Seated amongst the 300 pews of Saint Matthews United Methodist Church picture this. The year is 1958. A congregation is preparing for a momentous move. For 70 years Saint Matthews Methodist Episcopal Church stood proudly at 53rd and Chestnut Streets in Philadelphia. It was a place of worship for hundreds a cornerstone of the community. Now its time for change. The sale of the Philadelphia church building a decision made after membership declined significantly is about to fund a new beginning.
Saint Matthews United Methodist Church wasn’t just a building. It was a testament to the unwavering faith of its members. The original Philadelphia church had seen its share of highs and lows. It started with a small group of 22 faithful souls. Their belief and commitment blossomed. At its peak in 1940 the church boasted a remarkable 800 members. Col Joseph M Bennett a generous benefactor donated the original land and provided significant financial support.
The relocation to Valley Forge wasn’t easy. It required a significant financial investment. $150000 from the sale of the Philadelphia building and a $75000 loan from the Methodist Board of Missions provided the funds. The Philadelphia Conference Board of Missions and Church Extensions even gifted a 10 acre plot for the new church. The move symbolized a chapter closure and the hope of new growth and revitalization.
In Valley Forge Saint Matthews United Methodist Church was built on the former Rehobeth Springs Farm. The colonial style structure was a testament to the enduring legacy of the church. While its founding was in Philadelphia. The new space incorporated modern amenities. A new education wing was added in 1968. A parsonage was consecrated in 1970. The move brought the church to a rural setting but not before a series of temporary worship spaces. An old farmhouse and then the Valley Forge School served the church until the construction was completed.
The dedication of the new church on January 8 1961 was a significant event. Officiated by Dr Frederick Brown Harris Chaplain of the US Senate it marked a new era for Saint Matthews United Methodist Church. The move symbolized the church’s resilience its adaptability its commitment to faith. The Christmas Eve 1960 service the first one held in the Valley Forge building was a candlelit affair. This was a testament to the enduring spirit and dedication of the congregation. The story of Saint Matthews United Methodist Church is a story of faith adaptation and perseverance. Its history is a reminder that even in times of change the church remains a beacon of hope and community.