Did the Methodists of New Lenox ever imagine they’d have such a history? The United Methodist Church of New Lenox, standing here before us, represents nearly two centuries of faith and community. It’s a story that began long before this modern structure graced the landscape, stretching back to circuit riders and humble beginnings. In 1829, Reverend Jesse Walker, a Methodist circuit rider, began his ministry in the area, bringing his message to both Native Americans and the growing settler population. The knowledge tells of how the church was officially recognized as a Sesquicentennial Church in 2010. This recognition, bestowed by the Illinois State Historical Society, celebrates the church’s 150 years of continuous service. But dedicated research pushed the congregation’s origins even further back to 1835, marking a remarkable 175 years of service.
The first church building, a shared space between New Lenox and Frankfort Townships, was built in 1853 and known as Bethel Church. As the communities grew, so did the need for dedicated worship spaces. Bethel Church was dismantled, its materials repurposed to build the first Methodist Church in the Village of New Lenox in 1863. Located on Hickory Street, just east of Pine Street, this simple one-story “meeting style” building with a spire served the growing congregation. The United Methodist Church of New Lenox continued to evolve with the needs of its community. By 1899, a new, larger church was built at the corner of Church Street and Haven Avenue. This building was a testament to the congregation’s growth and prosperity, with its construction cost of over $11,000 paid off within just two years.
The story of the church is also intertwined with the history of the Cold Stream Campground. This 21-acre site, located on the western edge of town, was purchased by the Centenary Campground Association after the Civil War. It became a hub for summer camp meetings, drawing people from across the region to participate in religious services, hymn sings, and community fellowship. The land on which the current United Methodist Church of New Lenox stands is the same ground that once hosted these vibrant camp meetings. In 1976, ground was broken for a new church building on the old campground property. This modern structure, dedicated in 1977, reflects the church’s continued commitment to serving the community. It has undergone several expansions over the years, including the addition of the Glenn E. Ames Memorial Chapel and a larger sanctuary, providing more space for worship, education, and fellowship. Even within this modern setting, echoes of the past remain. The Boy Scout Cabin, built in the late 1920s by church member Arvid Swanson, still stands on the property. This simple cabin, a reminder of the campground’s vibrant past, has been recognized as a historic landmark. The United Methodist Church of New Lenox stands as more than just a building. It’s a living testament to the enduring power of faith, community, and the dedication of generations who have sought spiritual growth and connection within its walls.