A Brief History of Del Ray United Methodist Church
Written by Robert Baber Jr.
Our church had its beginning in the home of one of its founding members, on the corner of Leslie and Windsor Avenues. It was the residence of Isaac D. Arnold and the year was 1893. The worship leader for that first service was Dr. Harry Cantor of Mount Vernon Place Methodist Church in Washington, D.C. During the Christmas of 1893, lots were donated by the Harmon Wood Reality Company. A small-framed building was erected on the 100 block of East Windsor Avenue. Even though the building was not yet completed, a Christmas service was held there, and later in the summer of 1894 the church was formally dedicated.
In 1905, the Ladies Aid Society was formed by nine members of the church, and this group grew over the years to become what is now known as the United Methodist Women.
As the membership grew, a wing was added in the rear, giving the church additional space for the church school. Then in 1916, the building was widened and a basement and kitchen were built. Over the years it has held many dinners and events. The social hall later was named after one of its prominent members and today is known as the Wallace B. Lunceford Social Hall.
Construction began in 1923 on a lot at 108 East Windsor Avenue the church parsonage was built just in time for Rev. J. Raymond Wood and his bride, Naomi Kidwell Wood, to begin their first year together. In March of 1942, ground was broken for the first section of the new building. Also in 1942, we saw the consecration of the social hall at the morning service. The cornerstone of the new church was laid later that same afternoon. During World War II, construction activities were delayed, and our present sanctuary was not completed until 1952. Special services in May of that year consecrated our present sanctuary and saw a dedication of our Moller Artiste Pipe Organ.
The educational building was completed in 1962. This building required the purchase of an additional property on East Custis Avenue. On April 26, 1964, a special service of dedication was held for the stained glass window given in honor of the Varney and Gary families. In October of 1977, the church congregation celebrated a note burning, honoring the faithful completion of the financial responsibilities for the entire facility.
An addition was made to the parsonage in October 1982, which consisted of a large family room with a fireplace, a bath and bedroom on the ground level, along with a deck and porch. Construction of the elevator begun in 1986 and was dedicated in May of 1987 in memory of a prominent church member, Raymond Deeters. Later in 2002, a need to get members to state and local activities prompted the purchase of a church van.
On October 5, 2003, a special service of rededication was held for the new stained glass window at the entrance of the church. This new window was a gracious gift to the church from the Shepherdson family.
Del Ray United Methodist Church has been serving its congregation and the local community since September of 1893. With Gods help, it will grow and continue its vital mission for the Del Ray community.