How Firm a Foundation: The Story of Florida's First Methodist Church.

Odom, Wesley S.

Published by Pensacola, Florida: First Methodist Church, Pensacola, (). First Edition., 2012

About this Item

Quarto, black & white photo. illus. slick boards (hardcover), [x] + 753 pp. Good+, with edgewear. Illustrations throughout. From lower cover: Established in 1821, Florida's First Methodist Church has a remarkable story. It survived fires, thefts, wars, hurricanes, epidemics, debts, deaths, terminations, schisms, and scandals. Despite the hardships, God never abandoned the congregation, but guided the church onward. Over 100 ministers served there. For some the appointment was a burden; for others it was a labor of love. They all improved their congregation's understanding of the Word and provided comfort. Because of talented ministerial and lay leadership, the church moved beyond a small rural pastorate and progressively risked larger facilities that would broaden its outreach. Eventually, it mothered other churches, launched missions elsewhere, and became one of the most significant churches in its Conference. Historian Wesley Odom traces the development of this unique Pensacola institution in a masterful way, incorporating social, economic, and political influences, detailed analysis, and thorough research. He habitually relied upon primary sources and conducted dozens of interviews. His "buttom-up" approach creates an exciting, inspirational, and fascinating story that reads easily and contains many surprises. Both the casual reader and professional historian can appreciate this epic manuscript. Florida, Floridiana, Florida History, Church History, Methodist Church. mslic.

Seller Inventory # 9320gcs

Bibliographic Details

• Title: How Firm a Foundation: The Story of Florida's First Methodist Church.
• Publisher: Pensacola, Florida: First Methodist Church, Pensacola, (). First Edition.
• Publication Date: 2012
• Binding: Hardcover