The below document is in the Crawford County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society Church Records Collection.
The Church of the United Brethren in Christ in Galion dates back to 1852. In that year Rev. Frances Clymer, an itinerate United Brethren minister, joined in union evangelistic services with Rev. Frances Ruth, pastor of First Lutheran Church. At the conclusion of the meeting participants were given a choice as to which church they wished to join. About thirty formed the First United Brethren Congregation.
At first services were held in the First Lutheran Church, then in the old Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1897 plans were underway for a new church, but following the completion of the brick work, a terrific storm blew it down. In 1900 a new church was built in the same location. Years later, in 1946, fire destroyed the parsonage, church and contents. The congregation temporarily worshipped at East School, but immediately made plans for a new church at the corner of Cherry St. and South State road (Route 61). The cornerstone from the old church was used.
First services in the new structure were held March 12, 1950. The second phase of the building was started in April 1958, with dedication services May 31, 1959. The congregation expanded their facilities with periodic purchase of surrounding land for parking. A shelter house was added to the grounds.
The name St. Paul United Methodist Church was chosen at the time of the 1968 merger.
In 1974, it was determined there was need for more space, and a church expansion committee was formed. In 1979 a three-year stewardship campaign was conducted for faith commitments. On August 21, 1980, ground was broken for the new Educational Unit. September, 1981, was the completion date.
Persons from St. Paul who were ordained into ministry include Rev. John Roseberry and Rev. John Mahaffey.
