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Etna Green United Methodist Church

131 West Broadway
574-858-9469

Between 1839 and 1865, the vast territory including all of what is now known as Kosciusko County, Indiana, was one large mission field. Tradition has it that the noted Circuit Rider, Rev. Peter Cartwright, peached in this area on his way to Illinois, and the Etna Green Episcopal Methodist Church was a part of that mission. In 1865, a class formed meeting in homes. The first pastor was Rev. M. Wayman and the church was placed on the Bourbon Circuit until 1886. In 1914, the construction began on the present structure. A disastrous fire in town postponed work until 1915, and the new church was dedicated February 6, 1916.

The church was decorated around two outstanding ideals. One, an inspirational setting, and two, the utility of the building. Besides the two decoration themes, the church adopted the following mission statement... "I can do all things through Christ who strengthened me."

The United Brethren Church was organized in 1855. The first church was erected in 1867, but it was destroyed by lightning in 1878. A new church was built and dedicated July 5, 1885. This church served the congregation until 1924 when a large brick structure was dedicated.

From 1968 until January 1, 1972, the two churches in Etna green were known as the East and West United Methodist Churches. A vote was taken on September 12, 1971, and effective January 1, 1972, the congregation known as the United Methodist Church of Etna Green was formed, to meet in the former West Church.