Welcome! We’re glad you’re here.
“We are touching lives, the Gospel is being preached and we are making a difference.” – Rev. David Hart, III
Our Mission
Sherman Avenue United Methodist Church, a multicultural community of faith, is called to make disciples of all people to the glory of God and service of Christ
Our Vision
To share God’s love and nurture all people to be disciples/followers of Jesus Christ
Background
Sherman United Methodist Church is part of the First United Methodist Church. The United Methodist Church (UMC) is founded on a Wesleyan theology of grace, anchored in Scripture, and based in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the continuing movement of the Holy Spirit.
These are the core themes and values of the UMC:
- Discipleship: We share God’s love
- Belonging and Inclusion: We open our hearts, minds, and doors to all people.
- Influence, Connection and Impact in the World: Helping our neighbors, near and far, is the embodiment of faith in action.
- Experience of God through the UMC: We cherish our deepening relationship with God.
Sherman Church was founded in the fall of 1953. A full church program began in Reverend David Johnson’s home at 1949 Vahlen Avenue. There were about 20 families and 49 in the Sunday school. Already outgrowing its facilities, the first Christmas program was in the cafeteria of the Forsberg Paper Box Company.
During 1954, building plans were drawn up and a bid for the first unit was accepted. Ground breaking ceremonies were Sunday, March 20, 1955, with construction beginning the next day. Fellowship Hall was ready for its first service on September 4. Well, almost ready – planks laid on boxes of ceiling tile served as pews!
On May 27, 1958, construction began on the parsonage for a full-time pastor, who was to be Reverend Eldon Daniel. He moved in that summer and served the rapidly expanding church and growing community until 1963. Reverend Carl Fox was next appointed to serve the congregation. A need for a sanctuary seemed apparent, and the new addition was completed in the spring of 1964.
Over the decades, Sherman Church has been a cornerstone on Madison’s northside, providing care, community and compassion for those seeking healing, hope and the Holy Spirit. Reverend David Hart, III has served as pastor since June 2016.
Sherman Church celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2023. The Church has been a welcoming place for members to showcase their musical talents, including a praise team, and those who sing and play a variety of musical instruments (guitar, organ/piano, drums, saxophone, clarinet, violin and more). Professional music maker, DJ Steel, regularly drops the beat to amplify the Word of the Lord.