A Legacy of Faith in the Concho Valley
The story of First Methodist Church, San Angelo stretches back more than 140 years to the earliest days of Methodism in West Texas.
In the late 1800s, Methodism spread across the frontier through traveling ministers known as circuit riders. In 1880, Methodist circuit rider Andrew Jackson “Parson” Potter arrived in the Concho Valley and established the Union Sunday School at Ben Ficklin.
Following the devastating flood of 1882, the Sunday School moved to the growing settlement of San Angela, located “over the river.” Potter began preaching wherever people would gather—even in local saloons.
San Angelo’s First Church
Parson Potter was known as a colorful frontier preacher. According to church history, he preached with a six-shooter at his side, a Winchester near the pulpit, and a Bible and songbook in hand.
He eventually raised enough money to construct the first church building in San Angela, which would later become San Angelo. The small Methodist church was the first church building of any denomination between Mason and El Paso.
From the beginning, the church served more than its congregation. The building became a gathering place for the growing community, hosting town meetings, political and civic gatherings, social events, and worship.
Growing Through the Generations
As San Angelo grew, so did First Methodist. The original church was eventually replaced by an Akron-style church in 1904.
Tragedy struck in 1945 when the church building burned. The congregation rebuilt, and in 1950, the beautiful Gothic-style Sanctuary that continues to serve our congregation today was completed.
Through the generations, First Methodist has become known for its beautiful stained-glass windows, pipe organ, music ministries, worship, missions, and service to the San Angelo community.
Our Story Continues
Buildings and ministries have changed throughout the years, but the heart of First Methodist remains rooted in worshiping God, making disciples of Jesus Christ, and serving others.
Today, generations continue to gather at First Methodist for worship, Sunday School, Bible studies, fellowship, missions, and ministry.
Each Sunday, we offer three worship opportunities:
8:30 am – Blended Worship in the Sanctuary
9:30 am – Sunday School
10:45 am – Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary
11:00 am – The Eleventh Hour in Celebration Hall
We are grateful for the faithful people who built the foundation of First Methodist, thankful for those who continue its ministry today, and excited for the next chapter God is writing in our story.
More than 140 years later, First Methodist Church continues to be a place to worship, belong, grow, and serve in the heart of San Angelo.