Highlands United Methodist Church, Birmingham

Highlands United Methodist Church, located on 20th Street South in Birmingham’s historic Five Points South neighborhood, is not only a spiritual home for many but also one of the city’s most architecturally distinctive landmarks. Completed in 1909, the church was built in the Spanish Renaissance Revival style-an uncommon sight in Birmingham-which continues to draw the admiration of worshippers and visitors alike.

Highlands United Methodist Church began on December 2, 1903, with a small congregation meeting at Phillip Alosi’s Palace Market-the site of today’s sanctuary. After acquiring the land, the church commissioned a design first attributed to Stanford White and later completed by P. Thornton Marye. Construction began in 1907, marked by the appearance of a rainbow during the cornerstone ceremony. The first service in the completed sanctuary took place on March 14, 1909.

Highlands has grown not only in structure-with an educational building added in 1924, designed by Bem Price, and a significant renovation in the early 1950s-but also mission. Under the leadership of Pastor Mikah Hudson, the church today is an open, affirming, and inclusive community. Highlands proclaims itself a beacon of hope and a sanctuary of grace, extending a heartfelt welcome to all-regardless of age, background, identity, or circumstances.

Rooted in the teachings of Christ and energized by a spirit of love and service, Highlands United Methodist Church invites everyone to worship, wonder, and discover God’s transformative grace. Whether you come to pray, seek connection, or simply admire its architectural beauty, Highlands stands ready to open its doors-and its heart.