The formation of Blythe Island United Methodist Church began in June and July of 1961 when two separate meetings were held to determine whether or not to purchase a piece of property from Mr. John Bennett. Those present were: Mr. & Mrs. R. S. Harper, Mr. & Mrs. A. J. Mavromat, Mr. & Mrs. Q. L. Strickland,  Mrs. C. C. Roberts, Mrs. Mary Strickland and Leroy Dowling.

  Subsequently, a one week revival was held from July 30 through August 5, 1961, with various pastors and laymen scheduled to speak each evening. At this meeting Reverend I. L. Bishop, a retired minister, agreed to serve as pastor for one year with no salary. Mrs. Bishop was to serve as music director for $50 per month (to defray travel expenses).

  A tent was borrowed from Lakeside Methodist Church. Camp Tolochee, through Mr. Tommy Thompson, loaned the first church benches. Arco Methodist Church loaned a pulpit desk and Mr. Chester Anderson of Anderson Music Company loaned a piano. Captain Brockington donated lumber for a platform. Lakeside Methodist Church loaned us a number of pews, and Mr. Jeff Lee donated the electricity.

We look forward to gifted members, family, and friends to share their talents with BIUMC.  Rev. Rich was a colorful, God-fearing man with a christian testimony to share with anyone he met.  We miss him greatly.

1961