Asbury First Methodist Church, Rochester

Asbury First United Methodist Church is located on East Avenue in Rochester. It traces its heritage to several Rochester congregations dating back to the 1820s. In its current form, it is the result of a 1934 merger of First Church and Asbury Methodist Episcopal Church. With a congregation of 2,300 people, it is the largest United Methodist church in the Rochester area.

Asbury First presents an annual concert series featuring regional musicians and national touring groups. The Asbury First Dining and Caring Center serves meals to the homeless, the Asbury First Storehouse provides donated clothing, kitchenware, and bedding. The church also supports a Grocery Bag Ministry, Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network, School 41 tutoring and outreach, and projects in India, Nicaragua, and Kenya.

The present church building was constructed in 1953-55 in the American Gothic style. The education wing was added in 1961. The stained glass windows were designed by George Haushalter. The construction and style owes much to the dedication of Dr. Weldon Crossland, minister for 28 years. Two mansions are also part of the campus. 1050 East Ave is considered one of the most important 19th century houses surviving in Rochester; it was built in 1890. The building now houses the church’s administrative offices.