The Parsonage and First United Methodist Church in Canonsburg.

Our church is part of the Methodist movement, founded by John Wesley in 18th century England, a reformation of the Anglican Church in which Mr. Wesley was a pastor. That movement stood for biblical integrity and social justice. Mr. Wesley believed that Christians can only be true to the Word of God as long as they were caring for the downtrodden of the world. First Church was founded in 1842 by Rev. I. C. Pershing, great uncle of General John Pershing.

Our roots are intertwined with those of the region; our church traces its birth to the days when Mr. Pershing was a student at Jefferson College here in Canonsburg (now a part of Washington and Jefferson College in nearby Washington, Pa). He searched for other Methodists with whom he could share his faith. The group grew and prospered and became a chartered congregation in 1845.

Our first church building was built in 1847 on Greenside Ave, the first church building of any denomination within the boundaries of the borough. That building was sold to the pioneer Roman Catholics in 1887 and became Saint Patrick Church. A larger building was erected at that time on our present site.

The congregation has survived and flourished through a remarkable time in our nation’s and region’s history; she has seen growth and decline, joy and sorrow. But we keep one prayer constantly, one alone. To bear the name of Jesus Christ, who empowers us all to be his people!
 

To contact us:

First United Methodist Church
161 West Pike Street
Canonsburg, Pennsylvania 15317

Church Office: 724-745-5771
Parsonage: 724-745-8327

Email: Rev. Keith Simmons