Our History
Soddy United Methodist Church traces its roots back to 1860, when a missionary known as Miss Holland arrived in the Soddy community. While her reason for coming is unknown, her impact is clear. She gathered five individuals for a prayer meeting at the home of George Varner, a respected local citizen, planting the first seeds of what would become a lasting faith community.
Even as the Civil War loomed, this small group was determined to establish a church. When many of Soddy’s men—including some of the original organizers—enlisted with the Union forces, the women of the community stepped forward. Their faith, leadership, and perseverance allowed the congregation not only to survive but to grow.
This early fellowship became known as The Friendship Church of Soddy, laying the foundation for the church we are today. Our history is a testament to courage, commitment, and the enduring power of community rooted in faith.
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The Beginning
The birth of the Methodist Church in Soddy. A Miss Holland, from Williams Island met with five others at a home on Hickman Road for a prayer meeting. The others were Mrs. James Varner, Mrs. Marie Brown, George Varner, Hezekiah and Mary Varner.
Abraham Lincoln had just accepted the presidency of the United States. The Confederacy, “the South,” was yet to secede, so the American Civil War had not yet begun.
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A Church Is Built
The tiny group of Christians had outgrown meetings in private homes. They built a church on the comer of Hickman Road and Depot Street and named it “The Friendship Church of Soddy.”
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Revival
The first tent revival was held at the site of the original church building.
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A New Home
The present church building is purchased from the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The Ladies Aid Society is organized. Electric lights are installed.
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Service and Fellowship
The Christian Service Club was formed for the purpose of doing Christian work for the church and improving church property. They installed the current pews in the church auditorium in the year 1939. The Fellowship Class is formed in 1946.
1940
Memorial Windows
Memorial stained glass windows are installed. Steel frames are added in 1951.
1951
Music Ministry
A new organ is purchased by the Fellowship Class. Church chimes are installed in 1958.
1992
Feeding the Community
In 1989, a movement began to establish a food bank within the church. By 1992, the Methodist churches of Soddy and Daisy had joined together to operate a food bank located in the basement of the Soddy church.
2002
A Milestone
Celebration of the church building’s 100th anniversary.
