Upon the dedication of the First Methodist Church on September 19, 1954, "Colonel" Edward J. Baker once again illustrated his desire to better St. Charles. The church not only reflected his philanthropy, but also the great importance of religion in both Baker's life and in that of St. Charles. Baker dedicated the church to the memory of his parents, Edward and Martha Baker. Prominent members of the congregation in the 1840s, both had served the Methodist church in many ways.

The church itself, designed by Gray, Laz, and Mall of Geneva, cost $1,250,000. It serves as an example of the Classical Revival or Gothic architecture. (Read more on the St. Charles Public Library website).