Catalina United Methodist Church has been a place of worship, an icon, and a celebratory location in Tucson for 100 years this year! Christened University Methodist Church on Easter Sunday, April 16, 1922, located at the northwest corner of University Blvd. (then 3rd St.) and Euclid Ave., that congregation grew into what is now Catalina United Methodist Church at its current location on East Speedway Blvd.
Many who have lived in Tucson for any length of time have attended an event or service at Catalina. Whether it was a Sunday church service, Christmas or Easter service, Bible Study, wedding, memorial service, choir concert, organ concert, community service project, youth group, summer camp, Vacation Bible School, Memorial Garden experience, or the Catalina Day School, the church has had connections throughout the valley for the past 100 years!
Catalina is known for having an impact on Tucson’s religious, cultural, and social justice landscape over the years. In 1940 the University Methodist Church gave space to gather for the Tucson Boys Chorus, founded by Eduardo Caso a member of the church. Catalina sponsored the Sunday Evening Forum which featured nationally known speakers and performances from 1942 – 1984. Catalina’s pastor Roland Brammeier founded Tucson Metropolitan Ministries in the early 1970s. Catalina United Methodist Church helped to start six other United Methodist Churches in Arizona. Catalina is a member of the Reconciling Ministry Network. Catalina has produced over 30 United Methodist pastors over the years; individuals who grew up in the church and/or folks who have come to be sponsored by the church. Catalina United Methodist Church has made a positive difference in the spiritual lives of thousands of people.
Catalina has a history of an exemplary Music Ministry with the Sanctuary Choir, Bell ringers, Catalina Brass, and the Cornerstone Contemporary Band. In the past, the Sanctuary choir has toured Europe and has sung at Carnegie Hall. The Organ Festival, which occurs throughout the year, brings world-renowned organists to perform concerts on the Quimby pipe organ.
We would be honored if you would help us celebrate our rich history and – attend our Centennial Sunday Service and Open House
SUNDAY, APRIL 24, 2022
10:00 AM: Sanctuary service followed by a community open house.
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Campus tours, history displays, food trucks, conversations, memories, and more!
Please join us – you will probably see someone you know!
To another 100 years! Please Pass the word!
Sincerely,
Rev. Melissa Rynders
Rev. Matt Colby
Catalina Staff and Congregation
Judy Wingert, Centennial Chair
