Saint John's United Methodist Church

Virginia Conference, Staunton District

1716 North Augusta Street
Staunton, VA  24401
540-886-1500

The Reverend Doctor Patrica M. Meadows, Pastor

The Reverend W.S. 'Zig' Volskis, Pastor Emeritus


     A history of St. John's United Methodist Church of Staunton, Virginia

     Saint John's United Methodist Church was founded in the early 1950's as a result of residential growth in the north end of the city of Staunton.  A group of persons from Central Methodist Church expressed a willingness to help form this new congregation.  The Reverend Fletcher W. Swink served his first appointment as the pastor of this new church.  The initial meeting was held in rented facilities on July 11, 1954 with 32 persons present.  The number grew to 60 by October at which time the church was officially chartered.  A permanent site was selected, and construction approval was granted on September 21, 1955.  The first service was held in the new sanctuary on August 4, 1957 with construction and consecration of a new educational building in March of 1958.  By June of 1958 membership stood at 253.   Growth continued and a new educational wing was added in 1968.

     Through the years, there have been many dedicated, creative, and hard working people to participate and serve in all areas of the life of the church.  No talent has been too small to be used and appreciated. Saint John's United Methodist Church has always sought to express its love and concern for those persons in need both in the local community and beyond.  Saint John's PreSchool was added to our ministry in 1987.

     No church can flourish and grow without loyal pastors and people who serve with faith.   St. John's has been blessed!  Sixteen pastors, including our present pastor, the Rev. Doctor Patricia M. Meadows, established their place in our hearts as each has inspired, guided, and encouraged us in our witness to God's greatness and love.

Our Pastors;
Fletcher W. Swink  1954-1958 
Frank L. Baker  1958-1961 
Elmore Brown  1961-1963 
Samuel A. Stanley, Jr.  1963-1970 
Edward A. Plunkett  1970-1971 
Jenus G. Long, Jr.  1971-1975 
Edward M. Ridout  1975-1979 
Charles H. Walton  1979-1982 
John H. Bartee, Jr.  1982-1985 
Donald N. Fridinger  1985-1989 
James R. Cooke, Sr.  1989-1993 
W.S. 'Zig' Volskis  1993-1996 
Donald W. Wilson  1996-1999 
Richard H. Ecklund  1999-2002 
Steven Greer  2002-2008 
Patricia M. Meadows  2008-  

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Updated 11/20/2008, 12:43, ebt

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