 Mishawaka
First United Methodist Church began when a
circuit rider visited in 1834. The church was
formally organized on July 19, 1835. Since that
moment, this great church has served the
combined community of Mishawaka and South Bend,
and indeed has considered the whole world as
part of its parish. Its members form a family of
forgiving and loving people who seek the
abundant life through worship, prayer, and
service.
 The present
building, the fourth in First's history, was
constructed in 1912. It is considered to be one
of the best examples of Collegiate Gothic
architecture in the Midwest. It's unique stained
glass windows, the large
Ascension Window,
the
Rose Window,
the
Arch Angel Window,
and the
Jesus with the Children
Window, have been
admired not only by members but by thousands of
tourists. The
church also has a Carillon, one of the only two in
the Michiana area. The bells are inscribed with
Psalm 150. Designed and structured in every
detail to be a holy sanctuary, First United
Methodist Church offers peace and serenity to
all who worship here.
Unfortunately, the
architectural firm from Cleveland, Ohio is long
out of business. We have scant information about
the decisions the architect made as he designed
First Church. When the owner of the business
died, his widow burned all his records. But all
of us here feel that his enduring work is a
clarion record of a faithful steward. He
practiced his calling with the utmost of care.
And that caring is a signal token of the caring
of the congregation.
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