St. Johns United Methodist Church

In the late 18th century, Francis Asbury and other pioneers of American Methodism traveled throughout this area bringing the message of their faith to the people. A local Methodist Society was organized at that time, first meeting in the homes of its members. In 1804 they purchased land on Chapel Branch and built a house of worship. The growth of Seaford and expanding size of the congregation resulted in the purchase of a lot on Front Street in 1818, and the construction of a new church known as “Bochim’s Meeting House.” This structure was used until 1860 when it was moved and replaced by a larger building. In 1870 it was formally renamed St. John’s Methodist Episcopal Church. The present site was purchased in 1889, and in 1898 the congregation completed a new church here. A major expansion and remodeling project was undertaken in 1933-34. In 1968 the congregation approved the building of a new sanctuary. The old church was removed and the present building was built and occupied in 1972. The sanctuary was formally dedicated in 1989.