In the year 1905, twelve members of Hill Street Methodist Church, now First United Methodist Church, under the leadership of the pastor, Dr. U. G. Foote, established a Sunday School in a small dwelling at 506 East High Street and was named the Third Methodist Church. From these humble beginnings, the little Methodist Sunday School grew and in September 1906, under the supervision of W. S. Vreeland, pastor of Epworth Church, a building lot was secured at the corner of Park and High Streets and a small brick church building was erected. The building was used by the congregation for several years.
By 1914 the congregation had grown and a new church building was started at the corner of High and Clay Streets. Construction of the new church was slowed by the advent of American involvement in World War 1, and was not dedicated until 1920. This structure still stands today and an addition of Education Classrooms was finished in 1960 and dedicated to Dr. William Fryman. In 1917, the name of the church was changed to Park Methodist, reflecting its proximity to Woodland Park. Since 1905, Park UMC has been served by 31 Senior Pastors, with the final one being Dr. Todd Benner who served from 2020 to 2022. As of July 2022, Park United Methodist Church merged with Centenary a United Methodist Church Congregation and Park UMC became known as Centenary Park Campus.
For 117 years, Park Church was ably led by men and women who willingly shared their talents to further God’s work. They came from disparate geographical, educational and economic backgrounds. They saw many changes both within the church, the community and our country. Park UMC is proud of their mission work and their dedication to serving others. The bonds of friendship and service have been far-reaching and long-lasting.
Now, as a campus of Centenary, we expect a new journey filled with exciting challenges and opportunities—a journey of faith that will build on the solid foundation of all those who for so many years have given of their time and resources. With all that love, devotion and Christian fellowship lighting our way, we face the future with great optimism and hope.
By 1914 the congregation had grown and a new church building was started at the corner of High and Clay Streets. Construction of the new church was slowed by the advent of American involvement in World War 1, and was not dedicated until 1920. This structure still stands today and an addition of Education Classrooms was finished in 1960 and dedicated to Dr. William Fryman. In 1917, the name of the church was changed to Park Methodist, reflecting its proximity to Woodland Park. Since 1905, Park UMC has been served by 31 Senior Pastors, with the final one being Dr. Todd Benner who served from 2020 to 2022. As of July 2022, Park United Methodist Church merged with Centenary a United Methodist Church Congregation and Park UMC became known as Centenary Park Campus.
For 117 years, Park Church was ably led by men and women who willingly shared their talents to further God’s work. They came from disparate geographical, educational and economic backgrounds. They saw many changes both within the church, the community and our country. Park UMC is proud of their mission work and their dedication to serving others. The bonds of friendship and service have been far-reaching and long-lasting.
Now, as a campus of Centenary, we expect a new journey filled with exciting challenges and opportunities—a journey of faith that will build on the solid foundation of all those who for so many years have given of their time and resources. With all that love, devotion and Christian fellowship lighting our way, we face the future with great optimism and hope.