Doesn’t it strike you as remarkable how a community’s spirit can be embodied in a single building? That’s precisely what the Newburgh Methodist Church represents. Since 1834 this church has been a cornerstone of faith here in Newburgh.
The Newburgh Methodist Church started small. It was formally recognized and linked with other churches. Rev Marcus Swift was appointed as its pastor. The church was originally located on Newburgh Road. It sat just south of Ann Arbor Trail.
Interestingly Newburgh had another church of Congregational tradition. The feeling existed that the settlement could not support two churches. The Methodist and Congregational communities joined. They took the Methodist name and structure. They started utilizing the building of the Congregationalists.
In 1915 the Newburgh Methodist Church moved to attract more worshippers. It hoped a location at the crossroads would help. The church thrived even without a parsonage. Student preachers from Ann Arbor led the congregation. Money was eventually raised to build a parsonage.
During World War II the small congregation doubled. In 1941 the Fellowship Hall was built at its current site. Later four acres became available from Emma Arnold’s estate. A parsonage was erected followed by a sanctuary and educational wing. Services of Consecration were held in May 1962.
The Newburgh Methodist Church continued to grow. Another addition was consecrated to house the growing congregation. In 1979 a new Fellowship Hall and kitchen were added.
The original Newburgh Methodist Church building now stands at Greenmead. It’s at Eight Mile and Newburgh Road. Rededicated in August 1984 it serves as a non-denominational church today. It is available for weddings or special events. Tours are available.
Today the Newburgh Methodist Church is known for its mission and outreach programs. It actively participates in disaster relief efforts. Teams have been sent to Louisiana Puerto Rico Midland and Detroit. The church helps communities recover after natural disasters.
The Newburgh Methodist Church is a Reconciling Congregation. It welcomes and affirms all persons. This includes all ages races ethnicities cultures and gender identities. It also includes sexual orientations marital status economic condition and physical or mental ability. The church strives to reflect God’s unconditional love.
From its humble beginnings to its current role the Newburgh Methodist Church has remained steadfast. It serves Christ builds community and loves all. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith. It demonstrates the strength of community in the face of change.