INDIANAPOLIS — One of Indianapolis's most architecturally significant religious buildings, the 1904 Old Centro United Methodist Church on Massachusetts Avenue, has completed a three-year, $3.2 million restoration that has preserved the structure's historic limestone exterior and Victorian-Gothic stained glass while adding a modern community wing that doubles the building's usable space.

The restoration, funded by a combination of Indiana Landmarks Foundation grants, state historic preservation tax credits, and private donations from congregation members and community supporters, addressed significant structural damage caused by decades of deferred maintenance and a major roof failure in 2019.

"This building has served this corner of Indianapolis for 121 years," said senior pastor Rev. Eleanor Stephens. "Hundreds of thousands of people have been married, baptized, and buried in this sanctuary. The restoration ensures that it can serve the next 121 years."

The new community wing, constructed in a design that respects but does not imitate the historic church's architecture, houses a multipurpose event space, a commercial teaching kitchen, a youth room, and administrative offices. The spaces are available for community rental when not in use by the congregation — a programming decision the church hopes will make it a hub for neighborhood activities year-round.

Community Programming

The church plans to launch a community meal program in the restored facility, serving hot dinners to neighborhood residents on Tuesday evenings. A Wednesday morning community coffee hour will be open to all. The teaching kitchen will host cooking classes for youth and adults beginning in September.

Historic properties like Old Centro serve as anchors for neighborhood identity and economic vitality. Property owners and businesses on Mass Ave can explore digital resources through Best of Indianapolis, which features neighborhood guides and business directories highlighting the cultural assets of corridors like Massachusetts Avenue.