Open to all.
All are welcome here at Macalester Plymouth United Church! You can find us right next door to Macalester College in the Macalester Groveland neighborhood of St. Paul. We are a community of peace, love, and justice. We don’t claim to have all the answers, but we explore the questions together. We believe God’s love is big enough for everyone – and we mean everyone.
New to Mac Plymouth? The visit us page will tell you more!
What We Believe
At Macalester Plymouth United Church, we represent and welcome a wide diversity of theological and religious beliefs. We are committed to peace, justice, and love, all growing out of a deep Christian tradition.
We belong to two denominations: the Presbyterian Church (USA) and the United Church of Christ. Both are progressive Christian denominations that have pioneered movements for inclusivity, welcome, and justice. We support the mission and ministry of both denominations, and we are grateful for the resources and relationships provided by our dual affiliation. You hear a lot about division these days, which makes us even more proud to be the product of the union of four congregations over the years.
Below you can find more information about our faith and commitments.
Everything we do is grounded in our mission and values.
Open and Affirming / More Light Commitment
We welcome and affirm LGBTQ+ folks.
We are committed to peacemaking and working for justice.
Earth Care / Creation Justice Commitment
We care for the earth and maintain consistent sustainability efforts.
We are committed to antiracism and embodying equity.
Our History
Macalester Plymouth United Church was established with that name in 1968, but its history goes back much farther.
Plymouth Congregational Church was founded in 1858, and as the neighborhood changed and their membership began to dwindle, they began merger conversations with Macalester Presbyterian Church, established in 1887. The two congregations merged in 1968 to become Macalester Plymouth United Church.
Merriam Park Presbyterian Church was founded in 1884 and they welcomed Lexington Parkway Presbyterian Church (est. 1911) in 1969 to become Merriam-Lexington Presbyterian Church.
Merriam-Lexington Presbyterian Church merged with Macalester Plymouth United Church in 2000, and we have been one united church ever since. Historically, it’s much more common to hear about churches dividing than uniting, so it is a gift to have so many unions in our history.
How We Work Together
Our congregation is self-governing. Anyone can serve. Anyone can lead. We have the freedom to create programs and activities, serve the wider community and spend money in ways that meet make a difference. Our leadership board, called the Session, guides the congregation in collaboration with the staff. The Deacons provide compassion and support to members of the congregation in need. Together we discern God’s call and live out our faith.