History of Magnolia United Methodist Church
 

Magnolia began as an outgrowth of Main Street Methodist Church in Suffolk.  The original Magnolia Church was built in 1884 on what is now Nansemond Parkway, on a piece of land given by Mr. John Vinson.  Today, none of this original structure remains. 
 

In June 1901, Magnolia Church exchanged its existing property for a lot on the corner of Nansemond Parkway and Portsmouth Boulevard.  The church opened for worship in 1901 and flourished.  We were on a charge with other Methodist churches until we became a single station church in 1961.  We continued to grow and, with the need for expansion, we purchased our present property on Wilroy Road in 1963.  We built a sanctuary, kitchen, and a row of classrooms in 1964 and the first worship service was held in 1965. 
 

The parsonage was built in the mid-1970's and our new sanctuary was completed in 1984.  Our seating capacity is 225 with a choir area for 27.  We began an 8:30 Sunday morning service in the late 1980's.  The mortgage note for the sanctuary was burned in 1999.  Presently, we are phasing a Master Plan, and Phase One will be an Educational Center.  We are exploring a full-time state-accredited Child Day Care in the new building with a full slate of family ministries. 
 

Magnolia has a strong evangelical heritage in the Wesleyan tradition that emphasizes the grace of God available to everyone, the centrality of the cross, bringing people to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, nurturing them to become disciples, and equipping people to be in ministry for and with their neighbors.  We offer home Bible study groups, pastoral counseling, a variety of children's activities, a Youth Fellowship for Grades 6-12, and we carry a full program of Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.  We have an equally strong reputation in the community for helping others in crisis.  Some of our outreach includes hosting Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Compulsive Eaters Anonymous, and a Multiple Sclerosis support group. 
 

All that we do reflects our common goal: to make disciples of Jesus Christ.
 

Applefest (in October) is a fun time of providing a variety of fresh mountain apples and cider to our area.  Homemade goods, Brunswick stew, and crafts make for an enjoyable fall festival.  Call the church or e-mail us for an order form in September.  Springfest (usually in May) is our festival that includes Gospel singing, yard sale, crafts, children's activities, and great bargains for everyone.  We usually add something new every year.  We look forward to seeing you at both events!