Crossing the plains in their covered wagons, our pioneer ancestors carried their religious traditions with them.  On June 25, 1872, when the new town of Lodi was but three years old, nine Congregationalists met to establish the First Congregational Church of Lodi.  In similar fashion, on November 19, 1893, Disciples of Christ pioneers established the First Christian Church in this city.

As early as 1919, these two dynamic congregations contemplated a merger, in order to better meet the needs of their members and the community at large.  This idea was well ahead of its time and, in consequence, failed to become reality.  In a letter from the era, the pastor of First Congregational Church expressed disappointment that the merger couldn't go forward, but confirmed his confidence that a close, cooperative relationship would continue between the two congregations.

Exemplifying the movement toward unity that is now more visible among many denominations, and recognizing the similarity of spirit between the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), these two congregations merged on January 29, 1988.  A century after their individual establishment, the two congregations became one -- and now possess a richness of spirit that was not present before the union.  Because of this spirit, we are convinced that our best days lie ahead of us.  

Because of this merger, the United Congregational Christian Church brings to our community the strengths of two denominations woven into partnership to share a journey of faith, ministry, and worship.  It is this spirit of unity that identifies our congregation and reflects our commitment to proclaim the Good News of God's love as revealed to us through Jesus Christ.  We invite you to join us on this journey.