Medford’s first congregation of the Methodist Church was organized in 1821.
Within three years, the first church building was constructed on Branch Street. Continued growth necessitated the construction of another new church only 30 years later — a building which now houses a community church in Medford Village.
In 1972, the Methodists were again on the move. The first service of the Medford United Methodist Church at 2 Hartford Road was held on Jan. 7, 1973.
Wonderful history and continued membership through family generations are some of the hallmarks of this United Methodist congregation.
Yet, new things are certainly afoot in the old church. Two new pastors were appointed to Medford UMC in July. The sermons delivered and pastoral care offered are getting rave reviews.
Rev. Joe Monahan, the new senior pastor, is a native of Pennsylvania and former engineer with IBM.
After serving seven years in Morris County, he is leading a South Jersey church for the first time. It’s not totally unfamiliar territory, though, since his wife Stephanie is from Williamstown.
Working diligently alongside Joe as associate pastor is Rev. Kathleen Stolz. A native of New Jersey, a graduate of Montclair State and Drew University’s Theological School, Stolz brings to Medford a diverse portfolio of 23 years in ministry in various areas of New Jersey, Arizona and Africa.
Stolz and her husband, Rich, are enjoying the community of Medford and are especially pleased to be part of the Medford United Methodist Church where the focus is on ministry with children, youth and serving others in mission.
Sunday School classes, youth fellowship groups, vocal and bell choirs, confirmation classes, mission and outreach projects are only some of the opportunities available for children within and outside the walls of the Medford UMC.
Although proudly steeped in a rich history of service to its congregants and the community, MUMC is thrilled to have this new pastoral team to bring an inspirational Christian experience to all who enters its doors.
Traditional services are held every Sunday at 8:15 and 11 a.m., with an exciting informal service at 9:30 a.m. Sunday School classes for all ages also begin at 9:30 a.m.; youth groups for third through 12th grades meet for two hours each Sunday evening at 6 p.m.
