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.
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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.
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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.