According to Belden church history, the first Methodist sermon was delivered in Grafton Township in 1817. There were return visits by the traveling preacher. The first gatherings were in homes. Eventually a structure wa s built for use as a school, community building, and church. In 1850, a church was built on land purchased for $30. The people, who call themselves Methodists, were taking root. We still gather on the same holy ground.

Needless to say, things have changed over 160 years. The footprint of the building has changed to accommodate missional needs. The names and faces of people have changed. Candles, wells, and outhouses have given way to electric lights and indoor plumbing. We travel by automobile rather than horse or foot.

And yet, many things have remained the same. We walk on the same ground. Light still enters through old stained glass windows that compliment the light of the modern windows. Greetings are exchanged and music and singing is still heard. Scripture is still read, studied and a message proclaimed. Prayers are lifted. Babies are baptized.

Individual lives are changed as we encounter the presence of the Risen Christ. Youth are still confirmed in the faith. People are invited to the Lord’s Table to taste and see the goodness of God. Couples are married. And we say farewell to brothers and sisters in Christ until we meet again. We still reach out to people in the world around us.

Although much has changed, we continue to walk in a long line of faithful followers so future generations will be blessed through this body of Christ.