This architectural marvel showcases an English Gothic style, constructed with distinctive ochre granite from Massachusetts. The traditional cruciform design is enhanced by low side wings and a gabled roof. The sanctuary occupies the western half, while the eastern half houses an auditorium, offices, and classrooms. A unique feature is the partially stone-filled chancel window, designed to display a large tapestry inside. Inside, the church is adorned with captivating artwork. Artist George Boget painted murals throughout, including three on the second floor depicting the history of Protestantism and Methodism. The murals’ winding tree motif symbolizes the interconnectedness of the congregation, extending to smaller imagery in the corridors and larger murals in Kresge Hall. In 1970, the church received a magnificent gift: the Merton S. Rice Memorial Organ, named for a former pastor. Donated by Stanley and Dorothy Kresge, this Moller organ boasts over 7,000 pipes, making it one of the largest in Michigan. The Metropolitan United Methodist Church isn’t merely a building; it’s a living testament to faith, resilience, and community. It has weathered storms, both literal and figurative, and continues to serve as a beacon of hope on Woodward Avenue. As you stand before this magnificent edifice, remember the stories whispered within its walls and the generations who have found solace and inspiration within its embrace.