Mayflower's History

Mayflower Church carries the heritage of two distinct congregations into its ministry and outreach today—Mayflower and Faith Church. Mayflower Community Congregational Church (UCC) began in 1925 as a missionary endeavor of the Minneapolis Congregational Union. Its first building was in the new town of East Richfield, at the corner of Diamond Lake Road and Stevens Avenue. On May 6, 1925, a charter group of 32 members organized the congregation. A name was chosen, bylaws were prepared, and officers were elected. In 1935, the church built a Spanish-style sanctuary.

The church grew rapidly and became one of the strongest congregations of the denomination between Chicago and the West Coast. By 1947 official membership had reached 1,919. Plans were made to move the congregation to a larger facility across the street.

The present sanctuary, administrative unit, dining hall, and kitchen were built in 1974-75, completed in time for the Church's 50th anniversary celebration on May 6, 1975. The former church building was sold and now houses the Museum of Russian Art.

Faith United Church of Christ was started in 1920. Its building was completed and dedicated in October of 1930. Mayflower Church celebrated its merger with Faith UCC on February 7, 1993.

Mayflower's true strength lies in the people who bring their individual talents and gifts to the community.