ChurchHistory

On January 13, 1924, The Reverend George H. Fielding, Pastor of Wesley Grove Charge, met with several area families to organize a Methodist church in Ferndale. At first, worship services were held on Sunday evenings in various homes. In 1925 a new school was built and worship and Sunday School were held in the school basement. Following a tent service in 1925 the church membership was organized and the Bishop appointed a pastor to Ferndale. Three years later a building committee was formed and a building fund began. Land for the church was donated by the Cromwell family.

Ferndale Methodist Church was consecrated June 9, 1929. The congregation assembled at Ferndale elementary and processed to the new church. The membership continued to increase and on January 14, 1934 celebrated its tenth anniversary. The church mortgage was burned on May 25, 1941, and a building fund for a parsonage and education building was established. During the month of October 1949, several special Sundays highlighted the 25th Anniversary celebration. Homecoming, Rally Day and an Organ Recital united the fellowship in joy and gratitude to God for the blessings bestowed on the congregation thus far.

Ground was broken for the parsonage in May 1953. Three years later, on May 20th, the mortgage was burned. Fund raising continued for the Education building. Ground was broken February 15, 1959 following a sermon entitled, "Doing the Impossible." The new building was consecrated that October, and dedicated, debt-free, on December 6, 1964. The religious education of our children has always been a priority and many dedicated pastors and lay persons contributed to the Christian Education program over the years.

Great pride has been taken in the upkeep of the buildings. New pews, communion rail and choir loft were installed, the beautiful stained glass windows were added, and the church exterior was enhanced by brick veneer. In the final decade of this century a new church roof was installed, major renovations were made to the church's lower level, the sanctuary was painted, interior and exterior lighting was improved, and a memorial prayer garden was planted between the buildings. All of this was accomplished by generous contributions and helping hands.

January 2005 will mark our 80th year of ministry and mission to the glory of God. We dedicate this web page with heartfelt gratitude to that small but determined group who met to found our church. We give thanks for all who followed and carried the vision forward through the years!!