Bouligny Chapel is where it all began for Napoleon Avenue Methodist Church. This is our stop. Let’s explore its story.
The organization of the Napoleon Avenue Methodist Church happened in May 1861. It started from the Bouligny Chapel. This chapel was in Jefferson City.
Before the Napoleon Avenue Methodist Church existed a mission was conducted from 1850 to 1860. Rev Benjamin Wayne began preaching there regularly. His work led to the church’s formation.
The church first occupied a handsome brick building on Napoleon Avenue in 1873. A few years ago this property was sold. The Napoleon Avenue Methodist Church then occupied its present stately edifice. It stands at the corner of St Charles and Napoleon avenues.
Many other Methodist churches were founded in New Orleans. The First Methodist Church has a long history. Strenuous efforts were made to establish it. This happened between 1805 and 1813. Rev William Williams was appointed to the work.
In 1825 a small congregation of twenty-five Methodists was formed. They met for worship in a warehouse on Poydras Street. Services were later conducted in a building on Gravier Street. A permanent building was erected at Poydras and Carondelet streets.
The Moreau Street Church was established in 1840. The Felicity Street Church was founded in 1850. The Louisiana Avenue Church dates from 1854.
The Rayne Memorial Methodist Church was established in 1877. It was initially named the St Charles Avenue Methodist Church. The name was changed to honor a benefactor.
The St Charles Avenue Methodist Church merged with the congregation of Napoleon Avenue Methodist Church. This detail showcases change over time. Churches evolve. They sometimes join forces.
Other churches have interesting details. A church building at Range and Chippewa cost 8250 dollars in 1846. In the same year the Baptist church building on St Charles Street cost 4000 dollars. The Catholic cathedral cost 50000 dollars in 1789 to 1794.
Christ Church is the mother-church of Protestantism in New Orleans. When the Presbyterians felt strong enough they left the congregation. Mr Hull contributed 300 dollars to help build the First Presbyterian Church. In Christ Church the French Protestants worshipped too.
The Civil War had an impact. Only twenty-six Episcopalian church buildings remained intact. Services were regularly conducted in only twenty-two.
What began in Bouligny Chapel is now a cornerstone. The Napoleon Avenue Methodist Church stands tall. It enriches the community. It carries on a legacy of faith and service.