First United Methodist Church

Framingham, MA, 1961 by Bastille Halsey

This unique A-frame church houses the Beacon of Hope ministry (formerly the First United Methodist Church of Framingham) and was built as a replacement to their original meeting house on Elm Street in Saxonville. The prominent site at the corner of Water Street and Brook Street was suggested by one of the women at a church sewing circle. Originally overlooking a rolling pasture, the building now stands above an extensive community garden for parishioners.

This style of church was common among suburban congregations in the mid 20th century as the A-frame construction provided an affordable, contemporary solution for a traditional high roof nave. Tucked within the structural grid are a series of stained glass triangles.The single story building surrounding the church houses classrooms and a community hall. While the rhythmic windows and white painted brick relate back to its modern sanctuary, the low, horizontal form is meant to connect the structure to its suburban setting.

Sources:

“FRM.1153 First United Methodist Church of Saxonville”, Massachusetts Historical Commission, 06 June 2015.

“History of Beacon of Hope Church”, Beacon of Hope United Methodist Church of Framingham.