The History of Mount Carmel United Methodist Church
“The Guiding Light on the Hill” since 1884

Since its founding in 1884, Mount Carmel United Methodist Church has stood as a beacon of faith, hope, and community in the Lake Shore area of Pasadena. Affectionately known as “The Guiding Light on the Hill,” the church has faithfully served the spiritual and practical needs of its neighbors for over 135 years.

The congregation marked this milestone anniversary with a joyful day of celebration that included a vibrant worship service featuring music from the church choir and praise band, a presentation from the Mount Carmel Child Development Center, and a special children’s Sunday school. Following the service, families enjoyed community festivities such as pony rides, a petting zoo, vintage games, and entertainment from a local magician—reminding all in attendance of the joy found in fellowship.

Mount Carmel’s impact reaches well beyond Sunday mornings. The church’s commitment to missions and outreach is the heart of its ministry. Locally, members serve meals at Sarah’s House in Odenton and the Seventh Day Adventist soup kitchen in Pasadena, support students through the Anne Arundel County Schools Back-to-School program, and contribute to organizations such as Arundel House of Hope, Winter Relief, and Be More Caring. Globally, the church supports United Methodist missions across the world.

In addition to its outreach, Mount Carmel continues to foster spiritual growth and community through cherished traditions. The church’s choir presents powerful Christmas and Easter cantatas annually. The Mount Carmel Child Development Center, which began over 35 years ago as a nursery school, now offers full-time daycare, preschool, and before- and after-school care. New ministries like “Girls Night Out” have also formed, offering women a monthly time for food, fellowship, and encouragement.

Rooted in a rich heritage, the church was built on land donated by the Linthicum family. In its early days, the sanctuary was lit by kerosene lamps and warmed by a wood stove. Music came from a reed organ operated by a foot pump, and members arrived by boat or horseback. Today, relics from those early days—including the original pulpit, sanctuary chairs, Bible, and silver communion set—remain in use, along with the historic stained glass “founders windows.”

As Mount Carmel United Methodist Church looks to the future, it does so with gratitude for its past and great hope for what God will continue to do in and through its people. With a legacy of worship, outreach, and faithfulness, the Guiding Light on the Hill remains a place where lives are changed, families are strengthened, and Christ is glorified.

Mount Carmel UMC is located at 4760 Mountain Road in Pasadena, Maryland.