As a congregation of Christ’s people, we are called to demonstrate and share God’s word of love, peace, mercy, and justice with all those whose lives we touch and welcome them into Christian fellowship. We will continue to grow in our journey of faith as we follow and serve our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Established by first and second-generation immigrants to the UnitedStates, our congregation was organized on December 12, 1858, as St. Paul GermanEvangelical Church. The first worship services were held humbly in homes of its founding members.
The first church building was dedicated on November 6, 1859.
In 1934 the Evangelical Synod of North America (our denomination) united with the Reformed Church in the United States to form the Evangelical andReformed Church.In 1957 the Evangelical and Reformed Church merged with the Congregational Christian Churches to form the United Church of Christ. We have remained a UCC church ever since.
Our current church building was dedicated in 1953. A quickly growing membership with large families, in addition to an increased demand for church programs and activities, necessitated the construction of the church’s educational building in1965. We recently celebrated the 35th Anniversary of our Austin pipe organ, dedicated in 1982.
Today, St. Paul UCC continues to fulfill its mission in a way that honors its traditions and rich history, while also striving to meet the ever-growing spiritual needs of people today. We aim to blend the past with the present in a way that is meaningful and inclusive.
For our youngest worship attendees, the Pray Ground (in the chapel, next to the sanctuary) offers a quiet space for children and their families to retreat to when desired, without having to separate from the worship service. Books, activities, and snacks are provided for what can be just a short break, or how you spend your entire worship time.
This intimate gathering space is where we host coffee hour after worship, our monthly POI luncheon, and many fellowship meals for various church groups. Its fireplace was recreated with materials from the old parish house fireplace—one of many unique pieces of our church history.
In the basement of the Education Building—perfect for large, informal gatherings.
Offers great classroom and meeting space for church groups and outside community functions
One of our most sacred spaces, this outdoor space offers a great opportunity to enjoy and appreciate God’s natural creations.
Hide yourself in God, so when a man wants to find you he will have to go there first.