Boca Grande United Methodist Church is the oldest church on the island. On January 10, 1910, the Rev. D.B. Sweat was sent to minister to the needs of the growing community. Six months later, the church was chartered with 17 members as Boca Grande Methodist Episcopal Church, South. From the beginning, it has maintained year-round weekly worship services. By 1914, it had 60 adult members, 44 children, and 7 Sunday school classes. In the 1920s, a weekly newspaper called the Boca Grande Banner was published, a Junior League formed, and a Ladies Aid Society helped those in need and supported missionaries. During the 20th century, 60 pastors served the church, and two went on to become bishops. The church continues its legacy of mission and ministering to an ever-changing and diverse island community. In 1998, it adopted the Lighthouse as a symbol of Jesus Christ, the true light, shining through the church into the world and guiding, helping, and transforming lives.