On June 28, the Medford United Methodist Church broke ground on a long-awaited expansion. Their new Family Life Center will eventually house a large space for contemporary worship, dinners, youth activities and community events as well as new classroom spaces. “This has been a dream of the church for over ten years,” said Pastor Joe Monahan. “A lot of people have worked very hard to get us to the place where we can finally see this vision become reality.” The first phase of the project, which includes land clearing, utility and site work performed by Blue Rock Construction of Burlington, will be completed in September. Construction of the building itself is expected to begin in 2016.
The congregation plans to use the new space to expand its programs for children and youth.“Every year, we run out of space for Vacation Bible School,” said Associate Pastor Kathleen Stolz, who oversees the program. “It will be great to host youth programs in the new facility. It will also have room for half-court basketball and volleyball.”
The addition, designed by Medford architect and church member Michael Pagnotta, is the first expansion of the facility since 1982, when a large education wing was added to house the church’s preschool program, offices, choir room and Sunday School classrooms. The church has been located at the corner of Hartford, Taunton and Himmelein Roads since 1972, when it moved from its original location on Branch Street in Medford Village. The church was organized in 1821 and throughout its history has adapted its ministry to meet the needs of the congregation and community.
“It’s important to us that we engage the people of Medford,” said Lay Leader Ginger Harriett, whose family has been involved in the congregation over multiple generations. “Our new building will include a stage that will make it a great performance space, and we’re excited to use it for events that will connect with our local community.”
Last year, the church adopted Medford Park off Mill Street and has sent several teams of adults and youth to clean up the park, clearing weeds and spreading mulch. Several times a year the church conducts food and diaper drives and there is a team who volunteers weekly to rebuild homes damaged by Superstorm Sandy. “The congregation is always looking for new ministry opportunities and it’s our hope that this new building will provide us with even more avenues for making a difference in our community,” Pastor Monahan said.
During the summer, the church meets on Sundays at 9 and 10:30 a.m. Learn more by visiting medfordumc.org.
For further information, please contact:
Medford United Methodist Church
Rev. Joe Monahan, Pastor
2 Hartford Road
Medford, NJ 08055
609/654–8111
medfordumc.org
