History

The evangelist George Whitefield, colleague and friend of Methodism's founder, John Wesley, preached in Reading, October 10, 1740. Methodism had its real start in Reading in 1866 with the formal organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1867. Early services were held in Lyceum Hall until the first church was built on Ash Street in 1869 (now the American Legion Hall). By 1886 membership had grown to 150.

The Old South building was purchased from the Congregationalists in 1887. Destroyed by fire December 9, 1911, the structure was rebuilt and dedicated in 1913 with the same exterior design. The interior was changed by eliminating the balcony on three sides and elevating the sanctuary to the second floor, creating the vestry beneath. Accessibility was improved, culminating with a vertical lift to the sanctuary level in 1997.

By the mid-1950's church membership approached 1500 with more than 500 children in the Sunday School. In 1959, the educational wing, offices, and chapel were added. Decline in membership and attendance has reflected the national trend and local demographic changes. We now have 850 members, with attendance of 225, and church school enrollment of 150 children and 50 adults.

The church community continues a long tradition of serving both the community and the world beyond. Two services of worship and church school for all ages are held each Sunday morning.

Also, see our Rich Traditions section.