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Fordham United Methodist Church"A Beacon of Light in the Bronx and Beyond" Home

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A Visit from Bishop Jeremiah Park

Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012 (Picture Gallery)

2012 is the 160th Anniversary of Fordham Church and Pastor Leo W. Curry's 25th Anniversary

View the Press Release

Welcome
We are a multi-ethnic parish that has been part of the Bronx for generations. Founded in 1852, Fordham United Methodist Church is called to be a church where people grow spiritually, develop an essential Christian character, experience the transforming grace of God, deepen their relationship with God and become faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.

Worship Times

Children's Sunday School - 9:45 am

Adult Sunday School - 9:45am

Worship Service - 11:00 am

Communion is offered on the first and third Sundays of each month.

Upcoming Events:
Bishop Jeremiah J. Park inaugurates160th Anniversary Preaching SeriesSunday, January 8, 2012, 11 AMBAPTISM OF THE LORD SUNDAY"REMEMBER YOUR BAPTISM, AND BE THANKFUL."In honor of Fordham United Methodist Church's 160th anniversary year in 2012 and Rev. Leo W. Curry's 25th anniversary as pastor, Fordham UMC will have a special, year-long, Guest Preacher Series. The guest preachers, including brief biographies and scheduled dates and times are listed below. All of the guest preachers have a special connection to Rev. Curry and Fordham UMC is grateful that they have agreed to participate in this special series. Rev. Curry has know some of these preachers since his childhood in Philadelphia and his college days at Howard University in Washington, DC. Others are longstanding friends and colleagues from the New York Annual Conference (NYAC) of the United Methodist Church. Fordham UMC is honored and grateful to have our Bishop inaugurate this 160th anniversary celebration. All are invited to worship with us during this special year in the life and ministry of Fordham UMC: "A Beacon of Light int the Bronx and Beyond!" Fordham United Methodist Church 2012 Guest Preacher SeriesSunday, January 8, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Bishop Jeremiah J. Park (Baptism of the Lord Sunday). Bishop Park has served as the Episcopal leader of the New York Annual Conference since 2004. He and Rev. Curry have worked together over the years on many special projects, including speaking at the annual NYAC Black College Fund Luncheon. Sunday, January 15, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Randolph W. Nugent, Jr. (Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday Service). Rev. Nugent is the most recent former Executive General Secretary of The General Board of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church. Like Rev. Curry, Rev. Nugent is a linguist who speaks French, German and Spanish. They have worked together over the years on projects for Global Ministries and the NYAC.Sunday, February 19, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Gennifer B. Brooks (Black History Month Service). Rev. Brooks is currently a Professor of Homiletics at Garret Theological Seminary in Evanston, Ill. She has been a colleague of Rev. Curry's in the NYAC for over 20 years. Rev. Curry is featured in her forthcoming book titled Black United Methodists Preach (Abingdon Press 2012).Sunday, March 4, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Dale Irvin (Second Sunday in Lent). Rev. Irvin is President of the New York Theological Seminary where Rev. Curry received his Masters of Divinity Degree.Sunday, March 11, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Evelyn R. McDonald (Women's History Month and Women's Self-Denial Sunday). Rev. McDonald is currently the pastor of First United Church of Newburgh. She is one of Rev. Curry's former Seminarian assistants and, in that role, she gave some of her first sermons from the pulpit of Fordham UMC. During the March 11 service, Fordham UMC will also present its second annual Community Service Award to Sister Mary Alice Hannan, Executive Director of Part of the Solution (POTS), a Bronx based community service agency near Fordham Church which provides services to the indigent and homeless. Fordham UMC takes a special collection each month for the benefit of POTS.Sunday, April 8, 2012, 8 am Men's Easter Breakfast Service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Noel N. Chin (United Methodist Men's 8 am Easter Breakfast). Rev. Chin is currently pastor of the First United Methodist Church of Mt. Vernon, NY. He is the most former District Superintendent of the NYAC. He has been Rev. Curry's colleague for over 20 years. Breakfast will be served in Hackl Hall at 8:45 am following the special service. Please note that Rev. Curry will preach Fordham UMC's April 8, 11 am service for Easter Sunday.Sunday, April 22, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Fr. Darryl F. James (Earth Day). Rev. James is currently Priest-in-Charge of the historic Grace Episcopal Church, Jamaica, New York. Like Rev. Curry, Rev. James is a proud college graduate of Howard University. Sunday, May 13, 2012, 11 am service, Rev. Cecilia B. Loving (Mother's Day). Rev. Loving is the spiritual leader of SPIRITMUV Church based in Manhattan New York. She holds five academic degrees, including two from Rev. Curry's alma maters, Howard University and New York Theological Seminary. A practicing lawyer and graduate of New York University School of Law, Rev. Loving's publications include the following books: Prayers for Those Standing on the Edge of Greatness (Seraphina Press 2009) and God is a Brown Girl Too (Myrtle Tree Press 2011).Sunday, June 17, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Nathaniel T. Grady (Father's Day and Men's Day). Rev. Grady is currently the pastor of Saint Marks UMC in Manhattan. He has been a colleague of Rev. Curry's in the NYAC for over 25 years.Sunday, June 24, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Robert O. Simpson and Guest Liturgist, Dr. Addie J. Butler (25th Anniversary Service for Pastor Curry). Rev. Simpson is currently the pastor of Jane's UMC in Brooklyn, New York. He is Rev. Curry's college classmate, NYAC colleague and friend for over 40 years. Dr. Butler is retired a educational administrator now lives in Philadelphia, PA. She has known Rev. Curry since the 5th grade in Philadelphia. They attended the same schools from 5th grade though college. Sunday, September 16, 2012, 11 am service,Guest Preacher, Mr. Ernest L. Swiggett (Christian Education Sunday). Mr. Ernest L. Swiggett. Mr. Swiggett is the former Treasurer and Business Administrator for the NYAC. In that capacity, he has been a colleague of Rev. Curry's for 25 years.Friday, October 26, 2012, 7 pm Annual Anniversary Dinner in Hackl Hall. Guest Preacher, Rev. Ian B. Straker (160th Anniversary Dinner Celebration). Rev. Straker is currently adjunct professor of Church History at Virginia Union Seminary. He and Rev. Curry were ordained together in 1986.Sunday, October 28, 2012, 11 am service, Rev. Dr. William S. Shillady. He is currently Executive Director of the United Methodist City Society, New York City, where Rev. Curry serves as a member of the board of directors.Sunday, November 4, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. St. Clair A. Samuel (All Saints Sunday). , Rev. Samuel is currently the District Superintendent of the Metropolitan District of the NYAC. He is former pastor of Butler United Methodist Church, Bronx, New York. Sunday, November 11, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Cathy S. Gilliard (Women's Day). , Rev. Gilliard is currently pastor of Park Avenue UMC in Manhattan.. Rev. Curry was privileged to serve as her mentor during her early years in the NYAC.

