Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church Celebrates 150th Anniversary with Three-Day Event
Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church, situated approximately three miles northwest of Champaign in Hensley Township, will mark its 150th anniversary with a series of events scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 15, Saturday, Aug. 17, and Sunday, Aug. 18. The church is located at 2201 County Road 900 East, Champaign.
Festivities will include:
- Thursday, Aug. 15: A free presentation sponsored by the Champaign County History Museum will take place at 7 p.m. Attendees will learn about the history of the 150-year-old church building. Registration in advance is required. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., with cookies and coffee provided.
- Saturday, Aug. 17: An open house from 1 to 4 p.m. will feature meet and greets with former pastors, light refreshments, and family activities. Local musician Marvin Lee will perform at 2 p.m., and a bounce house and yard games will be available throughout the afternoon.
- Sunday, Aug. 18: The day will begin with a worship service at 10:30 a.m., followed by lunch at noon. At 1 p.m., a program will include remarks from former pastors, special music, and a history of the church.
Pastor Rob Adams and other sesquicentennial celebration planners will be available for interviews during the events. Members of the media are welcome to attend.
Historical Background:
Mt. Vernon’s legacy began in 1872 when Sara Phillippe Buckles donated an acre of land. The church was built on this site and dedicated on Aug. 14, 1874. A basement was added in 1939, and several renovations over the years have transformed the facility from one with separate entrances for men and women to a modern establishment. Today, it is home to a close-knit church community dedicated to serving others.
Directions:
To reach Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church, take Mattis Avenue north from Champaign to 2200 North, approximately three miles north of Olympian Drive. Turn west and drive one mile to the church, located at the intersection of 2200 North and 900 East.
