History

As with many United Methodist churches, JUMC began as a Methodist Society in the 1840s. By 1867, the society had become large enough for the bishop to declare them a new church. They purchased a schoolhouse at West and Leedom to use as their first church building. In 1879, a second building was built on the same plot.

In 1902, the current building was built at the corner of Walnut and Summit, in the residential part of town. The cornerstone was laid on January 1, 1902, and week-long dedication services were held October 26 to November 2, 1902. The core of our building is over 100 years old! Throughout the Twentieth Century, JUMC grew, and the church building expanded to meet the needs. Major renovations were done in the 1950s. An Education Building was added in the early 1960s.

Today, the entire building is used seven days a week. It is known throughout the community for being an open and inviting place for people to come for spiritual strengthening, meetings, fellowship, and fun!