Elam United Methodist Church
Vision Statement
Elam United Methodist Church
is a community of people who proclaim God’s love for all people in Jesus Christ in a caring and compassionate way.
We are faithful to our biblical heritage, respectful of our diversity, enriching our souls through worship,
serving God and our neighbors, and always striving to be a light in our community in this increasingly complex world.
We seek to become Jesus' hands and heart in the world and in our community by inviting and welcoming all, being
in dialogue with everyone and living our lives for so much more.
In 1875 a group of people inspired by Brandywine Summit Camp Meeting
services, which had just ended, continued the revival spirit in a tent on the
Thomas W. Johnson property at the corner of Route 202 and Naaman’s Creek Road.
A short time later, the tent was replaced by a board chapel.
Land was purchased in 1879 at the church’s present location and the chapel
was moved here. The charter was signed in October and the church was officially
called Elam Methodist Episcopal Church.
In 1883 a one-room church made of native serpentine stone was built to
replace the chapel. In the early 1900s a parsonage was bought near the corner of
Route 202 and Smithbridge Road. In 1928 a vestibule was added to the church and
a year later, a social hall was built.
In 1939 the Methodist Episcopal Church, North merged with the Methodist
Protestant Church and the Methodist Episcopal Church, South to form The
Methodist Church. In 1968, The Methodist Church merged with the
Evangelical United Brethren Church, becoming our present United Methodist
Church.
Due to tremendous growth, a new sanctuary and gallery area were added in
1967. Of special interest in the sanctuary is the large stained glass window
named the "Children’s Window." It stretches from floor to ceiling
behind the altar and the design of the cross can be seen in the random
arrangement of the stained glass. Five years later, the present parsonage was
constructed.
Additional space was needed so on Palm Sunday 1985, ground breaking was held
for a new addition. On Palm Sunday 1986, a preschool complex, new narthex,
chapel, kitchen, and family life center were dedicated.
In September 2001, a major addition and renovation of the church that
included an large educational facility, improved office spaces and additional
gathering space was completed.
Elam continues to build upon the richness of the past as it grows in numbers
and in love and obedience to the will of God.