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By Brandy Centolanza

Contributing writer

Woodland United Methodist Church in Windsor is reaching a milestone this month as it turns 150 years old. The congregation will hold a celebration in commemoration of the anniversary on Oct. 15.

Bonnie Adams, chair of the anniversary committee, has deep roots with the church. Her grandmother’s parents, George and Ida Griffin, were the first couple to be married in the church in 1881, while her great-grandfather John W. Doggett was among the first to be buried in the church cemetery. Adams has been a member of Woodland United Methodist Church since birth. She took a respite for a few years after moving from the area, and rejoined the congregation roughly 20 years ago when she moved back.

“Coming back to the church was like coming back home again,” she said. “It’s exciting to think that the church is a part of my history.”

Adams remembers returning for Woodland’s 100th anniversary celebration while she was in college.

“I can’t believe how fast these past 50 years have flown by,” she said. “The church has changed with time, but it has also still stayed the same. It still has the same sense of community and is still considered the site of the community.”

Woodland United Methodist Church is located at 20051 Orbit Road.  Years ago, men and women had to sit on opposite sides during services. The church was also once part of a charge, sharing a minister with larger churches, but has been independent since the 1990s. Currently, there are between 55 and 60 active members, and they are looking to grow.

As the church evolved, it also began offering mission trip opportunities, which allowed members of the congregation to connect with others outside of the community and the commonwealth. Members are involved in helping others in many ways, especially during the holidays. Woodland’s annual bazaar is planned this year for Nov. 11.

The 150th anniversary celebration, meanwhile, will take place on Oct. 15 with a special service starting at 11 a.m. followed by a luncheon. The lunch programming will include music, history and memories, with former ministers in attendance. Artifacts will also be on display. Adams said they continue to look for more church members past and present who would like to attend and share their memories and what Woodland United Methodist Church has meant to them. They are also looking for old photos.

“We’ve been attracting people for 150 years,” she said. “To see a church last this long is wonderful. We are looking forward to everyone celebrating with us.”

For more information on Woodland United Methodist Church, visit www. woodlandumcwindsor.org.