St. Paul United Methodist Church will celebrate its 170th Church Anniversary on October 17, marking nearly two centuries of faith, perseverance, worship, and service in the Fayette community.

The anniversary celebration will be held at St. Paul United Methodist Church, located at 300 East Davis Street in Fayette, starting at 1 p.m., followed by dinner and fellowship at 2:30 p.m. The church invites members, former members, friends, families, and members of the surrounding community to join in celebrating this historic occasion. Rev. Katina Colon of Fifth Street Christian Church in Columbia will be the guest speaker.

St. Paul’s history dates to 1856, when a Methodist congregation began worshiping at Davis and Mulberry Streets on land donated by John Ewin. The wooden-frame church was dedicated on September 21, 1856. Records indicate that both Black and white Methodists worshiped there before the Civil War. After the Civil War, the congregation became predominantly Black and continued for a time as Burton’s Chapel.

When the wood-frame church was destroyed by fire in 1905, members and friends worked together to quarry and haul stones for a new church. The magnificent Old Rock Church opened in 1908 under Rev. W.J. DeBoe. The historic structure became a landmark before being demolished in 1948 because of structural problems. The current sanctuary was completed in 1948, with building additions and improvements made in subsequent years.

From its earliest days, St. Paul served as much more than a place of worship. Its legacy over the years has contributed to education, music, celebrations, community outreach, and support for local youth. These ministries and activities reflect a longstanding commitment to strengthening individuals and families and becoming an important part of the social and cultural fabric of the community.

More than 50 pastors have served the congregation and community throughout its history, providing spiritual leadership and guidance through generations of change. Today, the church continues that tradition under the leadership of Rev. Fatima Garikayi.

The congregation invites the Fayette community to join the celebration of 170 years of faith, perseverance, service, and hope.