History of Epworth UMC at Candler Park

Epworth United Methodist Church has a rich and inspiring history. In the fall of 1890, twenty-two charter members organized this church with Mrs. C. W. Smith suggesting the name Epworth. The first services were held in the Mason Academy on the corner of Mason and McLendon Avenues with Rev. J. W. Colley as the first pastor. The first church was built in 1892 on the corner of South Mason Avenue and LaFrance Street on property donated by Mrs. A. E. Bennett. In 1897, this church was struck by lightning and totally destroyed by fire. Immediately, under the leadership of Rev. S. B. Ledbetter, members and friends rallied and decided to build again on the same lot.

Epworth gained in membership and by 1925, the congregation decided a new church should be built. During the pastorate of Rev. R. Z. Tyler, a building program was instituted. When Rev. R. A. Edmondson came as minister, he followed through with the plans and a lot in the 1500 block of McLendon Avenue was purchased. Here the Educational Building was completed and the first service was held on November 4, 1928. Plans were then laid for the building of a Sanctuary, but these plans were not undertaken until after March 4, 1945 when the Church School Building was dedicated.

Funds for the building of the Sanctuary were raised in usual ways. On Sunday, September 7, 1952, Rev. Charles. W. Fruit preached the sermon which marked the opening of the House of Worship. On May 17, 1959, the Sanctuary was dedicated during the ministry of Rev. Dwight Nysewander. The Educational Building was then remodeled to serve its intended purpose as a Sunday School plant.

Throughout the years Epworth has served this community with loyalty and devotion. In the field of service Epworth played a part in sending out these ministers: The Rev. Carl J. Dodds, Jr., The Rev. Robert Bridges, The Rev. Guy Sharpe, and The Rev. Jack Reaves. Walter Turner and Clay Turner who grew up as members of Epworth have become full-time ministers. Epworth has been the training ground for students from the Candler School of Theology for many years, and in turn has appreciated their services and presence.

Narrated by Francis Spratling, 1986.

This website is under construction!