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John Wesley and the early Methodists wanted people to experience Gods grace and to grow in their knowledge and love of God through disciplined Christian living. They placed primary emphasis on putting faith and love into action. This emphasis on what Wesley referred to as "practical divinity" has continued to be a hallmark of United Methodism today. We invite you to learn more about our rich theological heritage.Please join us for this Sunday's service.Children's Sunday School - 9:45 amAdult Sunday School - 9:45am Sunday Service - 11:00 amIn addition to regular our regular Sunday service of worship at 11 am, Fordham United Methodist Church offers special weekday worship services, in our sanctuary, on the following occasions. Christmas Eve service, 8pm (Friday, December 24, 2010) New Year's Eve service, 10:30pm (Friday, December 31, 2010) Ash Wednesday service, 7:30pm (Wednesday, March 9, 2011) Maundy-Thursday/Holy Thursday service, 7:30pm (Thursday, April 21, 2011) (Imposition of ashes) Good Friday service, 12pm - 3pm (Friday, April 22, 2011) Christmas Eve service, 8pm (Saturday, December 24, 2011) New Year's Eve service, 10:30pm (Saturday, December 31, 2011)

Sermons

Sermons

Listen

Mission

Mission

Recapitulaton of 2010Mission Statement: To Be a Beacon of Light in the Bronx and BeyondFordham United Methodist Church is called to be a church where people grow spiritually, develop and essential Christian character, experience the transforming grace of God, deepen their relationship with God and become faithful disciples of Jesus Christ in the church and the world.We live out our mission by offering a worship service with beautiful music, a thought provoking sermon and a compelling liturgy; by proclaiming the gospel, providing Christian education programs, strengthening our ministry to youth, supporting mission programs of our denomination and work in our community.May we keep this mission statement before us, as a constant reminder of our call to discipleship. We need to ask ourselves continualy; Do we want to grow spiritually as well as numerically? If our answer is Yes then we need to be vigilant, intentional and disciplined.A growing church is an inviting church, a welcoming church, a nurturing church.Christian education is for all ages; it is training in discipleship from cradle to grave.Let us celebrate and not take for granted Gods blessings since our last church conference.We celebrate our Worship and Evangelism Committee serving our Community Thanksgiving Dinner.We celebrate our Fordham Community Garden.We celebrate our 158th Anniversary Banquet.We celebrate our 158th Anniversary Service of Worship with Dr. John E. Carrington.We celebrate our United Methodist Women's International Festival.We celebrate our 9th anniversary performance of Part I of Handel's "Messiah" in Dec. 2009.We celebrate our first performance of Part II of Handel's "Messiah" in March 2010.We celebrate the ongoing excellence of our Music Ministry under the direction of Dr. John C. Banks and Mrs. Carmen Spencer, Chair of Music, Worship and Evangelism.We celebrate our Fordham at 4pm Concert series.We celebrate our festive Easter Sunday celebrations with our Men's group, including their early service and breakfast before the 11am Sunday worship service.We celebrate our well maintained church facility from which to do mission and ministry and our well maintained parsonage.We celebrate our United Methodist Women's full support of District and Conference obligations and varied ecumenical ministries. Our church frequently hosts UMW meetings.We celebrate, also, Fordam's support of District UMW meetings, Lay Speakers annual meetings and the District Training Workshops.We celebrate our PPR Committee's ongoing support of the recordings of our 11 am Sunday services.We celebrate our Christian Education ministry with children and youth. Their leadership of worship, under the tutelage of our Christian Education staff, on 5th Sundays, is heart warming and important for the development of our youth.We celebrate the participation of children and youth in almost every 11am Sunday worship service.We celebrate our increased commitment to Part of the Solution (POTS) for which we collect needed items and financial gifts every third Sunday of each month.We celebrate our new banner, display-announcement box and signage which beautifies our building and has already drawn passers by into our 11am Sunday service of worship.We celebrate our support of the Bronx Community Garden led by Mrs. Ena Nemley.We celebrate our participation in the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition Campaign led by Rev. Curry.We celebrate our member Ben Nelson's leadership as President of the United Methodist Men at the District level.We celebrate our participation with the Bronx 52nd Precinct Community Council led by Mrs. Ena Nemley and Rev. Curry.We celebrate our special New Year's Eve service.We celebrate our special Christmas Eve service.We celebrate our special Ash Wednesday service.We celebrate our special Maundy Thursday evening service.We celebrate our special Good Friday afternoon service.We celebrate our ongoing outreach via our updated website.We celebrate our invitational evangelism.Does it Transform the World into Christs Image?Goals:United Methodist men mentoring program for youth.A tithing church with a more even distribution of giving among the membership.Successful implementation of newly enacted Fordham Giving Guidelines.Look, listen, hear - spiritual life, evangelism and stewardship are inseparable.Invite, the most effective evangelism is one-on-one.

