The First United Methodist of Osage, Iowa, was organized by the Reverend W.P. Holbrook, less than 100 years after the founding of Methodism. Rev. Holbrook walked up to 25 miles each day, covering his circuit. He preached in three different places every Sunday--and during the week he split rails, chopped wood and peddled books.
In 1857, Reverend John Wood became the pastor of the Mitchell and Osage circuit. Construction of a new church was begun, but it was never completed. The present church, on Main Street, was completed in 1874, and was dedicated debt free when Bishop Merrill made a public appeal for the last $3,000 at the dedication ceremony. In 1875-1876 a new parsonage was built next to the church.
In 150 years, a total of 53 different pastors have served the Osage parish; well known for its "pancake and whole hog sausage day," and their
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Ardelys Newton (Finance Committee chairperson) and the Rev. Dr. J. Samuel Subramanian stand next
to a sign proclaiming the church's Sesquicentennial celebration which was
held June 4, 2006
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The church celebrated its sesquicentennial in 2006. The celebration ceremony was held on Sunday, June 4, with the Reverend Dr. T. Kevin Lagree, as guest speaker. Several other former pastors at the Osage church also spoke.
The present pastor of First United in Osage is Reverend. Dr. J. Samuel Subramanian, a native of India. He has been pastor for two years. His wife, Thelma is pastor of a sister church in Riceville, Iowa.
Eight youth were confirmed in 2005, and a new confirmation class is in progress with six youth. During the past two years 22 new members were baptized -- current membership is 274.