 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Original |
1962 |
1964 |
1994 |
2004 |
2007 |
I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. Revelations 22:13 |
The Fruitland Park Community United Methodist History Page |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Original |
1962 |
1964 |
1994 |
2004 |
2007 |
The first Methodist preaching service recorded in Fruitland Park was, conducted two blocks south of the present church, under live oak trees by Mirror Lake in July 1883. Through diligent work and untiring efforts, Rev. G.W. Butler of the Southern Illinois Conference is credited with organizing the church. With proper notices given, the brethren met at the railroad station to complete the organization. On December 20, 1884, it was formally organized with 14 male charter members, being the first church in town. The church was available, then as today, to everyone feeling the need of a church whatever their religious affiliation thus, the "COMMUNITY" church.(1) The new congregation used a number of buildings for early meetings. The church's initial land acquisitions were two city lots on the corner of College Avenue and Fountain Street, where the original church stood. The lots were deeded September 1885 and January 1886 for $15 each. In the Spring of 1886, construction of the first Methodist church was started at 107 College Avenue. Those who could, gave money for materials, while others donated labor, all working for the common good. By January 1887, with the building enclosed and sufficiently furnished, it was occupied. With the indebtedness eliminated, the church was dedicated in February 1894. 
One Sunday morning in November 1934, the whole community came to church because the church was on fire, resulting in a total loss! The pastor called the people together for prayers in a community building across the street. Members of the church immediately started planning for the immediate rebuilding. Another denomination now uses the rebuilt facility.
The addition of our Family Life Center has opened new avenues for outreach and new programs. It offers opportunities that we could only hope for in the past. In addition to Church programs, it offers a place for our congregation and community to come together. Now we can come together and participate in concerts, Christian rallies, Wednesday dinners, afternoon programs for children, exercise classes, dance classes, square dancing, indoor walking or jogging programs, sports activities……….anything you can think of! (If you have an activity or an idea for one, let the Church office know so we can get it started.)
Click On A Link Below For More Construction History and Information
The Community United Methodist Church has been in the ministry in Fruitland Park and the tri-county area for over 118 years creating diversness, yet a united fellowship. Diversity of the congregation is strengthened by many members who have moved to the area from all parts of the country, and many yankee "Snowbirds." Our membership roll continues to increase and the church remains open to all people committed to Christ. (1) The early history extracted from The History of Fruitland Park, Florida , by Lillian D. Vickers-Smith, published by Fruitland Park Chamber of Commerce, no date, copy in Fruitland Park Public Library. For A More Detailed History and Additional Information Click Here For The 95th Anniversary Bulletin For Photos, Additional Information Click Here For The 125th Anniversary Celebration |
Five acres of land on the corner of College Avenue and Miller Street was purchased in 1959. Construction of the office, fellowship hall, and church commenced in 1962. The present sanctuary was erected in 1964. Subsequent building and improvements include widening the sanctuary in 1990, an education building in 1994, overhead covering the front and rear sidewalks, and memorial windows above the Chancel. Also, added were a memorial garden and a tower holding the original church's bell, that is rung every Sunday morning for our Call To Service. The church has a small building debt, yet maintains a growing building fund for future needs.
2001 saw the completion of the new parsonage and in 2004 constuction began on 