In 1992, Graham & Hyde was tasked with developing a long range master plan for a multi-phase worship complex for the First United Methodist Church comprised of a sanctuary, fellowship hall, educational spaces, offices, and a large multipurpose room.
The initial phase was completed in 1996 on 46 acres in west Springfield and included the Family Life Center which incorporated a multipurpose auditorium/gymnasium and educational facilities. The second phase, completed 10 years later, included a 1,500-seat worship space, atrium, fellowship hall, and ten additional classrooms. The second phase facility was blended with the existing Family Life Center to create a unified complex for the congregation. The main sanctuary is a state-of-the-art space that easily accommodates both contemporary and traditional worship services.
The planned future third phase for First United Methodist will consist of a chapel, additional classrooms, and recreational areas.