Allen Memorial Methodist Church sits on the scenic campus of Oxford College. Founded in 1841 by renowned missionary John Allen, Allen Memorial’s main sanctuary has been a part of the Oxford community for more than 100 years. The education building, nursery and fellowship hall, often referred to as Lovern Hall, were built alongside the main sanctuary in the late 1960s.

The church is led by Rev. Max Vincent. Moving to the Oxford community in the summer of 2011, Vincent has been head pastor at Allen Memorial for four years. He conducts church service Sunday mornings as part of the offerings of Allen Memorial.

The church also hosts a Sunday school, beginning at 9:45 a.m., as well as a traditional service, beginning at 11 a.m. Vincent also serves as an instructor in the Humanities department at Oxford College, teaching about the history of the Methodist Church.

Still intact today, Allen memorial is a median for both the college and the local community. Establishing roots in the mission’s field, this church believes in community outreach. Community programs such as Newton Reads and American Heritage are just a few to be hosted within their four walls. Other programs they host are the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts Club; the GED program, which is held year round; and a 12-step program, which is held on Monday and Friday evenings.
Putting their hands to use, the church’s congregation also partners with other churches in a community-wide program called Family Promise. This program, on average, supports 15 families per week. Every quarter, these families are hosted financially by a church and given room and board until they are stable and able to make it on their own. However, their community work doesn’t stop there.

Allen Memorial also has close ties with Oxford College. Always open to students throughout the academic year, they also offer music scholarships to students who are majoring in any music related field. All students are encouraged to apply.