First United Methodist Church

A Town Landmark

First United Methodist Church continues to be part of St. Augustine’s cityscape for more than two centuries. Founded in 1825 by Reverend Daniel McDaniel, the congregation originally gathered in three different locations before moving to its permanent home on King Street in 1911. The current church sits just steps from the Lightner Museum and Flagler College—right in the heart of Historic Downtown.

Fun Fact: Locals lovingly refer to First United as "the pumpkin church" because every October the church grounds are filled with pumpkins for the community to purchase in celebration of the season.

History

Since its founding, the church has grown alongside the city. Additions over the years include Sunday school buildings, a parsonage, and a youth house. Today, the property serves as a welcoming space not only for worship but also for visiting mission groups and community outreach programs. With its downtown location and storied past, the church remains a fixture in the city’s living history.

Visitor Information

• Address: 118 King Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084
• Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• Sunday Services:
  • 10:00 a.m. in person (Streaming live on Facebook and YouTube)

Weddings

First United Methodist Church offers its sanctuary for wedding ceremonies, including both traditional and destination weddings. Couples do not need to be members of the church to marry here, but all weddings must be approved and scheduled in advance. The sanctuary seats approximately 350 guests, and ceremonies may be held on Friday evenings or Saturdays.

Couples are required to meet with the officiating pastor and complete marriage counseling before the ceremony. Wedding packages typically include use of the sanctuary, rehearsal time, an organist or pianist, a church wedding coordinator, and custodial services. While the interior provides a beautiful backdrop, decor, and photography guidelines are in place to help preserve the space. The church does not offer on-site reception facilities.

Explore More of the Oldest City

First United Methodist Church is one of many Historic Churches in St. Augustine that helped shape the story of the nation's oldest city. As you explore, take time to visit more Historic Sites.