Ponchatoula First United Methodist Church
History
News
Although circuit riders passed through the area on occasion, Methodism didn't take root in Ponchatoula until Mr. William Akers donated a piece of land and had a sanctuary constructed. Mr. Akers had asked the Mississippi Conference for a minister in 1892. Shortly after the church was dedicated (on December 3, 1893), Rev. W. H. Currie was appointed as Ponchatoula's first pastor. The first Sunday school was also organized that year.
After holding several revivals, Rev. Currie organized a church of about 50
members. He also built his own home (113 South Third St.) during his stay
here. In 1907, the original church was taken down and a two story
building was constructed. In 1947, an educational building, (Abels
Memorial Building) was constructed just east of the sanctuary.
The 2 story annex was demolished in 1956. Groundbreaking for new church
facilities was held on September 11, 1957. A fellowship hall, kitchen,
library, restrooms, and classrooms were first construction. Construction
on the sanctuary was completed while Rev. Eldred Blakely was pastor. The
first service in the new sanctuary was held on September 6, 1959.
The first parsonage was built by Mrs. J. R. Abels on South Fifth Street in
1940. A new parsonage was constructed in 1964-65. The current parsonage
was built in 1978.
The Historical Register is a compilation of information on every
United Methodist Church in the Louisiana
Annual Conference.