A Story of Faith
Through new buildings, faithful pastors, and generations of committed members, Epworth has stood as a beacon of hope—reaching out with the reconciling love of Jesus Christ.
A Walk Back in Time
From a handful of faithful Methodists in 1892 to a thriving congregation that continues to serve Fort Dodge today, the story of Epworth United Methodist Church is one of courage, creativity, and community.
1892 – 1908
Humble Beginnings
Epworth’s roots trace back to 1892, when a small Methodist Class met in the Gypsum Mills Community under the leadership of Rev. John A. Kettle.
By 1906, the group began gathering in a small schoolhouse near South 22nd Street. Led by Bert Craft and Laverna Decker, that early Sunday School became the foundation for a new church.
On January 27, 1908, Rev. George Fort invited members to formally organize what would become the Epworth Methodist Church, named after the English village where John and Charles Wesley were born. Two donated lots and a $100 pledge from Mrs. Isaac Garmoe helped build the first church, dedicated on July 12, 1908.
Miss Addie Haw, Epworth’s first Deaconess, recalled arriving by horse and buggy to find a joyful congregation saying farewell to their schoolhouse.
Growth and Foundations
Under early pastors such as Rev. M. P. Arrasmith, membership grew from seven to sixty-two, and ministries flourished—including the Epworth League, which elected Albert Newsum as its first president.
By the early 1920s, Epworth had outgrown its first home. Rev. T. J. Pettit led the construction of a larger sanctuary, completed and dedicated on July 15, 1924, at a cost of $50,000.
The years that followed brought challenges. The Great Depression strained finances, yet under pastors like Rev. K. W. G. Hiller and Rev. Arthur G. Peterson, members rallied—hosting dinners, concerts, and countless socials to keep the church alive.
Men even mortgaged personal property to protect the church from foreclosure, demonstrating a steadfast faith that defined the congregation’s character.
1911 – 1937
1937 – 1950
Serving In Hard Times
Rev. Marion L. Sunderlin (1937–1940) helped reduce Epworth’s debt, while his wife directed the choir. His resourcefulness was legendary—once accepting a used car and even a cemetery lot as donations to help the church!
In the 1940s, Rev. B. M. Watson led Epworth in acts of compassion. When the newly formed Holy Rosary Catholic Parish lacked a place to worship, Epworth opened its doors, offering their basement every Sunday for nearly a year (1945–46).
Mid-Century Faith
1950 – 1965
The post-war years were rich with activity and fellowship. A new chapel was dedicated in 1955, and beloved 24-Hour Prayer Vigils brought members together day and night for worship.
The 1950s were also the golden age of potlucks, quilting parties, and fundraising dinners. “Chicken-noodle luncheons,” ice-cream socials, and quilting bees filled the fellowship hall with laughter and community spirit.
1965 – 1976
Building the Future
In 1965, Rev. Ernest F. Martin challenged the church to dream big: to build a new sanctuary and educational wing. By 1967, the new Epworth building stood ready for consecration on October 27.
A few years later, under Rev. Robert MacCanon, the mortgage was paid in full. On December 7, 1975, members gathered for a joyful Mortgage Burning Ceremony, followed by a grand Service of Dedication on October 24, 1976, led by Bishop Lance Webb.
Renewal and Reflection
1970 – 1988
Pastoral leadership in these decades included:
Rev. Charles LaVerne Birchmier (1970–1974)
Rev. Robert Russell MacCanon (1974–1981)
Rev. William C. Trembly, Jr. (1981– present at time of writing)
Membership peaked at 1,006 in 1956 and stood at 407 by 1988. In 1983, a study on inactive members reaffirmed Epworth’s dedication to meaningful engagement.
In 1984, the congregation adopted its mission statement, which continues to guide Epworth’s ministry today:
“As children of God, disciples of Jesus Christ, we the body called Epworth United Methodist Church, through dedicated study of God’s Word, recognize and accept our responsibilities as youth and adults, filled with the Holy Spirit, to start where we are and reach out into the neighborhood and world to touch all with the reconciling love of Jesus Christ.”
What We Do Today
Discover the warmth of community at Epworth UMC. Join us for our free community suppers every Tuesday or our Saturday vegetarian lunches. Be part of something bigger by volunteering at our quilting group or participating in our seasonal sales. Your presence makes a difference. Come and be fed in every way.