About Hayes Barton United Methodist Church
Worshiping in the heart of Raleigh since 1936.
Hayes Barton United Methodist Church is a vibrant and connected faith community that exists so that all of God’s people can come alive in God’s kingdom. We seek to do this through worshiping together as often as possible, growing in our love and understanding of God, and serving Jesus by serving our neighbors, in this community and beyond.
Get to know our staff.
Our story and history, a community of faith since 1936
Hayes Barton United Methodist Church was established on December 6, 1936. The Reverend Leon Russell was our first pastor. Our 107 charter members originally assembled in the old Hayes Barton School (now Underwood Elementary). In December of 1937, a building site for the new church was purchased at the corner of Fairview Road and Stone Street for $3,500. Formal opening of the new church building occurred on Sunday, September 10, 1939.
In 1955, ground was broken for a larger sanctuary which would replace the “little church in the pines.” This is our current place of worship, which underwent a total renovation in 2009, along with a new building addition completed in 2016.
The mission woven in: Christ, Community, Compassion
We desire for all our thoughts, decisions, and actions to be shaped by the love of the Father, the way of Jesus Christ, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Core Initiatives:
- Strengthen faith development and fellowship among children and youth through a robust family ministry program.
- Sustain our foundation by strategically investing in capital and human resources for enduring growth and impact.
- Foster and cultivate a church home that makes all feel welcomed as we worship and come to the table as one community.
- Invite lifelong spiritual growth by developing opportunities for education, formation, and contemplation.
- Enhance missional outreach through a relational approach that fosters dialogue and introduces diverse avenues for service.
What makes Hayes Barton distinct
It was 90 years ago that the original charter members joined together to lay a foundation for a place of worship and service to God.
Today, we’re a congregation of over 3,000 members, and we continue to grow each year into a community of faithful people, a place where we can be shaped, filled, and poured out to live as disciples of Christ.
Safer Sanctuaries
We screen, train, and supervise everyone who works with children, youth, and vulnerable persons, and we use an independent, confidential reporting system. Our full policy is public.
