Church History

Located in the scenic hills of the Western Reserve, the Willoughby Hills United Methodist Church has a proud history of service and dedication to the local community as well as to worldwide missions.

The original Church was formed in the 1950’s by a concerned group of local people in a small farming community known then as Willoughby Township. Historically, this was believed to be not only the first Methodist Church but also the first church ever to serve that immediate community. As such, it grew rapidly, and a strong fellowship began among the members. In 1958 the original church building was built by the members on five acres of land. Some years later, a split level parsonage was built at another location.

The informal, congenial feeling of that original farm community can still be felt among the members today. Over the years the community has changed. The township has become a city. The old farms have been converted to residential developments. The country roads have given way to sprawling freeways, shopping malls and apartments.

In 1997 the decision was made to reorient and expand the church building. A capital campaign was launched in 1998 and ground was broken in June of 2001 to build the new sanctuary. On October 20, 2002 the dedication of the new sanctuary was held at 11:00 a.m., and we continue to worship in this sanctuary.