Outreach

Outreach
Fordham United Methodist Church's support of and involvement with the Bronx community is as old as the church. The first pastor of the church (Rev. Thomas Bainbridge) and several founding members of the congregation have Bronx streets named for them, reflecting the historical ties of Fordham Church to the Bronx community. Fordham's deep commitment to community outreach continues to this day. This support includes the following:Part of the Solution (POTS): POTS is a non-profit, Bronx based support organization that provides food and clothing to the needy. POTS' website (www.potsbronx.org) gives a complete description of their efforts. Fordham Church takes up a collection to support POTS on the third Sunday worship service of each month. Fordham's support includes donations of food, clothing and cash. The Community Gardens: The Community Gardens is affiliated with Operation Green Thumb and the Trust for Public Lands. Fordham's efforts to preserve public spaces for community use has been led for the past several years by Fordham member and Lay Leader Mrs. Ena Nemley. Rev. Curry is also a member of the Community Gardens. The preservation of green spaces in the Bronx benefits all who live here. The New York Times profiled Mrs. Nemley's efforts in an article on October 8, 2004 entitled "Bleak Landscapes, Green Produce: Poor Neighborhoods See Rise in Farmers' Markets" [Tim, put in a jump site to the article and I have a copy if you can't find it with the description given]The 52nd Police Precinct Community Council: Fordham works with this local community policing organization to address quality of life issues, crime deterrence and to foster greater cooperation between the police and the community. Since 1987 Rev. Leo W. Curry and members of the church have been involved with the Council. In 2007 Rev. Curry accepted an award from the Council in appreciation for his many years of service and dedication to the Council. The award was accompanied by a citation for Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson, New York State Senator.Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition: This not- for-profit community based organization addresses concerns of affordable housing, improved public schools (including the need for additional school buildings), immigration reform, the delivery of affordable health care services and general quality of life issues for the benefit of all residences of the Northwest Bronx. Rev. Leo W. Curry and Fordham Church has supported this organization since 1987. Rev. Curry and Fordham members recently participated in The Campaign for Kingsbridge Armory which resulted in defeating a proposal to construct a shopping mall of mega stores that would not have paid a living wage nor benefited the economic development of the community.PS 168: From1988 through 2010 FUMC provided a home for the Department of Education's Public School 168. This elementary school serves autistic children grades K - 3 who have learning disabilities and special needs. Thanksgiving Day Dinner for the Community: Since 2003 the members of Fordham Church have provided a nourishing meal on Thanksgiving Day for any and all members of the community who wish to partake.Safe Links: In 2010 Fordham agreed to provide support for Safe Link Wireless' efforts to provide free cell phones to community residences who are veterans and those on Medicaid, SSI, HEAP. This is a federally funded program which addresses the communication and safety needs of a this targeted population.Fordham's Music Ministry: Fordham's well regarded choir is the the cornerstone of our church's music ministry. For the past 10 years Fordham's choir has offered a performance of Handel's "Messiah" in our Bronx sanctuary with students and children attending free due to contributions for this purpose. The Fordham choir has performed sacred music in various locations throughout the New York Annual Conference (NYAC) including the Bronx, Brooklyn, White Plains and Long Island. Our musicians routinely perform at official events of the NYAC including the Annual Methodist Black College Fund Luncheon which supports 11 historically Black Methodist colleges and universities and African University in Zimbabwe. Community Service Award: In 2011 FUMC awarded its first annual community service award to Ms. Karen Washington for her tireless work on behalf of the community gardens of New York City. In 2012 Fordham will award its second annual community service award to Sister Mary Alice, Executive Director of POTS.

Music

Music
Please join us for our Fordham at 4pm Music Concert Series for 2011Sunday, Feb. 12, 2011, 4pm, Fordham at Four Music Concert for Black History Month in the sanctuary Sunday, May 15, 2011, 4pm, Fordham at Four Music Concert in the sanctuarySunday, June 26, 2011, 1pm, Pastor's Anniversary JAZZ reception following 11am worship service to be held in Hackl HallSunday, Oct. 23, 2011, 4pm, Fordham at Four Music Concert in the sanctuary, 159th Church Anniversary Celebration.

Listen

About the Music Program
Rev. Leo W. Curry, Pastor, Fordham U.M. Church, on the importance of Music Ministry: John Wesley, founder of the people called Methodists, said: "Theology is preached, SUNG and lived." Indeed. well prepared, sacred music is such a joyous gift from above to tell the Good News. At Fordham, our music ministry is a priority. Our soloists have performed at many of the major music venues in New York City and internationally including City Opera, the Metropolitan Opera and Merkin Concert Hall. From Sunday to Sunday, Fordham consistently presents a range of music for worship, from Spirituals to classical works. For the past 10 years our music worship has culminated in a Christmas performance of Handel's "Messiah" with Fordham's Choir, Soloist, Harpsichord, Organ and the Ensemble Sepia Orchestra under the leadership of our Director of Music, Dr. John Carlton Banks. At Fordham we believe that a vibrant Music Ministry helps us to be "A Beacon of Light in the Bronx and Beyond.

