A Home for Everyone
Rooted in West Lafayette. Growing with Our Community.
First United Methodist Church has called West Lafayette home for more than 150 years. Throughout that history, our buildings and gathering places have changed, but our purpose has remained rooted in faith, community, and a commitment to serving our neighbors.
Methodist gatherings began on the west side of the Wabash River by the mid-1800s, first in private homes and later in a local school building and wood shop. On April 6, 1869, a board of trustees was appointed to establish a new Methodist congregation, formally beginning the community that would become First United Methodist Church West Lafayette.
The congregation’s first church was built at Columbia and Littleton streets and dedicated in January 1870. As West Lafayette grew, so did First Church. In 1898, the congregation moved into a larger church at Chauncey and South streets, near the growing Purdue University community.
Growing Alongside Purdue and West Lafayette
Throughout the 20th century, First Church became increasingly connected to the life of West Lafayette and Purdue University, welcoming students, families, longtime residents, newcomers, and people finding their way into the community. A historical study described First Church as a congregation that “ministers… to the university community,” reflecting a relationship with Purdue that continues today.
As the congregation and community changed, First Church adapted its physical home to support worship, education, fellowship, and service. The Chauncey Avenue church was expanded and renovated several times, including a major rebuilding project completed in 1968.
By the end of the 20th century, changing needs led First Church to consider another move. Through the generosity of a church member, 22 acres of land west of Purdue became available at 1700 Mitch Daniels Boulevard, formerly State Road 26 West. There, First Church established the campus we call home today, creating new space for worship, education, fellowship, outreach, and community gatherings.
Renewing Our Home
In 2025, First Church once again invested in its home with significant renovations to the sanctuary and Activity Center. Improvements included new carpeting, audio and visual upgrades, a hearing loop system, and other updates designed to make these spaces more welcoming, accessible, beautiful, and functional.
Today, our campus is home not only to Sunday worship but also to ministries, classes, gatherings, service opportunities, community partnerships, and countless moments of connection throughout the week.
Our home has changed many times since a small group of Methodists began gathering on the west side of the Wabash River. More than 150 years later, First Church remains rooted in West Lafayette, connected to Purdue, and committed to being a welcoming home for our community and for generations yet to come.
Faith, Service, and Action in Our Community
Serving God’s people, in our community and beyond is at the heart of First Church’s core values. Our service programs contribute to solving local issues and global challenges. Join us in making a difference by exploring ways you can serve in our community below.
Food Security
First Church supports several organizations working to overcome food insecurity and support local families.