As the village of Waunakee began its rapid growth, the Wisconsin Conference of the United Methodist Church chose to investigate whether there was interest in establishing a Methodist church. There was enough positive response for the Bishop to appoint a pastor; the first service was held in an elementary school September 9, 1990, and the official charter was granted for Crossroads United Methodist Church on March 29, 1992. After several years in rented facilities, land was purchased on the corner of Hogan Road and Arboretum Drive at a time when the development of the area was only a vision. A beautiful white, colonial-style church now sits on the knoll overlooking a growing residential neighborhood.
The doors of the new church facility were opened for the community on Easter Sunday of 2001, and continue to be open as Crossroads sought to serve the spiritual and physical needs of its members and the community. Mission activities have been important, both locally and far reaching through the global United Methodist Church. Christian education has been offered regularly on Sundays and through Vacation Bible Schools. Spiritual growth, service, and fellowship groups have become regular opportunities available to serve youth, men, women, or older adults. Especially notable has been a steadily growing musical program, with many varied participants: choirs, vocal and instrumental ensembles, soloists. Many special musical events and recitals have been heard in an inviting atmosphere.
This brief history of Crossroads United Methodist Church is continuing and retains the vision that has been clear from the ground-breaking, first shovelful ceremony: that this modest church, on a spacious site, was a beautiful space designed for use of His work, and dedicated to the glory of God.
Crossroads’ has been blessed by the guidance of the following pastors:
- Lawrence G. Patten – May 1990 – June 1993
- David R. Werner – July 1993 – June 1999
- Susan E. Bresser – Associate Pastor/Intern – June 1997-June 1998
- Paola Benecchi – July 1999 – June 2005
- Rachel S. Cobb – June 2005 – June 2008
- Sharon L. S. Cook – July 2008 to Present
