Methodism has been a cornerstone of the Gladeville community since the early 19th century. From humble beginnings in a log cabin to our modern worship facilities, our journey reflects a deep commitment to faith and fellowship.

Early Foundations (1810–1832)
The Methodist movement in Gladeville began around 1810, with early believers gathering in the log cabin of John Rice. By 1814, the congregation established its first dedicated meeting house, known as “Giliad,” located on Benjamin Nichols’ land near what is now Odum Lane and Stewart’s Ferry Pike.

The Glade Meeting House (1833–1889)
In 1833, Benjamin Hooker deeded six acres of land to be used for a school and a church—the same site where we worship today. The original structure, the “Glade Meeting House,” was a cross-shaped log building. Led by preacher John Rice, this building served the congregation for several decades, including through the challenging years of the Civil War.

Growth and Modernization (1890–1945)
In 1890, the log structure was replaced by a white frame building. This single-room sanctuary was heated by pot-bellied stoves and lit by kerosene lamps, serving as both a worship space and a classroom for the congregation.

The Brick Sanctuary and Expansions (1946–2006)
A new era began in 1946 with the construction of a brick structure featuring a sanctuary, basement, and three classrooms. Over the following decades, the campus expanded to meet the needs of a growing community:
2000: Completion of the Fellowship Hall and kitchen.
2003: Addition of a music room and classrooms, which later became our dedicated Youth Room.

A New Vision (2007–Present)
In 2007, our congregation launched a major building campaign to expand our ministry. This project culminated in the June 28, 2009 dedication of our modern Worship Center, which included a new gathering area and additional office space.

As part of this expansion, the former sanctuary was preserved as our Historical Chapel. This space maintains the church’s original stained-glass windows and features a baptismal pool and a historical gallery chronicling our 200-year legacy.

Denominational Evolution
Throughout our history, our name has changed to reflect our evolving denominational affiliations:
1833: Gladeville Methodist Episcopal Church
1845: Gladeville Methodist Episcopal Church South
1939: Gladeville Methodist Church
1968: Gladeville United Methodist Church
2023: Gladeville Methodist Church

On February 27, 2023, the congregation voted to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church. This request was approved by the Tennessee and Western Kentucky Annual Conference on May 22, 2023. Effective January 1, 2024, Gladeville Methodist officially became a member congregation of the Global Methodist Church Mid-South Conference.