The Asbury First United Methodist Church finds its earliest roots in 1820. Today it is a spiritual home for over 2,000 and has the impressive architecture to match. The building has a history similar to the trials and tribulations of many churches, marked by periods of waxing and waning.
The building of the Erie Canal and Rochester’s expansion drove growth while occasional troubles of fire and debt created setbacks. Today, join other visitors in this impressive church named for the reconciliation between Rochester’s Methodist parishes in 1933.
Approach the church from the street and admire the impeccably manicured lawns that spread out on either side of its tall, thin front spire. Built in 1955, the stone church harks back to an earlier period of European architecture with a distinctly modern and American twist, recalling the great industrial heritage of the area. Linger a bit on the grass or go inside, where vaulted ceilings with impressive wooden beams lend the whole space a contemplative atmosphere.
Go back outside and walk down East Avenue, noticing how the stained-glass windows, impressive on the inside, are even beautiful from the exterior. Pause in front of the first building, built in the 19th-century Tudor revival style.
Continue on to the Wilson Soule House. Once George Eastman’s childhood home, the building is a Richardsonian Romanesque masterpiece.
Wander to the George Eastman Museum or return to the church for more quiet contemplation.
Find the Asbury First United Methodist Church in eastern Rochester, next to the George Eastman Museum and a pleasant 20-minute walk from Cobb’s Hill Park. Reach it in 30 minutes by bus from Rochester’s main train and bus terminal or in a 20-minute drive from the Greater Rochester International Airport. Drive from the University of Rochester campus in 10 minutes. Free parking is available in an on-site lot.
Regular Sunday services are held twice a day during the summer and three times daily during the school year. Other event times vary, so check online. Visitors are welcome during regular Sunday services as well as other events.
