History | First Congregational United Church of Christ

: Church Sanctuary

“The Inspirational Big White Church: God is Still Speaking!
A group of people met with Rev. Alfred H. Betts and Rev. Lot B. Sullivan on February 25, 1823, to organize the Congregational Church in Berlin Heights. Rev. Betts remained pastor until 1829. In 1847 work was started on building a new church. The church was built with a porch on the front, which was later enclosed making the interior somewhat larger. A steeple was added a number of years later. The original pews had doors on them and at the time of the building, members paid from $15 to $60 for their pew.

In 1830 nine men of the church organized the Congregational Society. In 1849 several members contributed $500 for the creation of Western Reserve University, now known as Case Western Reserve University. In recognition of their generosity, the university trustees granted a “charity” scholarship to any male student living in Berlin Heights or the township who was pursuing a liberal arts degree. This scholarship will continue for the existence of our church.

The church building has suffered a couple of disasters in its lifetime. It was struck by lightening in 1918 and had storm damage in 1944, but with our congregation’s strong spiritual beliefs our church continues to reach out to our community spreading the word of God.

Our worship is enhanced by the music of our Bell Choir and Worship Choir. We take pride in our Sunday school worship hour for our young children, youth, and adult bible studies to further nourish our spiritual lives. We continue to grow with the Holy Spirit in our hearts.