First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple is a congregation with a glorious past, a vibrant present and a promising future. It is the oldest church in Chicago!  It was founded by Methodist circuit riders in 1831, six years before the City of Chicago was incorporated.  During its 175-year history, the congregation has gathered for worship in five buildings.  Its first services were held in the homes of its members. But in 1834 the growing congregation built a log cabin north of the Chicago River.