Events

Baptisms, Weddings & Funerals

Events
Join us for our Sunday at 4:00 P.M. concert series, Fordham at Four, featuring solos and ensembles from the Fordham Church Community.Upcoming Special EventsBishop Jeremiah J. Park inaugurates160th Anniversary Preaching SeriesSunday, January 8, 2012, 11 AMBAPTISM OF THE LORD SUNDAY"REMEMBER YOUR BAPTISM, AND BE THANKFUL."In honor of Fordham United Methodist Church's 160th anniversary year in 2012 and Rev. Leo W. Curry's 25th anniversary as pastor, Fordham UMC will have a special, year-long, Guest Preacher Series. The guest preachers, including brief biographies and scheduled dates and times are listed below. All of the guest preachers have a special connection to Rev. Curry and Fordham UMC is grateful that they have agreed to participate in this special series. Rev. Curry has know some of these preachers since his childhood in Philadelphia and his college days at Howard University in Washington, DC. Others are longstanding friends and colleagues from the New York Annual Conference (NYAC) of the United Methodist Church. Fordham UMC is honored and grateful to have our Bishop inaugurate this 160th anniversary celebration. All are invited to worship with us during this special year in the life and ministry of Fordham UMC: "A Beacon of Light int the Bronx and Beyond!" Fordham United Methodist Church 2012 Guest Preacher SeriesSunday, January 8, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Bishop Jeremiah J. Park (Baptism of the Lord Sunday). Bishop Park has served as the Episcopal leader of the New York Annual Conference since 2004. He and Rev. Curry have worked together over the years on many special projects, including speaking at the annual NYAC Black College Fund Luncheon. Sunday, January 15, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Randolph W. Nugent, Jr. (Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday Service). Rev. Nugent is the most recent former Executive General Secretary of The General Board of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church. Like Rev. Curry, Rev. Nugent is a linguist who speaks French, German and Spanish. They have worked together over the years on projects for Global Ministries and the NYAC.Sunday, February 19, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Gennifer B. Brooks (Black History Month Service). Rev. Brooks is currently a Professor of Homiletics at Garret Theological Seminary in Evanston, Ill. She has been a colleague of Rev. Curry's in the NYAC for over 20 years. Rev. Curry is featured in her forthcoming book titled Black United Methodists Preach (Abingdon Press 2012).Sunday, March 4, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Dale Irvin (Second Sunday in Lent). Rev. Irvin is President of the New York Theological Seminary where Rev. Curry received his Masters of Divinity Degree.Sunday, March 11, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Evelyn R. McDonald (Women's History Month and Women's Self-Denial Sunday). Rev. McDonald is currently the pastor of First United Church of Newburgh. She is one of Rev. Curry's former Seminarian assistants and, in that role, she gave some of her first sermons from the pulpit of Fordham UMC. During the March 11 service, Fordham UMC will also present its second annual Community Service Award to Sister Mary Alice Hannan, Executive Director of Part of the Solution (POTS), a Bronx based community service agency near Fordham Church which provides services to the indigent and homeless. Fordham UMC takes a special collection each month for the benefit of POTS.Sunday, April 8, 2012, 8 am Men's Easter Breakfast Service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Noel N. Chin (United Methodist Men's 8 am Easter Breakfast). Rev. Chin is currently pastor of the First United Methodist Church of Mt. Vernon, NY. He is the most former District Superintendent of the NYAC. He has been Rev. Curry's colleague for over 20 years. Breakfast will be served in Hackl Hall at 8:45 am following the special service. Please note that Rev. Curry will preach Fordham UMC's April 8, 11 am service for Easter Sunday.Sunday, April 22, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Fr. Darryl F. James (Earth Day). Rev. James is currently Priest-in-Charge of the historic Grace Episcopal Church, Jamaica, New York. Like Rev. Curry, Rev. James is a proud college graduate of Howard University. Sunday, May 13, 2012, 11 am service, Rev. Cecilia B. Loving (Mother's Day). Rev. Loving is the spiritual leader of SPIRITMUV Church based in Manhattan New York. She holds five academic degrees, including two from Rev. Curry's alma maters, Howard University and New York Theological Seminary. A practicing lawyer and graduate of New York University School of Law, Rev. Loving's publications include the following books: Prayers for Those Standing on the Edge of Greatness (Seraphina Press 2009) and God is a Brown Girl Too (Myrtle Tree Press 2011).Sunday, June 17, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Nathaniel T. Grady (Father's Day and Men's Day). Rev. Grady is currently the pastor of Saint Marks UMC in Manhattan. He has been a colleague of Rev. Curry's in the NYAC for over 25 years.Sunday, June 24, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Robert O. Simpson and Guest Liturgist, Dr. Addie J. Butler (25th Anniversary Service for Pastor Curry). Rev. Simpson is currently the pastor of Jane's UMC in Brooklyn, New York. He is Rev. Curry's college classmate, NYAC colleague and friend for over 40 years. Dr. Butler is retired a educational administrator now lives in Philadelphia, PA. She has known Rev. Curry since the 5th grade in Philadelphia. They attended the same schools from 5th grade though college. Sunday, September 16, 2012, 11 am service,Guest Preacher, Mr. Ernest L. Swiggett (Christian Education Sunday). Mr. Ernest L. Swiggett. Mr. Swiggett is the former Treasurer and Business Administrator for the NYAC. In that capacity, he has been a colleague of Rev. Curry's for 25 years.Friday, October 26, 2012, 7 pm Annual Anniversary Dinner in Hackl Hall. Guest Preacher, Rev. Ian B. Straker (160th Anniversary Dinner Celebration). Rev. Straker is currently adjunct professor of Church History at Virginia Union Seminary. He and Rev. Curry were ordained together in 1986.Sunday, October 28, 2012, 11 am service, Rev. Dr. William S. Shillady. He is currently Executive Director of the United Methodist City Society, New York City, where Rev. Curry serves as a member of the board of directors.Sunday, November 4, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. St. Clair A. Samuel (All Saints Sunday). , Rev. Samuel is currently the District Superintendent of the Metropolitan District of the NYAC. He is former pastor of Butler United Methodist Church, Bronx, New York. Sunday, November 11, 2012, 11 am service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Cathy S. Gilliard (Women's Day). , Rev. Gilliard is currently pastor of Park Avenue UMC in Manhattan.. Rev. Curry was privileged to serve as her mentor during her early years in the NYAC.
Please contact the church office at 718-367-9347 to inquire about Baptisms, Weddings or Funerals. Baptisms are performed during the second Sunday of each month. The suggested gift for Baptisms is $300. Baptisms should be scheduled at least four weeks in advance. Funerals are arranged in consultation with the Pastor. The suggested minimum donation is $1500 which meets the church's expenses for such sacred services. Weddings should be scheduled at least six months in advance. The minimum fee for a Wedding is $3000 and this includes: the use of the sanctuary for one rehearsal and the ceremony, as well as expenses associated with the Pastor, organist and custodian. Use of Hackl reception hall for a wedding reception is $2500 for four hours and includes use of the kitchen and two custodians. All arrangements for Baptisms, Funerals and Weddings can be made by contacting the church office.

