About

About Messiah United Methodist Church

The History of Messiah United Methodist

In March of 1952, the present 4 ½ acre location at 527 Ridge Pike was purchased for the local VFW. A mid-19th Century Victorian mansion stood at the peak of the hill and this became the original worship site of the "Methodist Church of Whitemarsh Township". Rev. Thomas G. Hoffman served as the first pastor in May of 1952.

We recognize December 7, 1952 as the birthday of our church - when the 33 charter members began plans for the building of an adequate church building. Groundbreaking for Wesley Hall (the present sanctuary) began November 14, 1954 and the hall was completed on June 26, 1955. The name of the church was then changed to "Messiah Methodist Church" in 1957.

Under the direction of the Rev. William Wassel, who arrived in 1959, the education wing was built. Throughout the next decade, under the leadership of the Rev. J. Dennis Williams, the church grew with 239 members!

During the term of the Rev. Kenneth Kolva (1968-1976), major renovations were made to Wesley Hall, and ground was broken for a new social hall. During the service of the Rev. Andrew Simonson (1976-1982), the fellowship hall was constructed. This addition was named Kolva Hall in memory Kenneth Kolva.

In July of 1992, the Rev. Jim Todd began the longest term of any pastor here at Messiah—11 years. Many major renovations and improvements were completed over that time - a new sign was installed, and a new organ was dedicated.

Our first female pastor, the Rev. Nancy Miller, came in 2003 and was followed by the Rev. Tom Ebersole in 2008. Shortly after Pastor Tom's arrival, we dedicated a new picnic pavilion for fellowship and outdoor worship. Pastor Tom created many opportunities for growth, change, and renewal of our community.

In past years, we have introduced Rev. Bill Lentz and Rev. David Eckert, and through their leadership, have welcomed many new members.

In July of 2023 we welcomed Rev. Robert L. Johnson. Pastor J is an energized preacher who relates the word of the Bible to real life. Pastor J and the entire Messiah congregation welcome anyone looking to make that life-to-liturgy connection!

What's Unique About Messiah UMC?

The congregation at Messiah United Methodist Church is known for being welcoming, full of life, and friendly to new visitors. We pride ourselves on being a multi-generational and multi-cultural church. We are mission-oriented and are always looking for ways to do God's work and spread His love. We also vary our worship styles week to week, so everyone will always find fulfillment in the Lord's house.

Our Current Goals

Our primary intention is to consistently do God's will in our everyday lives. This means contributing our donations to many community outreach programs and impoverished areas, as well as adventuring on many mission trips to help those in need.

We also aim to appeal to all people, regardless of race, age, economic status, or any other characteristic. That is why we vary our types of service each Sunday. We understand that worship comes in many forms, and so do God's people!

We are always looking to meet potential members who can help us in spreading God's word. Call us or visit us next Sunday!

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The History of the Greater United Methodist Church

The United Methodist Church is the second-largest Protestant denomination in America. Some well-known Methodists include former President George W. Bush, former First Lady Hillary Clinton, Rosa Parks, and George Lucas. Since the 1800s Methodist Hospital in South Philadelphia has cared for the city’s sick along with many other institutions. Albright College in Reading, PA affirms its historic roots in Methodist tradition. And nearby Ocean City, New Jersey began its life in the mid-nineteenth century as a Methodist camp meeting. These, along with a host of other community agencies and ministries, were all started by Methodists.

United Methodists are evangelical, but moderates rather than fundamentalists. We value the intellect and modern science - while at the same time, look to the Bible as the authoritative guide for faith and practice.

Methodists have a passionate faith with strong convictions, but we also recognize that the world is not always black and white. We are willing to ask questions, to wrestle with difficult issues, and to do so with grace and compassion.

Methodists have been known for our emphasis on a personal faith that is lived out in concrete ways in the world. We have historically valued, well-informed, and passionate preaching. We have lively worship and offer many small group discussions where people can grow in faith. Methodists have open hearts and open minds. We welcome anyone interested in learning more about the Christian faith.