Southside Methodist Church Marks 75th Anniversary with Campus Enhancements

Updates are coming to Southside Methodist on Hendricks Avenue as it continues celebrating its 75th anniversary.

A new brick-and-mortar fence are part of these updates, with construction crews starting work last month to upgrade the church’s perimeter fencing as part of the church’s long-range vision for campus improvements. Landscaping upgrades are included in this vision as well.

“We are essentially creating a beautiful park,” said Senior Pastor Phillip Short. “Like the Prayer Garden, and the church itself, people are welcome in. Our gates are open for you to enter in and enjoy.”

The new iron- and brick-pillared fence will combine safety and beauty, while the improved landscaping will enhance views of the historic sanctuary from the street. The church’s marquee sign has also been updated to improve visibility.

Funding for these improvements was provided through gifts of remembrance for two church parishioners: Wendy Laprade and Barry Henry.

“They both loved Jesus and learned and served him through the church,” said Short. “These touching changes are sure to stir the memories of all who ever knew them.”

The church has also made the decision to enclose a key point of the property – home to the Southside Pumpkin Patch in the fall – in order to provide a safe place for its community to gather. 

“So many community individuals – children, families, seniors, and visitors – use the point space throughout the week,” said Mara Webb, Southside Methodist Church director of communications. “We recognized the importance of creating a clearly defined, secure area that allows everyone to move freely and safely.”

Webb added, “The new fence is more than a boundary. Its clean lines and intentional design complement the church’s historical architecture, blending in seamlessly without disrupting the openness and welcoming feel of our grounds.”