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In the 1970s, it became clear to a group of United Methodists in Fountain Hills that the new community needed a United Methodist Church. Layperson Charlie Thompson wrote letters and made phone calls to the United Methodist Conference to try to get a church started, but since there were not many people in Fountain Hills in the late 70s, it was deemed impractical. In the meantime, several couples began meeting in homes, more United Methodists moved to Fountain Hills, and the group grew enough to begin meeting in the conference room at the Community Bank and the Kiwanis building.

In 1987, the fellowship received their first part-time minister, Rev. Buddie Johnson, and began meeting in Suite #203, 16929 Enterprise Drive. Early in 1988, Rev. Don Henrich began as pastor and the church received its Certificate of Organization March 20th, 1988. The church was named the First United Methodist Church of Fountain Hills.

Rev. Jim O’Neal served as pastor from 1988 – 1991. Rev. Ed
Grant came in 1991 and that same year, an office building at 17210 Amhurst Dr. was purchased and remodeled to serve as a new worship space. The church officially changed its name to The Fountains, A United Methodist Church, and Pastor Ed continued with a variety of creative ministries, including the “Inspirations Coffee House” created with Chuck Marohnic. When Rev. Bert Lancaster retired to Fountain Hills in 1997, he assisted Rev. Grant for the next year.

Rev. Mark Lansberry came to the Fountains in 1999. In 2001, two residential lots were purchased at the NW corner of Glenbrook and Fountain Hills Blvd and rezoned for our church. In 2003 MTV Construction Company began building our beautiful 8,000 square foot sanctuary. A house, already on the property, was remodeled for church offices and classrooms. Worship services were held next door at the Fountain Hills Middle School while the sanctuary was built. The first service in the new sanctuary was November 30, 2003 and the church was consecrated Feb. 8, 2004 with Bishop William Dew.

Rev. David Felten, our current pastor, came to the Fountains in 2006. Rev. Kathleen Stolz, our volunteer associate, joined the staff in 2007. Together they continue to lead The Fountains in ministries of reaching, touching and teaching by living and sharing the story of Jesus.