The History of Florala Methodist Church
1905
In 1905, the trustees of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, Florala Charge, Union Springs District, entered into a contract to purchase lots in the town of Florala, Alabama. In March 1905, the congregation appointed a five-member committee to locate a new site for a permanent Methodist church in Florala. In September of this same year, a contract was signed to erect a one-story church building. In November 1907, the church was dedicated as the First Methodist Episcopal Church South of Florala, Alabama. Church services were held continuously until 1934 when another more suitable building was obtained. Services were then held in the newly acquired old First National Bank building on Fifth Street.
Image restored and generously provided by:
PRECISION IMAGE PHOTOGRAPHY, Gary Jones, Florala
1948
In April 1944, the church congregation voted to dispose of the wooden bank building. The grounds were cleared, and additional land was purchased for the construction of a new sanctuary. In January 1947, construction began on a new brick sanctuary where services are currently held today. In 1948, on a Sunday afternoon, the cornerstone of the new church was ceremonially laid by Pastor C.E. Barnes. It was the prayer of the church members “that the erection of this building may be to the edification of all mankind and the glorification of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” The church was named Florala Methodist Church. In 1968, the name of the church was changed to First United Methodist Church of Florala due to its connection with the newly formed United Methodist Church.
2023
In January 2023, the church board voted to withdraw its affiliation with the United Methodist Church due to differences in theology, belief, and leadership. The church immediately joined the newly formed Global Methodist Church and changed its name back to Florala Methodist Church. In 2024, the church building received a much-needed renovation to include brand new stain glass windows, carpeting, an enlarged fellowship room and kitchen, new exterior color, and an updated sound and lighting system.