Established in 1880 as the Methodist Episcopal Society, Arlington Methodist Church holds the distinction of being the oldest church in Arlington. The church’s rich history began with meetings in the back of the A.D. Maxwell General Store on Main Street. By 1885, two adjacent lots were acquired for a parsonage and church building. The original church was eventually replaced, and the current brick structure’s cornerstone was laid on November 16, 1919, with the dedication occurring on September 26, 1920. 
In the fall of 2022, Arlington Methodist disaffiliated from the United Methodist Church and aligned with the Global Methodist Church on January 1, 2023. Despite denominational changes, the church remains committed to its mission of making disciples and serving the Arlington community. 
Worship Services
• Sunday Worship: 9:30 AM
• Truth Trackers Sunday School: Following the worship service
• Fellowship: Immediately after the church service
Pastoral Leadership
Pastor Jo has been leading Arlington Methodist Church since 2019. She is an ordained elder in the Global Methodist Church and serves as the Presiding Elder for the South Dakota Southeast District.
Beyond her pastoral duties, Pastor Jo is the Chaplain for the Arlington Volunteer Fire Department and EMS, providing spiritual support, comfort, and guidance to first responders and community members during emergencies and challenging situations.
Her passion for teaching, evangelism, and missions has taken her on multiple mission trips to Haiti, where she has contributed to community development and faith-based outreach. Additionally, she serves as an adjunct Anthropology/Sociology professor at the University of South Dakota, blending her academic knowledge with real-world ministry.
Community Involvement
Arlington Methodist actively participates in community outreach, including involvement in the Arlington Ministerial Association and support for programs like the Arlington Backpack Program, which provides pre-packaged food to children in need. The church also offers food assistance through a pantry located within its facilities.
🧥 The Clothing Closet (New Ministry)
• The Clothing Closet is a community-focused ministry that provides free, gently-used clothing to individuals and families in need.
• Open to the public during designated hours or by appointment through the church office.
• Donations of clean, gently-used clothing are accepted year-round.