Our History
The Story of Centenary Methodist Church—A Heritage Set in Stone
Following Our Methodist Heritage Since 1809
Shortly after the Louisiana Purchase, the first Methodist families crossed the Mississippi River into what would become the State of Missouri, and in 1806, the first Methodist circuit riders arrived. By 1809, those pioneer families in the Cape Girardeau area were organized into Methodist classes. Progress was slow to come, but the Cape Methodists eventually constructed small frame church buildings in the early 1840s and 1850s.
1870s-1890s
Forming Our Congregation
The exact congregation that became Centenary Church was formed in the 1870s, in the aftermath of the Civil War, and formally recognized in 1882. The next two decades were marked by steady growth, as we moved from one church building to another, soon outgrowing both.
1900s-1910s
Building Centenary Methodist Church
In 1906, we broke ground on a new church at Sprigg and Ellis and renamed ourselves “Centenary” to commemorate a hundred years of Methodism in Missouri. Our beautiful new church was completed in 1909, but was destroyed by a tragic fire in 1914. Less than a year and a half later, we rebuilt the church on the same foundation as it stands today.
1920s-1960s
Decades of Progress
Our education building was built in 1927, in response to enormous growth in the Sunday School, the largest in the community. Centenary continued to flourish despite the challenges of the Great Depression and World War II. As our membership peaked in the mid-1960s, Centenary became a lasting icon of Christian faith in Cape Girardeau.
1970s-1990s
Modernizing and Expanding
In 1973, we reconfigured and remodeled our sanctuary, connecting it to the Education Building and adding the Kimbel Memorial Chapel. Our Family Life Center was completed in 1992, providing an ideal forum for fellowship and recreation for both the Church and the community.
Early 2000s
Adapting to Changing Times
Early on, we upgraded our facilities to include a new children’s center, library, parlor and music room. Then in 2014, we significantly renovated and remodeled our Education Building, which now houses our immensely successful Children’s Pre-School Program.
2023
Joining the Global Methodist Church
In 2023, Centenary became a member of the Global Methodist Church, still celebrating our Methodist heritage as ever before, and making disciples of Jesus Christ who worship passionately, love extravagantly, and witness boldly.
Our Core Values Through History
Tradition and Innovation
Our journey through the generations reflects a deep respect for tradition coupled with a readiness to innovate and grow.
Family and Community
From our early days, we have fostered a sense of family and belonging, welcoming all into our fold.
Faith and Service
Our history is a testament to our unwavering faith and commitment to serving God and our community.
Join Us in Celebrating Our Legacy of Love
Discover the warmth of our church family and be a part of our ongoing story. At Centenary, we honor our past as we boldly step into the future.