Rental of Hackl Hall
Fordham U.M.C. has a 9500 square foot event space with adjacent kitchen. This space is available for rental for on Friday and Saturday evenings from 7pm to 11pm. No alchol may be served at such events. The rental cost for Friday evenings is $3000 and the rental cost for Saturday evenings is $3500. Fees include Fordham's on site facilities manager, two custodians and a security guard. Renters must provide all other requirements. To inquire about renting Hackl Hall please contact Fordham U.M.C.'s facilities manager Mr. Marcos Sola at 646-228-6075.

Calendar

Calendar
Fordham United Methodist Church offers 9:45 am SUNDAY SCHOOL FOR ALL AGES. Sunday Worship service is at 11 am in the sanctuary. Following many 11 am Sunday Worship Services Fordham U.M.C. offers a "Coffee Hour" which includes a full meal with coffee, tea or water. Holy Communion is typically offered on the first and third Sundays of each month, except September when Holy Communion is offered on the second and fourth Sunday of the month and August when Holy Communion is offered only on the first Sunday of the month.Fordham U.M.C. takes a special collection for Part of the Solution (POTS) on the third Sunday of each month during our 11 am Worship Service. P.O.T.S. is a Bronx based, community organization that feeds the hungry and provides clothing and other services. On Sunday, March 11, 2012 Fordham UMC will honor POTS founder and executive director, Sister Mary Alice Hannan, with FUMCs Second Annual Community Service Award.The Fifth Sunday of a Month is Youth Sunday at Fordham U.M.C. and Youth of all ages lead the 11 am Worship Service.Special Music Worship events are offered throughout the year, including our Fordham at 4pm Concert series. The Suggested donation is $25 for most of these concerts. Our 2012 Guest Preacher Series is detailed on our homepage and the scheduled guest preachers are included in our full calendar below. The series, in honor of Fordham UMCs 160th anniversary and the 25th anniversary of Rev. Curry as the pastor of Fordham, will begin at 11 am on Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012 with Bishop Jeremiah J. Park, Episcopal leader of the New York Annual Conference. Other guest preachers in the series include the current District Superintendent for the NYACs Metropolitan District, Rev. St. Clair A. Samuel (Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012, 11 am), as well as the most recent former District Superintendent, Rev. Noel N. Chin (Sunday, April 8, 2012, 8 am Mens Easter Breakfast service). All are invited to share in this special celebration in the life and ministry of Fordham UMC. December 2011 Dec. 11, 2011 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service, 4 pm is Fordham UMCs 11th Anniversary Worship Service performance of Handel's "Messiah" (Parts I) with a reception after the worship service in Hackl Hall. Dec. 18, 2011 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Holy Communion; special collection for POTS on the third Sunday of each month. Dec. 24, 2011 (Saturday) - 8 pm Special Christmas Eve service of worship . Dec. 25, 2011 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Christmas Day. Dec. 31, 2011 (Saturday) - 10:30 pm to 12 Midnight New Year's Eve Special Worship Service. 2012JanuaryJan. 1, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Covenant Renewal Sunday, Epiphany Sunday, Holy Communion, United Methodist Women host Coffee Hour following the service. Jan. 8, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Baptism of the Lord Sunday, Guest Preacher, Bishop Jeremiah J. Park, Episcopal leader of the NYAC. Jan. 15, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Human Relations Sunday, The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Birthday Celebration Sunday, Holy Communion, POTS Collection, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Randolph W. Nugent, Jr., former Executive Secretary of the General Board of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church. Jan. 22, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Ecumenical Sunday.Jan. 29, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service the Fifth Sunday of the month is Youth Sunday at Fordham U.M.C. and our youth will lead the worship service. February -- BLACK HISTORY MONTHFeb. 5, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Holy Communion, Coffee Hour following service hosted by the African Welfare Committee. Feb. 12, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service. Feb. 19, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Holy Communion, POTS collection, Pastor-Parish Relations Committee hosts Coffee Hour following service, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Gennifer B. Brooks, Professor of Homiletics, Garrett Theological Seminary.Feb. 22, 2012 (Wednesday) - 7:30 pm Ash Wednesday Service Imposition of Ashes. Feb. 26, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service First Sunday of Lent.March March 4, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Second Sunday of Lent, Holy Communion, Coffee Hour following service hosted by the Finance Committee, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Dale Irvin, President, New York Theological Seminary. March 11, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Third Sunday of Lent, Guest Preacher: Rev. Dr. Evelyn McDonald, Pastor, First United Church of Newburgh. United Methodist Womens Self-Denial Sunday, and Second Annual Community Service Award presented to Sister Mary Alice Hanna, Executive Director of Part of the Solution. March 18, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Fourth Sunday in Lent, Holy Communion. March 25, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Fifth Sunday in Lent.April April 1, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Passion/Palm Sunday, Holy Communion, Coffee Hour following service Hosted by the United Methodist Men. April 5, 2012 (Thursday) - 7:30 pm Maundy-Thursday/Holy Thursday Special Worship Service. April 6, 2012 (Friday) - 12 noon - 3 pm Good Friday Special Worship Service, Fellowship meal at 3:15 p.m. in Hackl Hall following worship service. April 8, 2012 (Sunday) - 8 am - 8:45 am Special Morning Worship Service For Easter led by the United Methodist Men, Guest Preacher, Rev. Noel. N. Chin, Pastor, First United Methodist Church of Mt. Vernon and former District Superintendent of the Metropolitan District of the NYAC (with Breakfast In Hackl Hall Following The 8 am Service Hosted by the United Methodist Men) 11 am Worship Service EASTER SUNDAY, Rev. Leo W. Curry, Pastor, Fordham UMC, will preach. April 15, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Second Sunday Of Easter.April 22, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Third Sunday Of Easter, Holy Communion, Guest Preacher, Rev. Fr. Darryl F. James, Priest-in-Charge, Grace Episcopal Church, Jamaica, New York.April 29, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Fourth Sunday Of Easter, Youth Sunday.MayMay 6, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Holy Communion, Usher Board Hosts Coffee Hour Following Service.May 13, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Mother's Day, Guest Preacher, Rev. Cecilia B. Loving, Senior Pastor of the Manhattan based church SPIRITMUV.May 20, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Ascension Sunday, Holy Communion, POTS. CollectionMay 27, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Pentecost Sunday.JuneJune 3, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Trinity Sunday, Holy Communion, Choir Hosts Coffee Hour Following Worship Service.June 6, 2012 (Wednesday) To June 9 (Saturday) Annual Meeting Of The Methodist New York Annual Conference At Hofstra University.June 10, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Second Pentecost Sunday, Church, School Host Coffee Hour Following Service.June 16, 2012 (Saturday) United Methodist Women Flea-Market.June 17, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Men's Day, Father's Day, Holy Communion, Guest Preacher, Rev. Nathaniel T. Grady, Pastor, Saint Marks UMC, Manhattan.June 24, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Celebration of Rev. Curry's 25th Anniversary with Guest Preacher, Rev. Robert O Simpson, Pastor, Janes UMC, Brooklyn, NY and Guest Liturgist, Dr. Addie J. Butler. Dr. Butler and Rev. Curry have known each other since they attended the 5th grade together in Philadelphia, PA. (Following the 11 am service of worship, a special Jazz Coffee Hour will be held in Hackl Hall hosted by Pastor Parish Relations Committee.)JulyJuly 1, 2012 (Sunday) 11 Am Worship Service Independence Sunday, Holy Communion.July 7, 2012 (Saturday) Annual International Festival, Sponsored By United Methodist Women.July 8, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service.July 15, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service POTS Collection, Holy Communion.July 21, 2012 (Saturday) Flea-Market, Sponsored By United Methodist Women.July 22, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Parents Day.July 29, 2012 (Sunday) - 11 am Worship Service Fifth Sunday Is Young Adult Sunday.AugustAugust 5, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Holy Communion.August 12, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service.August 18-26, 2012 Eastern Caribbean Cruise Sponsored By United Methodist Women.August 21, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service United Methodist Women Lead Worship Service,POTS Collection.August 26, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service United Methodist Men Lead Worship Service.SeptemberSeptember 2, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service, Led By Lay Speakers.September 9, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Pastor Curry Returns From Vacation, Holy Communion, Grandparents Day, United Methodist Men Host Coffee Hour Following Service.September 15, 2012 (Saturday) 1 pm Annual Planning Meeting For All Officers Of Fordham United Methodist Church.September 16, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Christian Education Sunday, POTS Collection, Guest Preacher, Mr. Ernest L. Swiggett, former Treasurer and Business Administrator for the NYAC.September 23, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Homecoming Sunday, Family and Friends Day, Holy Communion. Coffee Hour Hosted By All Fordham U.M.C. Committees.September 30, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Youth Led Service.OctoberOctober 7, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service World Communion Sunday, Holy Communion, African Welfare Committee Hosts Coffee Hour Following Service.October 14, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Laity Sunday.October 20, 2012 (Saturday) United Methodist Women Day-Trip.October 21, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Holy Communion, POTS Collection.October 26, 2012 (Friday) 160th Anniversary Banquet (location to be announced). Guest Preacher, Rev. Ian B. Stracker, Adjunct Professor of Church History, Virginia Union Seminary.October 28, 2012 (Sunday) 160th Anniversary of Fordham UMC, 11 am Anniversary Worship Service with Guest Preacher Rev. Dr. William S Shillady, Executive Director, United Methodist City Society. Coffee Hour following Worship Service hosted by the Anniversary Committee. Fordham at 4 pm Concert in the Sanctuary ($25 Suggested Donation).NovemberNovember 4, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service All Saints Sunday, Holy Communion, Finance Committee Hosts Coffee Hour Following Service. Note: Daylight Savings Time Ends, Guest Preacher, Rev. St. Clair A. Samuel, District Superintendent, Metropolitan District, NYAC.November 11, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Annual Women's Day, Guest Preacher, Rev. Dr. Cathy S. Gilliard, Pastor, Park Avenue UMC, Manhattan, United Methodist Women host Coffee Hour following Service.November 18, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Harvest Thanksgiving Sunday, Holy Communion, POTS Collection.November 22, 2012. (Thursday) 12 Noon 5 Pm - Annual Thanksgiving Dinner For The Community. Hosted By Foreign United Methodist Church In Hackl Hall, Sponsored By The Outreach Committee (Meal is Offered Free of Charge To All).November 25, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Christ The King Sunday, Student Day.DecemberDecember 2, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service First Sunday of Advent, Holy Communion, Hospitality Committee Hosts Following Service.December 9, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Second Sunday of Advent, Fordham At 4 pm Christmas Concert, 12th Anniversary performance of Handels Messiah (Sponsored By Music, Worship And Evangelism Committee, $60 Suggested Donation).December 16, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Third Sunday of Advent, Holy Communion, POTS Collection.December 23, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service Fourth Sunday of Advent.December 24, 2012 (Monday) 8 pm Christmas Eve Service.December 30, 2012 (Sunday) 11 am Worship Service First Sunday After Christmas.December 31, 2012 (Monday) 10:30 am New Year's Eve Service Holy Communion, Epiphany Covenant Renewal.

