The history of Ebenezer church

Discover the rich history of Ebenezer Methodist Church, a legacy that began in 1832 and continues to inspire faith and fellowship today. From its humble origins as a meeting house to becoming a cornerstone of the Bowman community, Ebenezer’s story is one of growth, generosity, and unwavering devotion. This timeline highlights key milestones that have shaped our church’s journey, reflecting nearly two and a half centuries of worship, service, and shared purpose.

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Ebenezer Church Timeline

  • A plat of land in the general area of George Washington Huff's property marks the potential location of the church. (Source: 1)

  • Ebenezer Methodist Church was officially founded, as reported in The Centennial of the Southern Christian Advocate on June 24, 1937. (Source: 2)

  • A certificate for the sale of 2 acres of land (more or less) was granted to John Jackson for $1.00. The land was originally granted to Henry Judah. Trustees signing the sale included John Connor Sr., David Connor, Christian Hof, Daniel Hoaf, William Hill, and John Whetsell. (Source: 2)

  • It is believed that Christian Huff donated the land on which the present church sits, though no records have been located to verify this claim. (Source: 1)

  • Bishop: Reverend G.F. Pierce
    Presiding Elder: Reverend A.M. Christburg
    Preacher: Reverend J.D. Crook
    A church register from 1865–1917 lists all bishops, presiding elders, and preachers. (Source: 2)

  • January 7, 1894, Charge Conference Minutes: Preacher C.H. Clyde reported that all appointments were met and expressed encouragement. The Sunday school was reported to be in good condition, and a Women’s Missionary Society and Children’s Auxiliary Society were in place. (Source: 2)

  • March 17, 1894, Charge Conference Minutes: The preacher had been visiting and praying with church members. Sunday school was thriving. $27.50 was raised for the pastor's support. (Source: 2)

  • September 29, 1895, Charge Meeting Minutes: Spiritual life in the church was healthy, and Sunday school was growing. $66.00 had been paid for ministerial support, and $3.25 was donated to the poor. (Source: 2)

  • January 29, 1896, Charge Conference Minutes: The church was assessed $243.00 for the support of Reverend J.C. Young. A committee was appointed to raise the funds. (Source: 2)

  • September 19, 1897, Charge Conference Minutes: Assessment for the minister and the presiding elder was $255.00. Funds raised included $89.50 for ministerial support, $13.50 for Children’s Day offering, and $15.00 for a new well. (Source: 2)

  • May 10, 1901, Charge Conference Minutes: An effort was made to purchase land from D.R. Whetsell to extend the church grounds. A committee was appointed to handle the transaction. (Source: 2)

  • February 21, 1904, Charge Conference Minutes: Pastor Reverend A.B. Watson recommended beautifying the church grounds with a lawn and installing a hitching post. (Source: 2)

  • Ebenezer experienced significant turmoil during this decade, resulting in half of the members and all the leaders leaving the church. (Source: 1)

  • Reverend L.W. Smith was the pastor at this time. (Source: 2)

  • A church organ was purchased to enhance the music ministry. (Source: 2)

  • The sanctuary was renovated under the leadership of Reverend L.S. Woodham. (Source: 2)

  • Ebenezer joined the newly formed United Methodist Church. (Source: 6)

  • A new hall was built to accommodate church functions and gatherings. (Source: 2)

  • A bequest from Lelia Myers was received by the church to support ongoing ministries. (Source: 2)

  • Stained glass windows were installed, adding beauty to the sanctuary. (Source: 2)

  • The Ebenezer Register, a historical record of the church, was published by Mary Riser. (Source: 1)

  • The church celebrated its 100th anniversary with a special service in the sanctuary. (Source: 1)

  • A cookbook titled Ebenezer Edibles was published, featuring favorite recipes from church members. (Source: 2)

  • A bathroom was added off the vestibule to improve church facilities. (Source: 2)

  • The scholarship fund was created, with specific restrictions for eligibility. (Source: 2)

  • The global pandemic forced churches to close temporarily. Ebenezer adapted by offering Sunday school via Zoom and Reverend Mike Written delivered sermons on YouTube. After reopening, the church continued streaming services for several months and undertook renovations, including the removal of the steeple and expansion of the social hall. (Source: 6)

  • Laurie Branch Milligan was hired as the Coordinator for Youth and Children’s Ministries. She began holding Children's Church during the worship service, replacing traditional Sunday school classes. The church also supported Operation Shoebox with significant success. (Source: 6)

  • The church produced a photo book showcasing members and their contributions. Notable activities included youth mission work at Asbury Hills Camp and ongoing programs such as Easter celebrations, Fall Festival, and Soup and Santa. The church continued quarterly fellowship suppers and provided funeral meals. Laity also led worship services in the absence of the pastor. (Source: 6)

  • Ebenezer United Methodist Church members voted to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church by a margin of 47 in favor and 4 against. The vote was presided over by UMC District Superintendent Kenneth Nelson. (Source: 6)

  • Forty members voted to join the Global Methodist Church (GMC), while 4 members voted against the move. (Source: 6)

  • The Ebenezer United Methodist Women (UMW) voted to become inactive and began closing their accounts. (Source: 6)

  • Ninety-six members submitted paperwork to join Ebenezer Methodist Church of Bowman, Inc., while 5 chose not to. At the end of June, the church had 94 members (49 females, 45 males). (Source: 6)

  • The church legally regained ownership of its property and chose to remain in the Bowman Charge, alongside White House and Wightman churches. The former UMW group transitioned to become Ebenezer Women in Mission. (Source: 6)

Updated by Anne Weathers | November 1, 2024

Sources:

  1. The Ebenezer Register by Mary Riser, First Edition, 1995.

  2. "A History of Ebenezer Methodist Church," researched by Maggie M.H. Whetsell.

  3. "The History of the Music Department of Ebenezer" by Anne Huff Weathers.

  4. Other historical documents and photographs.

  5. Interviews with church members.

  6. Anne Weathers: documents, memory, minutes, and various sources.