More than 190 years of faithful witness in Snow Hill. Bates Memorial United Methodist Church has been a steadfast presence in Snow Hill since the early days of Methodism on the Eastern Shore. Our story is one of resilience, God’s faithfulness, and a continued commitment to worship and community.
Early Roots
The seeds of our congregation were planted in the late 1700s and early 1800s as Methodist circuit riders brought the Gospel to homes, barns, and gathering places across Worcester County. In 1832, our first pastor was appointed, marking the formal beginning of organized Methodist ministry in Snow Hill. From those humble beginnings, Bates Memorial grew as a place where families gathered to study Scripture, sing hymns, and grow in faith.
The Fire and Rebuilding
Like much of Snow Hill, our church faced significant trials in the late 19th century. The great fire of August 8, 1893, devastated the heart of the town, destroying dozens of buildings including businesses, the courthouse, and our original church building. In the years that followed, the congregation persevered through the rebuilding process. Our current structure was completed in 1901, rising from the ashes as a testimony to God’s sustaining grace and the determination of faithful believers.
A Legacy of Worship and Service
Throughout our history, Bates Memorial has remained committed to:
- Traditional, Scripture-centered worship that connects believers to the timeless truths of God’s Word.
- Community involvement — serving as a gathering place during times of celebration, crisis, and everyday life.
- Making disciples — nurturing faith across all ages through children’s and youth ministries, mission efforts, and acts of compassion.
We have witnessed generations of families walk with Christ through seasons of joy and challenge — from horse-and-buggy days to the present.
Continuing the Mission Today
Today, as part of the Ocean Pines Snow Hill Cooperative Parish with Trinity United Methodist Church in Newark, we carry forward this rich heritage under the leadership of Pastor Keagen Brown. We remain deeply rooted in our historic faith while actively engaging our community — through downtown Snow Hill revitalization efforts (including the Main Street project), food assistance, youth missions, Vacation Bible School, and partnerships that bring vitality to our town.
Our building on East Market Street stands as a tangible reminder of God’s faithfulness across more than 190 years. Yet the true heart of Bates Memorial is not in the walls, but in the people who gather here — a multigenerational family seeking to love God and love our neighbors.
“I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” — Isaiah 43:19
We give thanks for those who came before us and look forward with hope to all that God will continue to do through Bates Memorial United Methodist Church.