History

On June 5, 1852, in a one-room school in Green’s Village, eleven men and women gathered to consider organizing a Congregational Church. Denominational diversity could describe those early founders. Exactly how Congregationalism won the day is unclear because seven of the original eleven were Presbyterian, while the other four were Congregationalists.

From that eclectic gathering on a summer’s day, the First Congregational Church of Greenville began its ministry of Christian service to this now bustling western Michigan community.

God has always found a way to provide the remarkable intersection of time, place, and personalities to build the Church of Jesus Christ. The right people at the right time gathered on that summer day in 1852 to birth a reality from the embryo of hope. The faith, vision, and perseverance of those few have shaped the lives of countless thousands over more than a century and a half.

THE CONGREGATIONAL WAY

Congregational Churches are sometimes known as the “Church of the Pilgrims” after the small congregations of the early 1600’s. The people of these congregations moved from England to the new world in pursuit of religious freedom. From them, we inherited a wonderful spiritual heritage, one that is uniquely suited to our contemporary world.This is a tradition that has deep convictions based upon the Word of God as each person interprets that Word according to the dictates of conscience, under the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit. This naturally attracts men and women of genuine conviction, of adventurous faith, and of gracious regard for each other’s sincerity to the Congregational Christian fellowship.Since every Congregationalist possesses full liberty of conscience in interpreting the Gospel, we are a diverse group of people united under Christ. We believe there is strength in diversity and by it, there are unending opportunities to learn from each other and to grow in faith.

The Art and Practice of the Congregational Way

For a fuller introduction to Congregationalism, you may read or download The Art and Practice of the Congregational Way. Geared to introduce church members to Congregationalism, it is especially suitable for new member and confirmation classes, as well as church leaders.

Our Pastors Who Have Served Us Well

C. Edward Milam Current

Jason Dillingham 2017-2020

Ian W. Macdonald 2014-2016

Mike Haefner Associate Pastor 2008-2013

Jerry Jones 1996-2014

Mary Ann Sheldon Associate Pastor 1992-1993

Charlie Hall 1984-1994

William Donald, Interim 1982-1983

Kermit W. Dancy 1976-1982

Henry C. Schadeberg 1971-1976

W.D. (Bill) Wood Retired, interim 1971

James P. Sherman 1967-1971

Associate Pastor Earl F. Collins 1961-1969

Richard L. Ford 1954-1966

St. Clare Parsons 1911-1953

James F. Halliday 1906-1911

Anson B. Curtis 1900-1906

Frank W. Hodgon 1897-1899

Albert Marion Hyde 1894-1897

Jay N. Taft 1890-1893

James L. Patten 1866-1890

Charles Spooner 1854-1865

Stephen N. Manning prior to 1852-1854

History

THE CONGREGATIONAL WAY

The Art and Practice of the Congregational Way

Our Pastors Who Have Served Us Well

C. Edward Milam Current

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