First United Methodist Plans Move To Sartell

ST. CLOUD -- A St. Cloud Church will be leaving its current location and is moving to Sartell. First United Methodist Church at 302 5th Avenue South is building a new church on a 20-acre site along the west side of Pinecone Road. It will be a new 20,500 square-foot facility west of the Coborn's Superstore.

Pastor Bill Meyer says it makes sense to move now because they have run out of space for both their congregation and parking. Meyer says the church would also need extensive renovation that could cost more than new construction.

The church has raised about $1.3-million toward the $3.7-million cost. He says they are in negotiations to sell their current property and will put that money toward the new church too.

The new church will incorporate the existing stained glass from the 5th Avenue site as well as a 10-foot statue that will be housed in their new sanctuary.

The Sartell site will also include up to 170 parking stalls with room for expansion.

First United Methodist plans to break ground this summer and be in the church in time for next Easter.