Cambridge First Church of the Nazarene

“A church built on faith and resilience,” a passerby commented, gesturing towards the Cambridge First Church of the Nazarene. The Cambridge First Church of the Nazarene stands as a testament to a vibrant history. While its current location at 234 Franklin Street is relatively recent, the roots of the church stretch back to the earliest days of Cambridge. The original Cambridge Church, established between 1633 and 1636, held its first meetings near the corner of Dunster and Mt. Auburn streets. The congregation later moved to Harvard Square, occupying three successive meeting houses on the site of present-day Lehman Hall. The church has seen the likes of historical figures such as George Washington, who worshipped there in 1775. It also played a significant role in the framing of the Massachusetts Constitution in 1779. The church’s journey wasn’t always smooth. A period known as the “Arminian controversy” from 1805 to 1830 led to a split between Unitarian and Congregational Churches. Following this division, the Shepard Congregational Society emerged and met at the Old Court House, now the site of the Harvard Coop, before establishing its own building in 1831. The Cambridge First Church of the Nazarene ultimately found its current home on Franklin Street. This location, though not as historically significant as its predecessors, continues the church’s legacy of faith and community. The Cambridge First Church of the Nazarene has weathered storms both literal and metaphorical, adapting to changing times while holding steadfast to its core beliefs. It continues to serve as a beacon of hope and spiritual guidance for the community.