Recently, Leonia United Methodist Church (LUMC) joyfully celebrated its 135th anniversary, marking more than a century of faith, service, and community impact. With the theme “135 Years of Making a Difference,” the congregation spent the year honoring its rich history, celebrating God’s faithfulness today, and looking ahead with hope to the future.
Honoring 135 Years of History
The Leonia United Methodist Church originated in February of 1890 as cottage prayer meetings in the Old Lyceum Hall on Central Avenue, which is now Ft. Lee Road. A month later, on March 28, 1890, the church was formally incorporated with the election of a presiding elder and five trustees. The first pastor began
his duties in April 1890, and the First Quarterly Conference was held on June 11, 1891. Ground was broken for a church building on Harrison Street, and it was erected and dedicated on October 21, 1894. On July 1, 1912, the present site on Woodridge Place was purchased, and a new, larger building was dedicated on May 16, 1915.
One of the highlights of the Anniversary was an interview video featuring the story of Mrs. Dorothy Ault. The interview was conducted in her residence in Maine in the summer of 2025 by Rev. Emmanuel and Dr. Sun. Mrs. Dorothy is 101 years old. She is the surviving spouse of the late Bishop James Ault. They served Leonia UMC from 1953 to 1958. The video was curated by their son, Dr. James Ault, who included clips of Bishop Ault. They both shared that the ministry at Leonia UMC was a turning point for all the work the bishop embarked on in global missions, education, and episcopacy.
As part of the celebration, the church organized a history exhibition under the leadership of church historian Gale Black. The exhibition featured a wide range of items—from old and recent church photos, church Bibles, choir gowns, and 100th-anniversary t-shirts to vintage fellowship chairs—offering church members and the community a meaningful glimpse into the church’s past. One of the long-time church members traveled from Whiting, NJ, to attend the service and brought his children’s choir stool to donate to the church’s history room.
Celebrating the Present
During the anniversary service, Leonia UMC honored eight lifelong members who have served the church for more than half a century. Their dedication, commitment, and love for the church have laid a strong foundation for future generations. Our honorees were: John Suter, Joel L. Groves, Ruth Elsinger, Robert Seyffarth, George Jarvis, Barbara Jarvis, Gayle Black, and Gwendolyn Ash.
The celebration of God’s faithfulness extended throughout the year through several meaningful initiatives. In March, the church held its first Women’s Sunday and launched the Herstory Scholarship. The inaugural recipient, Mrs. Rebeca Atsu, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education to better support both her church and its school in Ghana, where she serves as a pastor’s wife.
In July, Leonia UMC revived its Vacation Bible School (VBS). Thanks to many volunteers, the event created lasting memories for the children and all who participated. The Back-to-School Supply Drive held alongside VBS warmly welcomed families from the surrounding community.
These highlights are only a small portion of what God is doing in and through our church. The blessings are countless, and we give all glory to God.
Looking Ahead: Picking Up the Baton
Pastor Emmanuel preached a sermon titled “Pick Up the Baton” on Psalm 145:3-8 with emphasis on verse 4: “One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.” Pastor Emmanuel encouraged the congregation to pick up two sets of batons. The first is the Baton of Faith and Hope and the second is the Baton of Love and Compassion as we celebrate God’s goodness and faithfulness for 135 years. We are reminded to continue the legacy of faith by passing on love, compassion, and wonderful works of God from one generation to another.
On September 26, 2025, the church hosted its first International Peace Gala during the United Nations General Assembly and International Peace Day. The idea emerged from conversations between Rev. Emmanuel and Ambassador Sanon, expanding on the church’s long-standing tradition of observing International Peace Day on the church lawn and in the gym. The gala brought together diplomats, humanitarians, and global peacemakers. Guests visited the Peace Pole outside the church, joined peace prayers in the main sanctuary, and enjoyed a gala program featuring fashion shows, awards, and keynote presentations. The event was a remarkable success, a seed planted for future collaborations and initiatives now in development.
As a step toward our vision into the future, the church launched Renovation Worship, a vibrant monthly praise and worship service that began on September 21, 2025. This worship brings us back to the heart of true worship, inspiring us towards mission.
“This celebration is more than a milestone,” said Rev. Emmanuel. “It is a reminder of God’s faithfulness, the dedication of those who came before us, and the call to continue making a difference in our community and beyond.”
Leonia UMC looks forward to continuing its mission of service, compassion, and spiritual growth as it enters its next chapter.
To learn more about Leonia UMC, check them out at www.leonia.church.