Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, Hebrews 12:1

Our Heritage at FirstChurch

A Short History of First United Methodist Church – San Angelo

parsonpotterpreaching-200Methodism was spread in the frontier by ministers called Circuit Riders.  Andrew Jackson “Parson” Potter, a Methodist Circuit Rider, came to the Concho Valley area in 1880 and established the Union Sunday School at Ben Ficklin.  The Union Sunday School moved to San Angelo, a settlement called “over the river” after the flood in 1882.  Potter began to preach in the saloons in 1882 with a six shooter on his side, a Winchester on the pulpit, and a Bible and a songbook in his hands.
He obtained enough money form a poker game to build the first church building in San Angela, later to become San Angelo. The little church was the first church of any denomination to be built between Mason and El Paso.

This Methodist Church was used as a town hall, a place for various political and community affairs, and many social events.  Soon the little church was replaced by an Akron church in 1904.  This church burned in 1945 and was replaced by the current Gothic sanctuary in 1950.

First United Methodist Church, known as the “historical cathedral” church, has been noted for the fine pipe organ and beautiful stained glass windows.  The church has been known for its outstanding music programs.  The church has always been a leader in the community in its outreach in the local mission field.  The church sponsors Boy Scout Troop 1, and a Cub Scout pack. Along with providing leadership for a Girl Scout troop and a dynamic youth choir/drama team called “Spirit”.

On Sundays there are two traditional morning worship services, one contemporary service, and many Sunday School classes.  Various studies and programs are offered throughout the year.

First United Methodist Church has been in San Angelo for more than 126 years, offering an open door to all who come to seek the Word. The members of FUMC-San Angelo are charged to keep the Spirit alive!

sanctuary1-200 sanctuary2-200 sanctuary3-200

Timeline

1882    First Sanctuary – 40' x 60' wood structure
1904    Akron Sanctuary built with Pilcher organ
1907    First parsonage built
1911    Boy Scout Troop 1 started
1924    Massie Education Building built
1945    Akron church building burned – church held in city auditorium
1950    Gothic (current) Sanctuary completed with Moller organ
1972    Church marked with historical marker by Texas Historical Commission
1991    Playground built on site of old Weeks Drug Store
1992    Cactus Hotel and parking garage purchased – hotel deeded to Historic City Center Project, Inc.
2000    Heritage Hall and offices, kitchen, library, and courtyard completed
2001    Celebration Hall and classrooms completed
2005    Columbarium completed

Our Pastors