Our history

EUMC is the oldest church in Rockdale County. We can trace our history back to 1818 when a group of people came to a farm owned by John Hodges, built a brush arbor for shade and formed a church. The site was chosen because of the grove and spring located on the property providing plenty of fresh water for everyone including the animals. The people lived in their covered wagons and tents. This began the annual camp meetings that went on for 10 years. 

In 1828, a log meeting house was built and a church was organized. EUMC was once part of the Yellow River Circuit with 27 other churches. Whatever day the preacher was available was when services were held; however, Sunday school was held every Sunday, with or without a preacher. The original land was purchased in 1831 for $2 and then an additional 3 acres for $12. In 1835, Milton Waldrop and his families moved next EUMC and donated land for the cemetery. His two sons  who were killed in the Civil War of 1862, are buried in our cemetery. On October 18, 1870, Rockdale County was formed from Henry and Newton counties making Ebenezer 52 years older than the county.

 In 1872, the Chapel, located on the lower end of the property, was built and is still in use today. The original chapel had two entrance doors and partition down the center; men/boys on the left side and women/girls on the right side. During the 1950’s the partition was removed and the two entrance doors were moved to the center. 

In the history of EUMC, there have been many visitors. One notable visitor was sometime in the 1970’s when Penny Goss’ goat came down the aisle during the service. It is uncertain as to whether the goat was baptized that day.

In 1982, EUMC became a full time church. The present sanctuary, Education Building and Activity Center were all added to the campus in the 1990’s. As with all faith communities, Ebenezer is always evolving to meet the needs of the community around us and the needs of our congregation. What remains the same is the spirit that truly defines Ebenezer United Methodist Church: a church which makes and equips Christian disciples who serve the world like Christ, gather together to worship our God, grow with the Spirit, and connect with others.