History

History
A few years following the 1841 arrival of the new Harlem River railroad with its station the company named Fordham, a small village began to grow around the depot. In time, a small hotel, a general store and a tavern were built nearby. To the west, a number of small frame cottages erected some thirty years earlier to house farm workers on the Valentine property stood on the hill by the road to King's Bridge. The new Catholic College of St. John abutted the tracks to the east. All the roads in this suburbanizing rural village were unpaved.It was at this time that some residents met to create the Fordham United Methodist Church. Initially, they worshipped in each other's homes until they could build their first church structure. They acquired property on Marion Avenue, one block west of Webster Avenue, north of 194th Street. There, they constructed a small one-storey frame structure. All ethnic groups were welcome.By 1892, the area population had grown, and on the northwest corner of Marion Avenue and Fordham Road, a new one-storey brick church bearing a square crenellated bell tower was built. Lack of money meant some sacrifices were made and the Sunday School space was used as a sanctuary by moving back the sliding walls of the classroom. A gymnasium was added in 1933. Plans were made for a still newer church.In 1967, the old brick building was demolished and for two years services were held in the gym, but construction was underway for the building you see now. In keeping with Fordham United Methodist Church's commitment to diversity and tolerance, everything installed in the modern-style brick building was donated by the multi-ethnic community it serves. The pulpit was donated by Dr. Daniel Mantoccio, a Catholic neighbor, and Benjamin Bobkoff, a Jewish friend, donated the front panel and several pews. When the Bronx Hispanic population increased, the Fordham United Methodist Church responded with Spanish-speaking services as early as 1976.We continue our long tradition of embracing the ethnic diversity of the Bronx and becoming faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. We invite you to join us.

