Our History

The United Church of Bennington was born on February 23, 1975, when the Bennington Presbyterian Church and the United Methodist Church came together by a majority vote of the two congregations.  Services continued to be held in both churches, alternating every six months.  After several years of this arrangement, it became evident that only one building was needed.  In September 1978, the United Church of Bennington would find a permanent home at 222 North Nelson.  As of May 5, 2009 the church had 143 active members and many active individuals who are not yet members. 

One Constitution and By-Laws was formed from the United Methodist Book of Discipline and the Presbyterian Book of Order.  The Parish Council, the governing body, consists of twelve members, who also serve on one of the four Commissions:  Christian Stewardship, Christian Nurture, Christian Witness & Mission, Christian Community & Worship.  Many projects have been accomplished these past 33 years:  New furnaces and air-conditioning for the Pastor’s Study, Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall; new hymnals; handicap accessible chair-lift, carpet; pew cushions; a new pastoral residence; and metal siding on the church.  Technology was upgraded with an electronic piano and sound system.  In 2008 the church added a multimedia projector and screen to become more in line with the ‘digital age’.

Current activities:  A garden project; Sunday School offerings for the Heifer Project; annual community Memorial Day dinners; operating the funnel cake stand for the annual rodeo; summer lakeside services; confirmation classes; United Women With a Mission who serve our church and community in numerous ways; Men’s Breakfast monthly; Health and Wellness activities monthly including a Health Fair, Wii health activities, and distribution of garden produce; welcome baskets for new community members; love baskets for needy families; local missions; an annual mission trip; and many more activities. The most beautiful part of the United Church of Bennington is the feeling of family among the members as they learn about God, serve him, and worship and work together.