where we've been
Vancouver United Church of Christ has been at the forefront of progressive theology and radical welcome in the Vancouver area for over 130 years
early days
Initially organized in 1891 as “The Pilgrim Congregational Church” by a group of Vancouver people with a desire for a liberal church home, it held its services in the Knights of Pythian Hall.​
In November of 1905, the church re-energized and reorganized itself as "First Congregational Church." Land was purchased at 14th and Main Streets, and the original church building’s cornerstone was finally laid on May 15, 1910.
The congregation worshiped in that building until the late 1950s when the decision was made to relocate.
growth and change
In 1959, our iconic building was designed to gather our community while evoking the spirit of God in a cathedral-like setting. Some view the church as a dove, while others view it as an ark. It was in this deeply symbolic building that we adopted the name "First Congregational United Church of Christ (UCC) of Vancouver" after joining the newly-formed UCC denomination.
today and beyond
In recent years, we have been at the forefront of issues such as climate justice, marriage equality, treatment of immigrants, and just peace. We see these as integral parts of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and are committed to seeing that message brought to our community.
In the early morning hours of May 25th, 2016, an arson fire consumed the western end of the building. The fire destroyed the roof’s iconic stained glass window as well as the sacristy.
With a refurbished sanctuary and a renewed sense of purpose, we officially changed our name to Vancouver United Church of Christ in November 2023. Today, we are a place of safety and refuge where all people can worship God without fear.