The History of UMC Newton's Historical Roots

There is been a longstanding Methodist influence within Newton, Massachusetts.  The first Methodist church in the town was aptly named the First Methodist Episcopal Church of Newton.  Since that time, there have been numerous Methodist churches and related organizations within the local area.  Below is a chronological listing of Methodist churches established in Newton.
 

1832   First Methodist Episcopal Church of Newton, Newton Upper Falls

1860   Newtonville Methodist Episcopal Church

1864   Newton Methodist Episcopal Church, Newton Corner

1867   Newton Lower Falls Methodist Episcopal Church

1867   Auburndale Methodist Episcopal Church (merged to form United Parish of Auburndale)

1872   Highlandville Methodist Episcopal Church renamed Cline Memorial Methodist Episcopal Church

1875   Newton Center Methodist Episcopal Church

1979   United Methodist Church of Newton (our church)

To learn of UMC of Newton's history, the history of each of the previously established churches must be reviewed.  In repeated efforts to both unify Methodism within America into a single denomination and adapt to changes within Newton's population, these churches underwent a series of mergers that culminated with the 1979 merger into the United Methodist Church of Newton.  The last of the churches to consolidate into our current church were Newtonville Methodist Church and Newton Center Methodist Episcopal Church. 

On July 1, 1979, the Newton Center and Newtonville churches merged, they chose the new church name, elected officers, trustees, committees, and a building committee.  It was soon decided to sell both old churches and to build a new smaller church building. An existing building which had been used by the Newton School Department for over 20 years was up for sale here at 430 Walnut Street.  The new church bought the property and renovated the existed building into their new church home.  The remodeling was completed in time for the congregation to begin worshiping in early 1981.

The character and traditions of the previous churches were not lost when the church moved into this new building.  The parlor on the first floor was named the Gifford Room to honor Pastor Hamilton Gifford of the Newtonville UMC.  The Good Shepherd stained glass window visible from Walnut Street came from the old Newtonville church, and the stained glass Narthex windows, featuring Methodism's founder John Wesley and American Bishop Francis Asbury, were moved here from the old Newton Center church.

The church did not completely consolidate and develop all areas of its ministry by the time worship began at the new church.  This is exemplified by the religious education program.  Despite religious education being an essential part of the church's identity, it was not formally conducted at UMC of Newton until 1993. UMC of Newton continues to grow in other new and exciting ways both to honor the preceding churches and to minister to the emerging needs.

 
This historical account was adapted from a presentation made by Ken Wiesner for the 2006 Confirmation Class.  Thank you Ken!