Our story
From its earliest days, Frankenmuth United Methodist Church has been a diverse and welcoming congregation, bringing together people from a wide range of faith backgrounds. In the early 1960s, local Methodists, sensing the absence of a Methodist presence in the community, began gathering informally in homes. By 1962, under the leadership of Reverend James Smith, sixty-eight charter members came together to worship at what is now List School.
That same year, the congregation demonstrated a strong spirit of Christian unity by opening its new building to the newly formed Blessed Trinity Catholic Church for their services. This shared arrangement continued until April 1976, when Blessed Trinity completed its own facility on Tuscola Road.
Service has always been central to the church’s identity. One early example was the monthly “Bread Pan” offering—named for the literal metal bread pans used to collect donations—which supported efforts to combat hunger and assist those in need locally and around the world. This tradition of giving continues today.
In 2004, the church expanded its outreach through the opening of the Clothesline Resale Shop, founded by volunteer Mary McEwen. Reflecting the church’s ecumenical spirit, the shop partnered with several other local congregations, including Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, St. Lorenz Lutheran Church, St. John’s Lutheran Church, and the Bible Church. Open to all, the shop donates its profits each year to local charities.
Further strengthening community partnerships, the church joined other area congregations in supporting the CrossRoads Counseling Ministry, a Christ-centered program offering professional counseling and educational services.
In 2020, the global coronavirus pandemic brought unexpected challenges. Although in-person gatherings were suspended, the church adapted by investing in technology and developing a strong online presence, continuing its mission in new ways.
Today, Frankenmuth United Methodist Church remains an active and vibrant community. Through discipleship groups, programs for children and youth, music ministries, outreach efforts, and mission work, the congregation continues to nurture faith and fellowship while living out its Christian witness.
