Metropolitan United Methodist Church - (757) 787-8373

A Church

African American Congregation

Metropolitan was founded in 1870. The old church was built in 1889 under the administration of Rev. Isiah Johnson. The deed to the land refers to the church as " Johnson's Metropolitan", and thus preserves the name of this pioneer. In an attempt to determine why the name, "Metropolitan" was chosen a renowned Eastern Shore historian suggests that the meaning "for all people" was intended. The original building of the church was improved in 1881. This structure was replaced altogether by the present structure in 1899. Just prior to the turn of the century a parsonage was located and purchased. The turn of the century brought prosperity and hope. In 1910 the church was able to purchase a new organ, build a church library and a new parsonage located right across the street. In 1914 The Leemont charge was one of the strongest and largest member charges in the conference.
Metropolitan Church has been the scene of many firsts! In 1975 Albert Gingrich became the first white pastor to serve this church. Rev. McCray, a student at Wesley Theological Seminary, served as co-pastor with the responsibility of preaching and evangelism. During this period the orginal parsonage was replaced. In 1988 our first female pastor was appointed to our charge. Rev. Jean Page led the congregation in building a fellowship hall from October 1988 until its completion on April 7th, 1989! Metropolitan is a place of growth; from our past to our future growth is taking place! Come, Connect and Grow in Christ!

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