GET TO KNOW US We are Old Otterbein. We are old, Est. 1771. We are new, always adapting to be relevant to a changing city and community.
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Old Otterbein was founded in 1771 as the German Reformed Church of Harold's Hill. Our sanctuary dates to 1785, and is the oldest continuously used church in Baltimore, and the oldest building on its original foundation in Baltimore. By 1800, we became the Mother Church of the Church of the United Brethren in Christ under the leadership of Bishop Philip William Otterbein, where we became known colloquially as "Otterbein's Church" and later, "Old Otterbein" to denote our historic nature. Through mergers in 1946 with the Evangelical Association and 1968 with the Methodists, we became "United Methodist."
Today, we are a vibrant congregation that believes in radical love and radical hospitality. We are a Reconciling Congregation (LGBTQI2A+ affirming); passionate about social justice; racially, age, educationally, socio-economically, and gender diverse (with all groups included in leadership at all levels); and adore fellowship and relationships. Join us to see if we are right for you. |
Why should you join us? As new member, Mike, says, "Do you know why I love this church? Because you make God fun."
Worship With Us
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Worship
Worship is held at 10:30am on Sundays in our 1785 Sanctuary. It is also live-streamed on Facebook. In case of inclement weather or other changes, please check Facebook for the latest updates. We follow a traditional pattern of gathering, sharing the Word of God, Responding to that proclaimed message, and sending forth into the world. We utilize a variety of music from the 1989 United Methodist Hymnal; The Faith We Sing, and Worship & Song hymnal supplements; plus music from Songs of Zion and other resources. We primarily use the 1897 Niemann Organ, piano, and sometimes additional instruments. Masking & Covid-19 Masking is currently optional on our campus. Please stay home if you are ill. What to wear People come in all shapes, sizes, and comfort levels. You will find people dressed in their "Sunday Best," and people who wander in before a ball game wearing jerseys and jeans. All we ask is that you wear clothes that make you feel good about yourself. |
All Persons are Welcome
All persons are welcome here. We have activities and ways for children and youth to be involved through service, children's messages, activities, and Sunday School. We have places for musicians, actors, public speakers, and those who want to serve by doing. We have a spot for those who want to share hospitality and those who want to sit and be in the presence of God. Wiggles and movement are encouraged, and neuro-diverse persons are fully incorporated into the life of the congregation. Women and Gender-diverse persons are involved and in leadership at all levels. Approximately 50% of our congregation self-identifies as BIPOC, and approximately 25% of our congregation is openly in the LGBTQI2A+ community. There is a place for you. Where to Park 
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