“This Sunday’s Worship Topic at First Unitarian” a sign proclaims. The First Unitarian Society of Denver stands before you a testament to history and community. Founded not in Denver but much earlier this congregation has a rich legacy. It moved to this beautiful Romanesque Revival building in 1958. The building itself is a stunning example of architecture. It was originally built for the Plymouth Congregational Church between 1893 and 1899. Architects Balcomb & Rice and Varian & Sterner designed it. The locally quarried Rhyolite stone is striking.
The First Unitarian Society of Denver is more than just a pretty building though. It’s a place deeply involved in Denver’s social justice history. Think about it. This very building was the site of Colorado’s first same-sex wedding ceremony. This happened back in 1975. This was before same-sex marriage was legal in Colorado. The ceremony took place after a marriage license and a civil ceremony in Boulder County. The First Unitarian Society of Denver’s commitment to equality is legendary. They’ve championed LGBTQ rights. They’ve supported African-American communities. They’ve worked for immigrant rights. They’ve stood up for countless others. The Denver chapter of the Congress of Racial Equality even started in their basement.
Members of the First Unitarian Society of Denver were instrumental in exposing redlining. They participated in progressive struggles including women’s suffrage and the Black Lives Matter movement. They provided shelter for the homeless. They’ve worked with Denver’s Black Lives Matter chapter. They continue to act on their core principles. These principles promote the inherent dignity of each individual. They call for reaching out to the marginalized and advocating for the voiceless. This is evident in their recent actions. They provided sanctuary for Jeanette Vizguera. She is a mother of four facing deportation.
The First Unitarian Society of Denver is more than just a place of worship. It’s a community center. It’s a beacon of hope. It’s a living embodiment of its values. It’s a place where people gather. They gather to worship. They gather to support each other. They gather to work for a better world. The First Unitarian Society of Denver. A place of enduring faith and unwavering commitment to justice. A true Denver landmark.