Here at Hyattsville Mennonite Church, community and inclusivity intertwine. Hyattsville Mennonite Church started in 1952. Young adults from various Mennonite communities founded it. They had moved to the Washington D.C. area. Voluntary Service volunteers played a big role. Many stayed and entered professional life.
Initially, services were held in Georgetown. Then, the church moved to Woodridge. In 1959, it found its permanent home in Hyattsville. It was then known as First Mennonite Church. By 1982, the name changed to Hyattsville Mennonite Church.
Hyattsville Mennonite Church has always focused on service. It actively engages in local projects. They support the homeless and hungry. They aid adults with developmental disabilities. The church sponsored the International Guest House.
This church describes itself as Christ-centered. It welcomes everyone. It commits to peace and justice. Beauty and hospitality matter here. Hyattsville Mennonite makes Mennonite traditions relevant. It embraces the cultural setting of the D.C. area.
The church faced challenges. In 2005, the Allegheny Mennonite Conference addressed membership guidelines. Concerns arose about members in same-sex relationships. Hyattsville was made a nonvoting member. Members could not hold elected positions.
But change came. In March 2015, the Allegheny Mennonite Conference voted to reinstate Hyattsville. The resolution emphasized living with theological disagreements. The Confession of Faith guides but does not discipline.
The Hyattsville Mennonite Church is a diverse church. It affirms and welcomes all identities. The congregation includes people from all over the U.S. and countries worldwide. Many languages are spoken here. These include Spanish, French, and Swahili.
A major rebuild finished in 2013 improved accessibility. A lift connects the main and basement levels. An all-gender bathroom with a shower was added.
In 2021, the church had 148 members. It belonged to the Allegheny Mennonite Conference. Cynthia A. Lapp served as the minister.
Hyattsville Mennonite Church continues to evolve. It remains committed to its core values. The church embraces inclusivity. It seeks justice and peace. It welcomes all on their faith journeys. It stands as a testament to community.