How it all started...
The first Methodist classes were held in 1864 in the home of Mr. John Poor (which is currently known as the Denton Place). In 1872 the congregation organized and held services in a grove or a personal home during inclimate weather. In 1883 the congregation purchased a lot on the corner of Washington and Green Street, and in August of 1885 erected the first Methodist Church building. The Methodist church prospered and grew. During the 1890's Sunday school was organized in the afternoon, and boasted an average attendance of 80 children.
by 1928 the congregation outgrew the current facility. So, a building was purchased from the Wallace sisters on the corner of Smith and Washington. During the depression, the church fell upon hard times. The District Superintendent encouraged the church to close, but the people refused to let the Methodist church die due to financial needs and was forced to sell part of the property to Roberts-Judson Lumber Company. The Methodists continued worshiping in the Wallace House until 1980 when a new property was purchased a few blocks west, where the current United Methodist Church now resides. To preserve the history of the church, arrangements were made to bring the original stained glass windows from the Wallace House and placed in the sanctuary of the new church. The church again prospered and once again outgrew the facilities. In 1996 a new addition was built to house a larger sanctuary, and fellowship hall.
by 1928 the congregation outgrew the current facility. So, a building was purchased from the Wallace sisters on the corner of Smith and Washington. During the depression, the church fell upon hard times. The District Superintendent encouraged the church to close, but the people refused to let the Methodist church die due to financial needs and was forced to sell part of the property to Roberts-Judson Lumber Company. The Methodists continued worshiping in the Wallace House until 1980 when a new property was purchased a few blocks west, where the current United Methodist Church now resides. To preserve the history of the church, arrangements were made to bring the original stained glass windows from the Wallace House and placed in the sanctuary of the new church. The church again prospered and once again outgrew the facilities. In 1996 a new addition was built to house a larger sanctuary, and fellowship hall.
Expanding the vision...
Cuba United Methodist Church is continuing the vision of John Wesley of being the hands a feet of Christ in the community. Aside from holding weekly worship services, Cuba UMC is active in the Cuba community. Current missions include our newly formed Blessing Ministry, assisting with the Ministerial Alliance Food Pantry, a Laundry ministry, Children's Church, Discipleship development through small groups, an active Quilting Ministry within the community, a very active Music Ministry, as well as being active in assisting the Crawford County schools in addressing needs in the community.
Where we are headed...
The Covid Pandemic has dramatically altered how churches worship and increased the need for ministry in the community. Cuba UMC is developing ways to worship from the safety of one's home, while still feeling connected and part of the Cuba UMC church family. We also hope to transform individual lives by bringing the gospel of Jesus Christ to those in need through new ways. Our hope is to continue sharing the love of Christ and meet the growing needs of the community for the glory of God's kingdom.