Directions

Directions
We are located off Fordham Road at 2543 Marion Avenue, Bronx, New York. We are easily accessible by car, train, and subway.Fordham Church members live in many areas of New York City. We have members from our local Bronx neighborhood, Co-op City, Manhattan, Riverdale and Westchester. We also have some members who commute from New Jersey. Many members take public transportation on Sunday mornings. Bus and subway information is provided below. Directions by car are also provided.Many members drive to Fordham on Sunday mornings but parking in front of the church on Marion Ave. is limited. There are several parking lots within a 5-10 minute walk from Fordham Church and fees are about $10 on Sundays. During inclement weather we suggest dropping family member off in front of Fordham Church and then parking your car. PARKING LOTS NEAR FORDHAM CHURCH MPG/Gem Parking Corp., 260 East 188th St.. From E. Fordham Rd. turn onto Valentine Ave. and the lot is between 187th and 188th Sts. After parking, walk back to E. Fordham Rd. make a right and walk down E. Fordham Road to Marion Ave., make a left onto Marion Ave. and look for the church's green banner. Valentine Parking, 250 East 187th St. (around the corner from MPG/Gem Parking Corp.) From E. Fordham Rd.turn onto Valentine Ave. and then turn right onto 187th St. The Parking Lot is one block up on the left. After parking, walk back to E. Fordham Rd. and make a right and walk down E. Fordham Rd. to Marion Ave., make a left onto Marion Ave. and look for the church's green banner. MPG Parking, 421 East 189th St. (off of Webster Ave.). From Webster Ave. turn onto Park and the lot is one block up on the left (corner of 189th and Park). After parking, walk back to Webster and turn right, walk to E. Fordham Rd. and turn left. Walk up E. Fordham Rd. and make a left onto Marion Ave. and look for the church's green banner.From Queens by carTake the Triborough Bridge to Major Deegan (87 North) to Fordham Road and make a right. Stay on Fordham Road to Webster Avenue. Make a left (Sears and Roebuck on the corner.) Go one block north to 193rd Street. Make a left, Proceed 2 blocks to Marion Avenue. Make a left to the church.From Brooklyn by carTake the FDR Drive to Exit 18 (Willis Avenue Bridge) to Major Deegan (87 North) to Fordham Road and make a right. Stay on Fordham Road to Webster Avenue. Make a left (Sears and Roebuck on the corner.) Go one block north to 193rd Street. Make a left, Proceed 2 blocks to Marion Avenue. Make a left to the church.Metro North from Grand Central TerminalGet off at the Fordham Road/Webster Avenue station. Upon exiting the station, turn right walking up a slight hill for three blocks to Marion Avenue. Turn right on Marion Avenue to the church. Look for the green banner.By Train:Take the "4" to Jermoe Avenue and Fordham Road stop. Walk to Grand Concourse, and then go 8 blocks East to Marion Avenue (proceed as above).orTake the "D" train to Fordham Road stop. Get out on 188th street and Grand Concourse. Walk one block North to Fordham Road. Make a right on e block east. Walk 6 blocks to Marion Avenue (proceed as above).

Donate

Donations
We are a multi-ethnic parish that has been part of the Bronx for generations. Founded in 1852, Fordham United Methodist Church is called to be a church where people grow spiritually, develop an essential Christian character, experience the transforming grace of God, deepen the relationship with God and become faithful disciples of Jesus Christ and the world. You can make your tax-deductible donation online via PayPal or you can send your donation to Fordham United Methodist Church at 2543 Marion Avenue, Bronx, New York.

Terms

Privacy Policy

Terms & Conditions
Fordham United Methodist Church maintains this website as a service to its members and visitors. The Terms of Use set forth below govern your use of this website, and by using the website you agree to be bound by them. Therefore, please read the Terms of Use carefully before you use this website. If you do not agree with our Terms of Use, please do not use this website.TERMS OF USETrademarks and Copyrights; All Rights ReservedFordham United Methodist Church reserves all of its rights and does not grant any express or implied rights to you or any other user of the website under any trademark, copyright, trade secret or other intellectual property law, except as provided below with regard to the use of downloaded messages. This website and all of the text, graphics, pictures, audio messages, video materials, downloadable materials and all other materials and content on the website are copyrighted by and are the property of Fordham United Methodist Church, except wherein pre-existing agreements have been made. You may not use them in any manner without the express written consent of Fordham United Methodist Church.Copyright notice: The photographs on the site were taken by Fordham U.M.C. member Mr. Dunbar Greaves, c Dubar Greaves and Fordham U.M.C.Copyright notice: This website is the property of Fordham U.M.C., c Fordham United Methodist Church.Copyright notice: The sermons on this website are the property of Rev. Leo W. Curry, c Rev. Leo W. Curry.Web Boards and other Posted InformationAny posting on our website is subject to the Terms of Use and the Privacy Policy. You cannot submit defamatory, obscene or otherwise harmful or offensive information or materials or information or materials that violate or infringe upon intellectual property rights or other rights. By posting you agree and warrant to Fordham United Methodist Church that your posting meets all of the conditions for submission. We reserve the right not to publish any posting or to remove it from the website or other media at any time and for any reason without notice. Notwithstanding the above, Fordham United Methodist Church expressly disclaims any responsibility or liability for any material communicated by third parties through this website, including without limitation any posting on the website. Postings do not necessarily reflect the views of Fordham United Methodist Church or its agents or affiliated organizations.Use of Downloaded MessagesWe are glad to make our sermons and other messages available for download free of charge. However, your right to use downloaded messages is limited. A message downloaded from our website is only for personal use only. Written and audio sermons and other downloadable messages are copyrighted by and are the property of Fordham United Methodist Church.Disclaimer of WarrantiesAll materials and other content of this website or accessible from this website are provided on an as is basis and Fordham United Methodist Church expressly disclaims any express or implied warranties or conditions of any kind, including without limitation any warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose or use, title or non-infringement.Limitation of LiabilityBy using this website you agree that Fordham United Methodist Church and each of its directors, officers, employees, other agents and affiliated organizations shall not be liable to you for any damage of any kind arising from or related to the use of this website or any website for which a link is provided on this site.Applicable LawUse of this website and any claim or dispute arising from or related to use of this website is governed by the laws of the State of Massachusetts, without regard to any rule or principle regarding conflicts of laws. The exclusive jurisdiction and venue of any such claim or dispute shall be in the state and federal courts for Bronx County, New York.
Fordham United Methodist Church maintains this website as a service to its members and visitors. The Privacy Policy set forth below governs your use of this website, and by using the website you agree to be bound by them. Therefore, please read the Privacy Policy carefully before you use this website. If you do not agree with our Privacy Policy, please do not use this website.

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