The Isle of Hope United Methodist Church was organized December 18, 1851 on the mainland near the intersection of Skidaway and Bethesda Road, but was later moved to the Island. The site on Parkersburg Road was a gift of Dr. Stephen Dupon by deed dated June 29, 1859. The edifice was constructed from funds contributed by residents of the Island and the citizens of Savannah. The church remains the same as it was built with few exceptions. The straight-back pine pews are the original pews in the church at its construction.

During the War Between the States it was used as a hospital, ministering to the injured soldiers. Among those were 33 young volunteers from Effingham County who died and were buried in the Church yard. A contingent of Sherman’s Army used the church as a camp during his occupancy of Savannah and the original bell was melted to make cannon balls.

For 90 years of its existence the Church was a “Circuit” and was served by a part-time pastor, who also served other churches. During this time horses and buggies were tethered in the churchyard while services were held.

With the development of the Island in 1950 a full-time pastor was appointed. The Sanctuary was moved to its present location beside the road in 1957. The present wall lamps were installed at that time and the building was painted.

In 1983 a major expansion of the sanctuary was initiated. The planned expansion provided a vestibule and a new front porch, a vestibule between the sanctuary and the Cramer Building in the rear, and extension of the rear wall of the sanctuary 24 feet to allow for the addition of 9 pews. The construction progressed to the point that all furnishings including the original pews, the chancel rail, lamps and furniture were removed and stored. The reconstruction was well on its way to completion including a new copper roof when on February 22, 1984 the structure BURNED to the ground despite the heroic efforts of the Isle of Hope and Southside Fire Departments.

Plans for rebuilding were immediately begun and with contributions pouring in from all over the state and with the generosity of its members, the present structure was dedicated, free from debt by Bishop L. Fitzgerald on February 10, 1985. Out of the ashes has indeed come something beautiful for the Glory of God.

In 1998, thirteen years after the construction of a new sanctuary, another major construction project was planned. The congregation had once again outgrown the sanctuary, so it was expanded with the addition of  two side wings or transepts to seamlessly blend in with the existing architecture, increasing the seating capacity by 200. The sanctuary was also refurbished with new paint and carpeting and the installation of a new Rodgers organ. On April 2, 2000, Miracle Sunday, the renovation was dedicated free from debt by Bishop Richard C. Looney.

After more than one hundred and fifty-eight years, the Isle of Hope United Methodist Church continues to be a symbol of beauty and inspiration not only for those in the congregation but for the entire community. Throughout our past and into the future, Jesus is, always has been, and always will be our isle of hope in a world of hopelessness.