First United Methodist Church of Lake Charles will celebrate 150 years in downtown Lake Charles this Sunday. We had to postpone the celebration last year because of COVID and hurricane repairs.
First Methodist started in 1871 at the corner of Broad and Bilbo Street. In 1928, the church moved to a new sanctuary and a new location at the corner of Broad and Kirkman Street, and has been there ever since.
I sometimes look at the pictures of past senior pastors of the church hanging on a wall in our church. Forty-five pastors have served the church. I look upon them with admiration and respect. Some were here for only a couple of years. Some were here for five or seven years or even longer.
The first pastor was Rev. Thomas Mullett in 1871. One after the other, they have served the church since then. During the Great Depression and during two world wars. During the changes of the 1960's, fires and hurricanes, they continued their service. Each one in his own unique way left an impact on the lives of people and our community.
I think of the many faithful members of the church who loved and supported the church because they loved Christ. I am inspired by their sacrificial giving and untiring work.
Our faith today remains strong. Jesus said, “I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (Matt. 16:18)
One hundred fifty years in downtown Lake Charles, growing and looking with faith to the future!