The Scriptures declare, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” Grace Community United Methodist Church exists today because faithful men and women embraced God’s vision with courage, sacrifice, and perseverance. Their prayers and commitment established a Methodist presence in the northern section of Chester, Pennsylvania, that continues to this day.
In 1922, God placed a vision on the heart of Brother Ebin B. Doman, who suggested to Reverend Hughes, then pastor of St. Daniel’s Methodist Church, that a new church be established in the growing Crozer Terrace area. Reverend Hughes agreed, and the work began.
Early worship services were held in the homes of dedicated believers. With the help of a $300 loan, property was purchased on Central Avenue, and in 1924, the first church building was constructed.
The first appointed pastor was Rev. R. H. Coleman.
In 1954, Interstate 95 construction required the demolition of the original church building. The congregation worshiped temporarily at the Ruth L. Bennett Homes Community Center before entering the present building at 1213 Central Avenue in April 1957, on Palm Sunday.
We thank God for all the pastors who have served with faithful and excellent leadership over the years, helping to shape Grace Community into the church it is today.
In 1968, following the merger of The Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Brethren Church, the congregation became known as Grace United Methodist Church.
On April 29, 1992, the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference approved the consolidation of Grace United Methodist Church and Community United Methodist Church. The union became official on January 1, 1993, forming Grace Community United Methodist Church.
Grace Community United Methodist Church continues to worship and serve at 1213 Central Avenue, Chester, PA 19013.
Pastor Mike Nelson was installed as Senior Pastor on July 21, 2024.
Thanks be to God.