People from First United Methodist Church San Diego rose to the challenge of temporarily hosting some of their Ukrainian refugees who had fled their war-torn towns in Ukraine.

For one Holy Week, it was both a heartbreaking and an inspirational ministry. They learned about people's lives, developed relationships, served with dedication, and were abundantly rewarded.

According to the church’s events, a celebration of those who served, testimonies from those who were served, and a call to action for those who were unable to serve this time around will take place at their worship service on May 15 at 11 a.m.

Individuals responded quickly to God's call to aid Ukrainian refugees and formed lasting connections with the people with whom they came into contact.

The church encourages people to write down their stories in 200 words or less so that they can share them on Sunday, May 15, at the celebration at the First United Methodist Church in San Diego.

After the celebration, the church will also hold a Picnic Plaza on the same day, where they will provide cake and frozen yogurt to the Ukrainian families in order to commemorate the ministry's accomplishment. 

They will also have live music, fun games, tables organized by interest, a box lunch from Corner Bakery, and, most importantly, new friendships.

About First United Methodist Church San Diego

Each member of First United Methodist Church San Diego is an integral part of the whole since they are an active member of the church community. They are dedicated to assisting each member in reaching their best potential in Christ.

According to the church’s mission and vision statement, “First Church embraces as its mission the stated mission of the United Methodist Church: “to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world."

First Methodist Church can be defined as a movement of Spirit-led individuals who are developing in the grace of God while also reaching out in the love of Jesus Christ.

The church also welcomes all persons who are seeking God's love, regardless of their ability, age, race, color, economic circumstance, ethnic background, family configuration, gender, nationality, or sexual orientation, and does not discriminate against them.

They make a commitment to seek out the presence of Christ in all people, to work for justice and peace among all people, and to uphold the dignity of every human being.

Church’s History

Methodist prayer gathering was held on the second floor of the U.S. Army barracks located near present-day Seaport Village on Feb. 6, 1869.

Arrangements for the meeting were made by Mrs. Case, an elderly San Diego resident who recently relocated to the city. At $200, the new congregation purchased two properties on the northeast corner of Broadway and Fourth Avenue, across from Horton Plaza.

Located at 1984 Sunset Cliffs Blvd. in Ocean Beach, the Point Loma United Methodist Church joined with First United Methodist Church in 2017.