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The UMC in Austria
Methodist work in Austria was begun in Vienna in 1870. Initially, the Methodists had the right to a «familial practice of religion» only. But when they were granted more freedom in 1920, they soon established several new congregations and a children’s home. The worship services and Sunday Schools were full. But soon, a very painful era dawned. In 1945, the Methodist Church in Austria had to be reorganized. In spite of their own distress, the Methodists helped countless refugees, which had come into the country. As a result of this service, new congregations were formed in refugee camps. In 1951, the Methodist Church was recognized by the Austrian state. Today, openness toward seekers of all generations and countries are typical characteristics of the Church. Because of this, in practically all congregations, people from many different nations gather, and worship services are sometimes translated into several languages. In Vienna, there is also a lively English-speaking church that was founded in 1978. As a result of this basic openness, new people find a spiritual home in the UMC again and again. Although small in number, it plays an important role in the ecumenical movement. And finally, the widely known and respected «Zentrum Spattstrasse» in Linz provides innovative and important social and pedagogical services for children and youth from all over Austria.
Statistical Information
Population: 8.93 millions
Area: 83,879 km2
Capital: Vienna
UMC Churches: 7
Professing members: 633
Active Clergy: 8
Origin: 1870
Website: www.emk.at
(August 2022)
Celebrating God’s Love - Giving Courage
The 94th Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church in Austria met at Linz UMC from May 18-21, 2023.
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Celebrating the love of God
From May 26-29, 2022, the 93rd session of Austria Provisional Annual Conference took place in Salzburg.
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What do we teach and how do we teach?
The Annual Conference meeting in Austria had to be postponed in May – as in all other countries of Central and Southern Europe. Nevertheless, there are interesting things to report about how the Methodists are doing in Austria in the current situation. An online study day on October 10, 2020, provided an opportunity for joint discussion.
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