Twenty-eight Unitarian women. That’s how it all began. In February 1897 these women met to discuss forming a Unitarian Society in Montclair. Their main goal was a church school for their children. They even started preparing to teach. This vision birthed the Unity Church of Montclair in October 1897. The Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Montclair’s commitment to religious education for children and youth started then.
The Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Montclair isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to a rich history. A history of progressive thought and social justice. Reverend Arthur Hastings Grant became the first minister in 1898. Both the church and its school were thriving. He was followed by Reverend Leslie Sprague in 1902 a true builder. He spearheaded the Unity Club bringing in speakers rarely heard in Montclair. He even served as Vice President of the local Women’s Suffrage Organization. The congregation’s commitment to progress was undeniable.
In 1902 a plot of land on Church Street was purchased for $4000. In just two and a half years the current sanctuary was built. The congregation paid $19050 for it. It was dedicated in January 1905. The double chair pews. Still in use today. They cost $1.65 a pair.
The Unity Forum started in 1909. It brought prominent speakers to Montclair. Think William Jennings Bryan Clarence Darrow W.E.B DuBois Robert Frost Mother Jones Margaret Sanger and Booker T Washington. Imagine the conversations those events sparked. In 1913 the church doubled in size. Transept bays a chancel social room kitchen kindergarten and office were added.
A fire ravaged the church in 1919. It destroyed the roof requiring expensive repairs. The community rallied raising $32000. Services were temporarily held at the First Congregational Church. The Unity Institute organized in 1920 possibly to aid in the fundraising. It brought renowned performers to Montclair including Marian Anderson Jascha Heifetz Yehudi Menuhin Lilly Pons and Paul Robeson.
The Collegiate Pulpit a program established by Reverend Edgar Swan Wiers ran from 1922 to 1988. It featured influential speakers including Langston Hughes Reinhold Niebuhr Bertrand Russell and Rabbi Stephen Wise. This commitment to intellectual discourse continued for decades.
Through multiple ministers and renovations the Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Montclair persevered. It faced challenges such as internal disagreements regarding leadership. It also adapted to changing times. It embraced social justice initiatives. The church’s evolution demonstrates its resilience and unwavering dedication to its values.
Today the Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Montclair stands as a beacon of inclusivity and social action. Its history echoes in its walls. It continues its mission of fostering spiritual growth and community engagement. It remains a vital part of Montclair’s fabric. A place of worship a center for social change and a vibrant community hub. A testament to the enduring power of faith and collective action.