Learn More about Us

On Sunday, September 30, at 11:20, visitors and guests are invited to gather at the back of the sanctuary for an orientation to Pilgrim.  This is a great time to ask questions about our congregation.  Maybe you wonder what we believe, how we worship, where we "fit" in the landscape of American religious organizations.  Or maybe you wonder what kinds of things we do in the community or what kind of religious education we offer for children and adults.  Or maybe you're looking for a church and wonder whether this is the right place for you.  Whatever your questions, you are invited into the circle.  Whether you are looking for a relationship with our congregation or are merely curious about what goes on here, grab a cup of coffee after worship and come back into the sanctuary.  There will be a small circle of chairs at the back where we will meet.

Committed to Higher Education

Pilgrim Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, like many other Congregational churches, values higher education.  Congregationalists started many schools of higher education and were especially committed to schooling for those to whom education was denied.  The large stained glass window in the front of our sanctuary pictures buildings from several colleges founded by our Congregational forbearers.

Pilgrim is located close to the University of Minnesota-Duluth, the College of St. Scholastica, and is not far from Lake Superior College and the University of Wisconsin-Superior.  On Sunday, September 23, the 2nd hour Adult Education event will feature the Rev. Cynthia Coffin-Langdon, campus minister at UMD.  Come to learn more about Pilgrim's ties to United Campus Ministry. 

Civility

Pilgrim Congregational Church has a rich heritage in promoting participation in civic dialogue.  Our forebearers helped shape democracy as a governance that required citizen input and fostered lively discussion among people of differing viewpoints.  As a congregation, we encourage civility and kindness in all conversations, especially during this season of political debate.  Civil dialogue, respect for various points of view, and a willingness to engage in difficult conversations have been themes in recent Sunday sermons.  Our Social Justice Ministry has been promoting Civility in public meetings and candidate forums as well as school board meetings and other community events.  On Sunday, September 16th, Pilgrim will host a training session for People of Faith: Starting the Conversation about the proposed marriage amendment.  The training will take place from 11:30-12:30 and child care is available.

Pilgrim is an Open and Affirming Congregation of the United Church of Christ and by congregational vote in May, 2010, took a stand for marriage equality.  Addressing the current proposed amendment is one way of following through on the congregation's commitment to justice and equality.

People of Faith training on Sunday is open to visitors and guests as well as members of neighboring communities of faith.

Pilgrim is currently seeking volunteers to encourage civility in public forums and debates scheduled during September and October.  If interested, contact Anita Stech at monardamom@yahoo.com.

Gathering Sunday September 9

Life at Pilgrim has its seasons and September 9th marks the beginning of another program year.  Worship is at 10:00;  Sunday school classes begin for children ages 4-Middle School; and Brunch for everyone at 11:20.

We are planning on three classrooms in the Sunday School--one for children ages 4-1st grade; one for children 2nd-5th grade; and a middle school class. 

Music is a big part of our life as a congregation: the Pilgrim Choir sings under the direction of Bret Amundson and Rachael Kresha will be directing Bellissimo.  Plus the 2nd-5th grade Sunday school class will begin a unit using recorders! 

Stay after worship on September 9th for our traditional brunch--it's a good time to catch up with Pilgrim friends and get to know acquaintances a little better.