In 1887, a small group of first settlers of Dunn Loring felt the need for religious services in the community. Thomas Tudor Taylor, one of the first residents of Dunn Loring, encouraged Pastor O. C. Bell of Andrew chapel Methodist Church to come to Dunn Loring on Sunday afternoons to conduct services. Pastor Bell preached in a grove near what is now Sandburg Street and the W&OD bike trail. Soon it became apparent that a church building was needed to shelter the Lord's flock. General William McKee Dunn and Dr. George B. Loring were co-owners and developers of the Dunn Loring subdivision in the late 1800's. General Dunn announced that he would donate some of his land if the people would erect a building thereon. Thomas T. Taylor was responsible for erecting the building, and for soliciting contributions of cash, labor, and materials. This building was known as the "Little White Church" at 2438 Gallows Road.

In the early years, the church was served by ministers from Dulin Chapel in Falls Church, and later by ministers from Andrew Chapel Methodist Church. Prior to 1941, the Rev. P. C. Helmintoller, Jr., conducted services in the Dunn Loring Church twice per month. The congregation numbered just 16 members, one-third of whom were absentee. Despite this small membership and the suggestion that the church disband, Rev. Helmintoller persisted, and began holding regular services each Sunday afternoon. In September 1941, the Sunday School was organized under the leadership of Robert G. Buckelew and Mr. G. F. Worley. The response was enthusiastic, and by the end of the year the congregation had grown to nearly 60. In June 1957, Dunn Loring became a station appointment with Donald S. Stanton as pastor. By early 1960, the size of the congregation made it clear that a new church building was necessary to house the growing congregation. In April 1961, the Trustees met at the home of Frank W. Rubright, 2501 Gallows Road, to discuss the purchase of his property, which was for sale. This property, across from the "Little White Church" was eventually purchased in July 1962. Prior to settlement, Reverend George G. Oliver became pastor at Dunn Loring, returning to the church in which he preached his first sermon in 1908. His considerable experience in designing and building churches proved to be a valuable asset to the Dunn Loring Church building program. In June 1966, ground breaking services were held, and in November 1966, the church was dedicated with the laying of the cornerstone.

Looking Ahead

At present, Dunn Loring offers two worship services on Sunday -- the Joy and Praise Contemporary Service at 9:00, and at 11:00 a more traditional worship, with communion the first Sunday of every month. Two adult, two children's, a youth and nursery/preschool Sunday School classes are offered at 9:50 am.

The United Methodist Women continue the good works of their predecessors in the Ladies Aid. They continue to raise money for special projects within the church, foster fellowship by holding church dinners, bake sales, and ice cream socials. The UMW reaches out to the community with yard sales and an ice cream social at Iliff Nursing Home. From the beginning of the "ladies groups" in Dunn Loring, the focus has been a concern for Missions. Each year the UMW assembles Mission Kits and raises money for our LORD's work in our congregation as well as district and conference needs. All women of the church are encouraged to join the UMW.

The Youth at Dunn Loring are very active. In 1999, four youth and two chaperoning adults attended the international gathering of United Methodist Youth in Knoxville, two of our senior youth were selected to travel to the United Nations in New York to participate in the United Methodist United Nations Seminar. In 2000, the Youth Group has been involved in worthwhile fund-raising and fellowship activities. Over $700 was raised in May to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Over half of the youth participated in Awakenings 2000 in Williamsburg, Virginia.

As a result of a generous memorial gift, a number of long-awaited church projects are being undertaken. For example, new carpeting was installed in the sanctuary and fresh paint is being applied throughout the church building. Also, the Parlor has been updated with new furniture and a fresh look, and the Nursery has been brightened by a child-friendly mural covering one wall.

Homecoming 2000 allows us a chance to look back on where we have been as a church. Faith, dedication, persistence, and a commitment to serve the Lord characterize the members of Dunn Loring United Methodist Church. As the Dunn Loring Church family of 2000, we have the opportunity to look ahead to where we are going. Are we doing all we can to further God's work? What do we need to be doing to live our lives to please God?

Pastors of Dunn Loring United Methodist Church
1950 - present:

1950 - 1955 Rev. E. R. Thayer
1955 - 1957 Rev. Edward Herbert Wright
1957 - 1959 Rev. Donald S. Stanton
1959 - 1961 Rev. Phillips King Foote
1961 - 1968 Rev. George G. Oliver
1968 - 1973 Rev. Melvin Lee Steadman, Jr.
1973 - 1978 Rev. William Garland Price
1978 - 1982 Rev. James Mason Cosby
1982 - 1989 Rev. Allen Daniel Minter
1989 - 1991 Rev. David R. Boger
1991 - 1997 Rev. James N. Wishmyer
1997 - present -Rev. Kathleen M. R. Monge

This brief history was compiled from notes and written text prepared previously by Ray Worley and others in the church. A complete church history "book" is being considered. Anyone interested in helping to compile such a book should contact the church office.