Christian Union Church

942-7712 (office)

    Our church was built in 1913 as the result of the vision of Pastor A.C. Thomas. As Milo was a growing community the members of three outlaying churches, Hammondsburg, Goodes Chapel, and Belmont Zion met and decided to merge and build a central church on two lots donated by Cora Slone for that purpose. This church is affectionately known as the "Mother Church". They accepted the plans submitted by A.C.Thomas and the building was completed in six months at the cost of $12,500. The construction was completed on Dec. 19, 1913 and the first worship was conducted in Jan. 1914 by Rev. Thomas before 300 people. The dedication was held June 21, 1914 to the worship and service of God and that purpose remains first and foremost to this day. The seven principles of Christian Union were formulated by founders of Christian Union in Civil War days who believed that only the word of God be preached from the pulpit.

   These principles have with stood the test of time. There were 78 charter members and one, Irene Hale Heavilen, lived until 1997. There have been 25 pastors in our 93 years, the present being Pastor Stan Hughes and wife, Jan, now completing their first year with us. The structure of the church remains the same, well maintained by caring people over the years. The Sunday School addition was added in 1962 at the cost of $16,000 to accommodate the growing membership. It includes 10 Sunday School rooms, an assembly hall, the Library, Pastor's study and Secretary's office.
    The unique features are the stained glass windows purchased over-seas and donated by members of the congregation and are now memorials to these families. Each depicts a Bible truth. Then there is the silver dome with its spire pointing toward Heaven. The circle of lights inside adds to the beauty of the Sanctuary. The ornate pews were chosen to compliment the architecture of the building. Pads were added in later years for comfort.
    As time passed, other needs arose and the Lord provided. When natural gas came to Milo the necessary new furnaces were installed and the huge wood and coal furnace removed. The furnace room became the nursery and the kitchen was remodel then there was a need for a sound system installed in the balcony to accommodate the main floor and the basement. Video equipment was purchased, also copiers and computer. Handicap accessibility became an important issue, as there are many steps at both entryways. A lift was installed with entry at ground level outside the church to go up to the sanctuary or down to the fellowship hall and Sunday School rooms. This also called for a handicapped accessible rest room.
   Christian Union is much more than mortar and bricks, lumber and windows. It is the "House of God" where one can come and find salvation and peace of mind. A place to learn the word of God and direction in our lives. Countless revivals have been held and hundreds of souls saved in our 93 years of existence in Milo. At least three generations have passed through our doors and if the Lord tarries many more will come.
    Our doors are open every Sunday at 9:30 A.M. and 6:00 P.M. and Weds. at 6:00 P.M. for a fellowship meal and Bible study with classes for all ages. In our church activities we are endeavoring to exalt Christ in a way that others may come to know and love Him as we try to do. Also we want you to know there is a place here for you at Christian Union.

Milo United Methodist Church
Jodi Rushing, Pastor
300 Spruce Street
P.O. Box 93
942-7739 (office)
Pastor's Address
308 Spruce Street
Milo, IA 50166
Pastor's home phone: 641-042-7759
Pastor's cell phone: 515-321-3234

CJRUSHING@AOL.COM