Grace in the City: A Legacy of Faith and Service
Since 1857, Christ United Methodist Church has been a beacon of faith, service, and community in downtown Rochester, Minnesota. Our story is one of deep roots and forward momentum—always seeking to embody God’s grace in the city and beyond.
A History of Commitment and Transformation
From humble beginnings in a log cabin, our journey began in 1856 when Rev. Joshua Rogers organized a Sunday school class of 27 students. A year later, the Rochester Methodist Episcopal Church was officially established, and by 1858, the first chapel was built. Over time, the congregation continued to grow, facing challenges such as the devastating tornado of 1883, which destroyed the church building. Yet, with the generous support of Methodists near and far, a new church was built.
As Rochester expanded, so did our mission. In the 1950s, we made a bold decision to relocate in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic for the construction of Rochester Methodist Hospital. Though we moved, we chose to remain in the heart of the city, ensuring that our church would continue to serve residents, visitors, and the many who come to Rochester for healing and renewal.
The current church building at Fourth Street and Fifth Avenue SW was dedicated in 1958, marking a new era of ministry in downtown Rochester. In 1968, following the uniting of the Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Brethren Church, our congregation chose the name Christ United Methodist Church to distinguish itself among Rochester’s four United Methodist congregations at the time. A major addition in 1989 further expanded our capacity for ministry, adding worship and community spaces, a commons area, additional classrooms, and meeting rooms.
Today, CUMC has grown into a vibrant, multi-generational congregation committed to making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Our historic connection to the Mayo Clinic and our deep investment in social justice have shaped our identity as a church that not only worships together but also works together for the common good. Throughout our story, we have embraced growth, rebuilt from adversity, and continually responded to the evolving needs of our community.
A Church that Serves
Our commitment to ministry goes far beyond our walls and Sunday worship. Christ UMC has long been a leader in missions and outreach—feeding the hungry, welcoming the stranger, and advocating for justice.
- Saturday Noon Meals has provided hospitality and food security since 1994.
- For over 40 years, youth and adults have served in mission through the Appalachian Service Project.
- Thrift on Fifth, our thrift store, fosters community, provides affordable clothing with dignity, and reduces waste by redirecting items from landfills.
- In 2018, we established Thrive Child Care and Family Resource Center to address the need for affordable, high-quality childcare.
- In 2021, we partnered with Three Rivers Restorative Justice to support the development of restorative practices in Rochester and Olmsted County.
A Place for All
As a Reconciling Congregation, we affirm that God’s love extends to all people. We welcome and celebrate diversity, striving to be a church where everyone—regardless of background, race, ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation—can find a home, experience God’s grace, and grow in faith.
A Place of Worship and Community
Christ UMC is known for its Good Shepherd stained glass window, a centerpiece of our sanctuary, as well as our sixty-four-rank Robert Sipe organ, which continues to be shared with the community through summer concerts. Music and the arts have long played a vital role in our ministry, from choirs and handbells to dramatic performances.
A Vision for the Future
Today, as our city grows and changes, Christ UMC remains committed to being Grace in the City—a church that welcomes all, serves with compassion, and seeks to transform lives through the love of Christ. Whether you are looking for a place to worship, a way to serve, or a community to call home, you are welcome here.
No matter where you are on your faith journey, you are welcome here. We invite you to be part of our story—one rooted in history but always moving forward in grace.