Our Mission
At North United Methodist Church, our mission is to share the love and teachings of
Jesus Christ with our community and beyond. Our history is intertwined with the history of the city of Hartford,
and we strive to continue the legacy of our founders who established this church over 150 years ago. We value the
importance of community, and we seek to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can feel at
home. We are proud of our diversity, and we welcome people of all backgrounds and nationalities to join us in
worship, fellowship, and service.
We believe that relationships are at the heart of our faith, and we are committed to fostering meaningful
connections with God and with one another. Our church provides opportunities for spiritual growth through
worship services, Bible studies, prayer groups, and other activities. We recognize that we are all on a
journey of faith, and we strive to support each other as we navigate the joys and challenges of life. Whether
you are a lifelong Christian or just starting to explore your faith, you are welcome at North United
Methodist Church.
As a church, we are called to serve our community and to be a force for positive change. We are inspired by
the teachings of Jesus, who called us to love our neighbors as ourselves and to care for those in need. We
seek to put these teachings into action by supporting local organizations that serve the homeless, the
hungry, and the vulnerable. We also support international missions that provide aid and support to
communities in need around the world.
At North United Methodist Church, our mission is to be a loving and welcoming community of faith that
seeks to make a positive difference in the world. We invite you to join us on this journey of faith and
service, and we look forward to getting to know you better. Whether you are a longtime member or a
first-time visitor, we welcome you with open arms.
Our History
North United Methodist Church has a rich and intertwined history with the city of
Hartford. The church began in 1870 with a few devoted men and women holding prayer and class meetings on Clark
Street. The organization's first Sunday school was established on May 22, 1870, and soon the small room became
too small for the members. After selecting a site at the corner of Suffield (now Battle St.) and Wooster Street,
the chapel was dedicated to the worship of God on April 9, 1871, with 80 people in attendance. Rev. R. W. Jones
was assigned as the pastor, and trustees were elected on May 10, 1871. The church progressed slowly, and a new
building was finally erected on Windsor Avenue, which was used until the church relocated to the west end of
Hartford.
In 1914, North Church moved to its present site on Albany Avenue, which was a newly developing community. The new
location brought renewed enthusiasm and vibrancy as new members joined. In 1926, the church was completed when
the Austin Pipe Organ Opus 1412 and pews were dedicated in memory of Rev. Boynton, who was the pastor of the
church for one year. In 1940, after the Methodist Episcopal North and Methodist Episcopal Church South reunited
with the Methodist Protestant Church, North Methodist Episcopal Church North became North Methodist Church.
And in 1968, through a union between The Methodist Church and the United Evangelical Brethren Church, North
Methodist Church became North United Methodist Church.
During the 1960s, the church became actively involved in humanitarian causes such as civil rights,
homelessness, and poverty. North Church also helped the community transition in the late 1960s and 70s when
it began to change. After serving for thirty-three years, Rev. Robert Martin retired, and Rev. Hugh B.
Hamilton was appointed to lead the church into the twenty-first century. Many improvements have been made
to the church and parsonage, including the purchase of a van, repairs and upgrades on the organ, and new
office equipment. Today, North United Methodist Church continues to be a beacon of light in the community,
proudly boasting of its diversity, and is the only church in the greater Hartford area that can count
more than 20 nationalities among its membership.
Overall, North United Methodist Church has a long and fascinating history that reflects its commitment
to the community and the values it holds dear.
