Our Building and Grounds' Architecture

Architecture and Grounds
Our beautiful Romanesque, Richardsonian-style building was completed in 1895, using state-of-the-art steel beam construction, allowing for some of the largest unsupported interior arches of that time. The sanctuary, which seats about 800 persons, is situated below a huge, lantern ceiling and Spanish tile roof and ring of Tiffany glass angel windows high above. The windows allow the light of Christ, coming from the spirit of love within, to shine into the neighborhood and world around us. We find this to be an apt symbol of our congregation, as we are a church with a heart for mission that shows Christ’s love to others, both near and far.

Floor Plan
Finding one's way around our building can sometimes be daunting for new and even long-standing members of the congregation. Click here to see a pop-up window with our floor plan.

First Flowers
You may have seen our extraordinarily beautiful flowerbeds at the corner of Centre and South Aiken Avenues. These plantings are co-sponsored by several agencies, including the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, and attract attention because of their spectacular display of color and design. Some people come from miles away to see this corner, representative of the vital ministry blooming here in this place. During the spring and summer, we gratefully accept the help of anyone who would like to be part of the volunteer team that tends our flowerbeds.

Ministry Space
Our building hosts a large variety of ministries, allowing for the space to be used most days and evenings for God’s work. We invite you to participate in the community activities that take place in this wonderful space, in addition to worship and fellowship activities.

  • Scouting Program: First United Methodist Church has been the meeting site of Cub and Boy Scout troops for many years. We celebrate Scout Sunday in February of every year with special recognition of the boys and their leaders.
  • Pittsburgh Toy Lending Library: Some people know FUMC as the church with the toy library in the basement. Pittsburgh Toy Lending Library has had a home here for many years, and serves the community by offering a place for adults to come with young children for play and resources for playing at home.

Many church outreach activities also utilize the resources of our wonderful building.