About Grace Church
Our Beliefs
Our Ministries
Our Beliefs
We are the church with a love for God and a heart for mission.
In all we do, we choose to follow the example of Christ, reaching out to all people with love and grace of God through worship, Bible study, mission outreach, prayer, and fellowship--so that all nations may become disciples of Jesus Christ.
Our Mission
Our Ministries
Our Beliefs
We envision a world where everyone feels loved, valued, and accepted. We strive to create a community where people can come together to worship, learn, and grow in their faith.
Our Ministries
Our Ministries
Our Ministries
We believe in taking our faith beyond the walls of our church and into the world. We are involved in a variety of local and global outreach programs, from feeding the hungry to supporting missionaries around the world.
Our Community
Our Ministries
Our Ministries
We are a diverse and welcoming community of believers who come from all walks of life. Whether you are young or old, single or married, or have a different background, we invite you to join us in worship and fellowship.
Our History
Grace United Methodist Church has a rich history as one of the oldest churches in Emporia, KS. It began in 1880 when it was organized as the Mission Railroad Sunday School to minister to the men of the railroad. By 1882 it was moved to 110 West Street and became known as the West Street Methodist Episcopal Sunday School of Emporia. In 1885 Grace Methodist Episcopal Church was chartered.
Historical Timeline
- 1888: A new church building was constructed at 2 Neosho Street, the church’s present location.
- 1925: A spring fire destroyed the church. While rebuilding, worship services were held in a wooden tabernacle on First Avenue between Congress and State Streets, and Sunday School met at Maynard School.
- December 12, 1926: The rebuilt Grace Church was dedicated, serving as a community gathering place with a recreation center, branch city library, and gymnasium.
- Following decades: The sanctuary was remodeled, a kitchen added, and the gymnasium converted into classrooms and what is now Memorial Hall.
- 1968: The Methodist conference united, and the church became Grace United Methodist Church.
- 1983–2008: Major updates included installing an elevator, constructing the tower, and adding new offices, restrooms, a nursery, and a parlor.
We are proud of the rich history of our church and its contribution to Emporia and our local neighborhood. We continue to strive to provide services to those around us through mission and the love of Jesus Christ.
Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.
Martin Luther King Jr.
