First United Methodist Church of Brewster Celebrates 175th

First United Methodist Church of Brewster, a historical landmark, has a history that goes back to the circuit rider days. The first Methodist class meeting was held in Sodom in 1830. In 1834, two circuit-riding preachers, David Holmes and Alonzo F. Selleck, organized the First Methodist Society. It was incorporated as the Doanesville Methodist-Episcopal Church. In 1852, the name was changed to Heddingville Methodist-Episcopal Church, in honor of Bishop Hedding

The first church building was a plain wooden structure that was built largely by members of the congregation. Church membership increased as the Village of Brewster grew rapidly around the new rail head. A new larger church, the current church located at 83 Main St., was dedicated in January of 1864. The church, costing $16,000, was considered one of the finest buildings in the county.

2009 marked the actual 175th Anniversary, however, the special service and celebration took place on May 23, 2010, following the completion of two major projects. Donations made by two generous members of the congregation enabled the painting of the steeple and the redecoration of the Fellowship Hall. Freshly painted, both were bright and beautiful for the joyous occasion.

Rev. Kwang-il Kim welcomed 75 members and special guests, including the Resident Bishop of the NY Area -The Rev. Dr. Jeremiah J. Park and Mrs. Park, District Superintendent NY-CT - The Rev. Jeannette Bassinger-Ishii, Mayor James Schoenig of the Village of Brewster, and John Del Gardo, Chief Officer in Charge, Brewster Police. The dedicated pastors who served the church and our community since 1834 were remembered during the service.