Our History

The Pilgrims who came over from England on the Mayflower in 1620 founded the Congregational Churches in America. As these churches spread across the continent, their meetinghouse democracy contributed to the establishment of the democratic foundations of our country.

On June 9, 1855, a group of seven Christians, all of whom favored abolishing slavery, met in the Union School of Berea, a small brick building west of the present property. The meeting of this group (smaller than that of the original disciples!) provided the impetus for a church that has multiplied many times in numbers and has historically been a vital spiritual and humanitarian force in Berea.

By 1872 the membership numbered 94, and a new building was erected on the present church site at Seminary and Church Streets. The building has undergone several additions and renovations to provide adequate Sunday school classroom, meeting rooms, and office space. The 100-foot steeple was added in 1955, the church’s centennial year. Today, members volunteer funds to keep it lighted as an expression of faith, in memory of loved ones, or to mark special observances.

The First Congregational United Church of Christ of Berea, which from its inception has been a totally self-governing body in the Puritan tradition, voted in 1957 to become an affiliate of the newly formed United Church of Christ that brought together the Congregational Christian and Evangelical and Reformed Churches. This action caused members to examine their faith and their ministry. With commitment to the UCC, renewed dedication to the fellowship of the local congregation and to the ministry of Jesus Christ resulted.

The constitution was revised by members and adopted in 1998, encouraging the Vision Statement by encouraging the congregants to identify and utilize their spiritual gifts in the ministry of the local church and the Church Universal.