Our Rich Methodist Heritage in the Adirondacks

Historic Johnsburg Methodist Church with bell tower, founded 1798, oldest Methodist church in Adirondack region Early Johnsburg Methodist Episcopal Church building, vintage black and white photograph from 1800s

Johnsburg Methodist Church

Founded 1798

In 1798, John Thurman met David Noble and persuaded him to visit his new colony in what is now called Johnsburg. David Noble became a convert to Methodism under the preaching of John Wesley in Ireland. The church was incorporated in 1838 and completed in 1843 with its distinctive bell tower.

Wevertown Methodist Church exterior view, white wooden church building with Gothic windows in New York Adirondacks Historic interior of Wevertown Methodist Church showing ornate chandelier, wooden pews, and traditional sanctuary layout from 1800s

Wevertown Methodist Church

Founded 1879

The Wevertown Methodist Episcopal Church was organized on July 28, 1879. The first Trustees elected were William Waddell, Phillip Moston and Daniel Loveland. The Church was built in 1879 and 1880, celebrating 100 years of service in 1979. The interior featured an elegant chandelier and wooden pews.

Current RWJ United Methodist Church building in Johnsburg NY, modern view of historic Adirondack church Methodist church sanctuary interior with cross, altar, and wooden pews for Sunday worship services

Riparius Methodist Church

Founded circa 1900

Also known as "Riverside", early residents of this area had to travel to Wevertown, Johnsburg or Chester to attend church. Eventually their needs were recognized and the church was organized by Rev. Leonard A. Bard around 1900, with the building dedicated on March 7, 1912. Today our congregations worship together, maintaining the sacred traditions of our Methodist heritage.

Today

Our three historic Methodist communities have joined together as the RWJ United Methodist Church, continuing our rich tradition of faith, fellowship, and service in the Adirondack region. Under the pastoral leadership of Pastor Arnold Stevens, we maintain our commitment to Christian worship and community outreach.

Christ the Good Shepherd oil painting by Rev. Anton Beza in RWJ United Methodist Church sanctuary, 10x12 foot religious artwork depicting Jesus as shepherd in Adirondack Mountains setting

"I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills"

Christ the Good Shepherd

This magnificent 10 x 12 foot oil painting graces our sanctuary, created by Rev. Anton Beza during the early days of World War II. The artwork depicts Christ as the Good Shepherd in a pastoral Adirondack setting, perfectly capturing our church's connection to both faith and the natural beauty of our mountain region.

The painting features Christ with His flock against the backdrop of rolling green hills, with the biblical inscription "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills" - a verse that resonates deeply with our congregation surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains.

Our Faith Community Today

We continue our tradition of community service, fellowship dinners, and providing spiritual guidance to residents and visitors in the Adirondack region. Our three historic Methodist communities have united as one congregation, carrying forward over two centuries of faithful service and Christian witness.