For more than a century, Saint Peter United Methodist Church has stood as a faithful witness in Madison, Alabama. Our story reflects perseverance, community sacrifice, and a deep commitment to worship and service.

Early Beginnings

St. Peter Methodist Episcopal Church

Saint Peter was founded during the closing years of the 19th century as St. Peter Methodist Episcopal Church.

The property where the church now stands was purchased on June 10, 1899. The deed was officially recorded at the Madison County Courthouse in Huntsville, Alabama on October 14, 1905.

Before 1923, a frame structure served as the congregation’s place of worship. Over time, the building became unsafe. It was torn down, and the lumber was carefully stacked and later used to build a parsonage for the pastor and family.

While the new sanctuary was under construction, services were temporarily held at the Sisters and Brothers of Honor Lodge Hall on Pension Row.

A Church Built by Faith and Sacrifice

To fund the construction of a new church building, members raised money through suppers, bake sales, and quilt sales. Their efforts were supported by a $300 contribution from the Board of Mission and Church Extension of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Construction of the new sanctuary began in late 1924 and was completed in 1925. This building became a lasting symbol of the congregation’s unity and determination.

In 1939, following denominational reunification, the name Methodist Episcopal was dropped. Later, in 1968, when the Evangelical United Brethren united with the Methodist Church, the congregation became known as Saint Peter United Methodist Church.

Building for the Future

By the 1960s, improvements were needed once again. The original coal-burning heater had been replaced by gas, but the building was not well insulated. After much discussion, the church formed a building fund committee and established clear guidelines.

Funds designated for the new building would be used solely for that purpose, except in the case of a major emergency. The congregation remained faithful to this commitment.

Groundbreaking for the new church facility took place in the late summer of 1989. The Consecration Service was held that fall, marking a new chapter in the life of the church.

The mortgage was fully paid off in 1995. On December 15, 1996, the congregation celebrated with a Mortgage Burning Service, giving thanks for God’s provision.

Additional land was donated in 1998 by descendants of Sue Della and Ellis Sanders. Over time, more property was purchased and paid for, expanding the church’s presence in Madison.

Leadership Through the Years

Saint Peter United Methodist Church has been shaped by faithful pastoral leadership for generations.

In 1991, Rev. Deborah Timmons became the church’s first female pastor. She introduced Wednesday night Bible classes, established a church library, and created a dedicated children’s time during worship. Her encouraging words, “Be a risk taker and watch God move,” inspired the congregation to grow in faith and action.

Pastors who followed continued strengthening both the spiritual and physical foundations of the church, including placing the cornerstone, paving the parking lot, purchasing pews, and eliminating debt.

Recent Pastors
  • Rev. Danny Jefferson – 2010 to Present
  • Rev. Roderick Stallworth – 2007
  • Rev. Patsy Glover – 2003
  • Rev. Marcell Johnson – 2002
  • Rev. Allen Sanders Jr. – 1999
  • Rev. Paul Hillard Jr. – 1992
  • Rev. Deborah Timmons – 1991
  • Rev. L. L. Magee – 1989
  • Rev. James F. Ayers – 1979
  • Rev. Riley Slaughter – 1958
  • Rev. Elmer C. Binford – 1950

Records show pastoral leadership dating back to at least 1912, demonstrating a long and steady legacy of ministry in Madison, Alabama.