Centennial

Our First 100 Years

Woodland Christian Church's unique character has been shaped in large part by the history of its neighborhood, the "Woodlands," as well as, the people who call it home.

In 1908 the east end of Lexington was developing rapidly. Maxwell School had been built in 1904 on the corner of Woodland Avenue and Maxwell Street. The new Woodland Auditorium had been completed in October 1905. Members from several Lexington churches decided it was time to establish a new church in the east end. In April 1908, Charles Scoville, evangelist, conducted a revival for Broadway Christian Church. Because of the large number of attendees, the revival was moved to the Woodland Park Auditorium. Many people and families continued meeting afterward.

Things proceeded rapidly. In June 1908 land and the red-brick O'Neill residence was purchased across the street from the Auditorium. In July 1908 Rev. Charles E. Powell, who lived on Kentucky Avenue, was called to serve as the new congregation's first pastor.

A small frame chapel was built for approximately $1500 and dedicated November 20, 1908. Note: Kentucky Avenue is on the right of the picture and High Street runs across the front. They are dirt roads at this time.

The Ladies Aid Society raised $500 in three months to support the effort.

Construction on the present building began in 1922. The chapel was moved to the back of the lot. Woodland Park Auditorium can be seen at the far left of the new building. Ten families mortgaged their homes to underwrite the construction. Sunday School classes met in the new building for the first time February 17, 1924.

Although Woodland has had several fantastic ministers, one minister stands out because of the long tenure he served Woodland, and the things the church accomplished while under his leadership. The Reverend Hayes Farish was called to pastor Woodland January 1, 1922. He served for 35 years, and retired December 31, 1956. His legacy includes:

Construction of the present building
Christian education
First Vacation Bible School in Lexington in 1925
Support of Missions
Open doors to the community
Woodland’s first newsletter: The Echoes
Formation of The KY Council of Churches
Ecumenism

The first Vacation Bible School ever held in Lexington was at Woodland Christian Church in June 1925. It consisted of three (3) weeks of daily activities.

Woodland has always been active in inter-faith activities, including allowing the congregation of Temple Adath Israel to the Woodland building while their building being constructed. Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon, Woodland has hosted several inter-faith events.

In 1999 the congregation underwent a "Faithful Planning" process to answer the question: What is God calling us to be and do at this time and in this place? As a result, Woodland decided to remain an inner city church and refocus its ministry in the local community. A Statement of Calling was also drafted during this time which begins with, “We Welcome All.” Jesus welcomed all, whatever their circumstances, and therefore so does Woodland. Woodland celebrated its 100th birthday May 24, 2008.