NOWATA FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

The Nowata First United Methodist Church is a historic Methodist congregation located in Nowata, Oklahoma, with roots tracing back to the late 19th century during the period when the area was known as Indian Territory. The church is part of the United Methodist denomination and has played a significant role in the spiritual and communal life of the Nowata area since its establishment.

History

The origins of the church date back to 1892, with records indicating the existence of Methodist ministry in the Lenapah and Nowata communities as part of the Indian Territory Conference, which functioned as a mission conference at that time. Early pastoral leadership included T.D. Saffel in 1893, and the church relied on mission funding to supplement modest salaries. By 1899, the first Methodist church building in Nowata was constructed—a small white church located on the site of the present church. This early building also served as a federated place of worship shared by Methodist and Presbyterian congregations between 1902 and 1909, with ministers from both denominations alternating services.

In 1903, the church circuit expanded to include Oologah and Lenapah, and a parsonage was established in Nowata. Improvements continued, including interior enhancements and additions to the church building by 1906, alongside growth in membership by 100 new members. The years 1902 to 1909 saw the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, merge congregations with the Methodist church, creating a unified body within the community. A Ladies Aid Society was formed in 1908, with Mrs. George Colter serving as the first president. By 1909, the Presbyterians had moved to their own building, and the Methodist church membership took on the full responsibility for the pastor's salary and parsonage upkeep.

A new church building was constructed in 1910, replacing the earlier structure and serving as a focal point for worship and community activities. The land for the Methodist church was donated by local benefactors George Martin and his brother. Over the decades, the church has maintained active ministries and community outreach programs, adapting its mission to the changing needs of Nowata’s residents.

Ministry and Community Involvement

Historically, the Nowata First United Methodist Church has emphasized fellowship and service, including ministries to feed the poor and support families. Programs such as Dinners With Love and Loaves and Fishes have been integral to these efforts, providing meals and outreach to those in need. Although some ministries faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, the church has continued to explore new outreach models. Recent initiatives include a mothers’ ministry aimed at feeding families and fostering community relationships, supported by part-time employment of local coordinators to sustain these efforts.

Significance

The Nowata First United Methodist Church stands as a testament to the endurance and evolving mission of Methodism in Oklahoma from the territorial days through statehood to the present. Its history reflects broader patterns of religious cooperation, community building, and service in a small but historically significant Oklahoma town. The church remains an active institution within the United Methodist Church, continuing its commitment to worship, education, and outreach.

This article synthesizes historical data spanning the church’s founding in the 1890s, structural developments in the early 20th century, and ongoing community ministries, reflecting the longstanding heritage and current mission of the Nowata First United Methodist Church[1][3][4].