The New Paltz United Methodist Church has roots that go back to 1786, when the first Methodist circuit riders came to town. These men came, preached, led singing, then continued on to other communities. By 1824 there were enough people in this area to form a regular circuit which included what is now Modena, New Paltz, Ardonia, Clintondale and Highland. 1840 saw the first Methodist Episcopal Church in town, built on the corner of Main and Church Streets. Though there were years that were so lean some people thought the church might close its doors, by 1870 they were remodeling and they moved so as to face Church Street, selling the portion of the land facing onto Main Street. In 1894 a violent winter wind did great damage to the premises.
In 1923 the Rev. J. Robert Halmshaw was called to New Paltz. A charismatic man, the congregation grew under his leadership, till they outgrew their original building. In 1924 a building committee was organized, and a plot of land on the corner of Main and Grove was purchased. Construction was begun in 1928.
The cornerstone for the new Methodist Episcopal Church was laid on January 10 1929. On June 20 of that year the dedication service was conducted, and in November of that year the church received the donation of the Wicks Memorial Organ for its congregation.
That November also saw the start of a great tradition: the Black Diamond Anniversary dinner. For a church in a new building fund raisers were needed to cover expenses. How about a dinner for the community? The proceeds could be used to purchase coal for heating the sanctuary. Thus, the name BLACK DIAMOND came about. The church was obviously as interested in its civic duties then as it is now, and so the decision was made to hold this dinner on Election Day.
The menu has changed little over the course of 90+ years. Then as now the main course is roast beef with all the trimmings, with homemade pies for dessert. We have since added vegetarian and vegan entree options to be more inclusive of dietary preferences and needs. Fresh ingredients, prepared lovingly for all who come, the New Paltz United Methodist Church continues to feed all who come.
Many church members and staff have worked on this dinner with enthusiasm through the years, but none more so than Myron Ronk, a beloved associate pastor who was a local resident and who sold more tickets for the dinner than anyone. His name was added to the title of this dinner in recognition of his long years of service.
A number of years ago the church switched from the traditional idea of two seatings to continuous service, allowing people to come anytime in the three hours of serving, at their own convenience. We also moved from “family style” service, where the plates heaped with food were placed on each table, getting cold as people ate, to buffet service so that people could count on seconds that were still hot.
New Paltz United Methodist Church will once again be in the kitchen cooking up a delicious meal on Tuesday November 3, Election Day. We encourage you to go to the polls that day, then reward yourself with a good meal. Though we left the “black diamonds” behind long ago, the money raised is still used to heat the sanctuary. If you can’t stay and eat and share in community, meals can be prepared to go. We will be serving from 4:30 to 7:00 pm.
NOVEMBER 2020 NOTE: Due to Covid 19, we have had to cancel our cooking this year. However, we would love to have you join us in a virtual celebration on Tuesday, November 3, Election day. We will host a ZOOM gathering. Join any time 4:30-7:00 be in conversation with others stay as long as you want perhaps meet new people – how long have you been coming – why named Black Diamond – how does dinner get put together – who peels the potatoes or cuts the meat – have no idea how it will work – let’s give it a chance
It will be fun! Donation $10 via online giving or send to church. Now, more than ever, we need your support! Contact us for the ZOOM link.
