Congregational Church sale marks new chapter in Grant

BY BECKY UEHLING

GRANT TRIBUNE Correspondent

A historic transition is underway for one of Grant’s oldest churches, as the United Congregational Church enters a new chapter while preserving its legacy and congregation. 

In the fall of 2024, the church board of the United Congregational Church of Grant met during a regular monthly meeting to address a growing concern: a shrinking and aging congregation. Faced with questions about the future of the church building, members expressed a desire to ensure the structure would be cared for while still maintaining their identity as a church family. 

At the same time, Golden Plains Mennonite Church of rural Perkins County was experiencing overcrowding and seeking a space to establish a new congregation. What followed was seen by both groups as a blessing. 

In July 2025, the two church boards reached an agreement to share the building for services and activities. After several months of worshiping side by side in separate services, the Mennonite congregation expressed interest in purchasing the building, while continuing to welcome the Congregational members and share the space through December 2027. 

In December 2025, the Congregational Church voted to approve the sale to the newly formed Church of God in Christ (Mennonite). The sale was finalized on Feb. 3, 2026. 

The new congregation includes approximately 25 families, bringing renewed energy to the building through worship and fellowship. Meanwhile, the existing Congregational church family will continue meeting indefinitely, maintaining its presence and traditions. 

The transition marks a significant moment in the long history of the church, which dates back nearly 140 years. 

The First Congregational Church of Grant was organized on Sept. 10, 1887, in the law office of Phillips and Batman. Ten people gathered under the guidance of Rev. J.A. Thome of the Congregational Church in Ogallala. Early services were held in Bond Hall on Central Avenue before moving to the courthouse after its completion. 

By the summer of 1888, the congregation began planning its first church building. The wooden structure was completed and dedicated Oct. 31, 1888. Over the years, the church continued to grow, adding a parsonage in 1889 for $129, expanding it in 1890, and forming a Ladies Society in 1893. 

Growth continued into the 20th century. A new parsonage was built in 1923 for $2,250, and by 1925, membership exceeded 100. The current brick church building began with the laying of its cornerstone on Sept. 26, 1926, and was dedicated in March 1927. 

The church remained an active part of the community for decades. A grand piano was dedicated in 1944, followed by the installation of a pipe organ in 1949. An education wing and kitchen were added in 1965. 

Beyond worship services, the church served as a hub for community life. It was known for its large choir and seasonal concerts, including performances of Handel’s “Messiah.” The Pilgrim’s Fellowship youth group hosted an annual chicken noodle dinner fundraiser for 43 years, ending in 2012. 

The Women’s Fellowship regularly hosted the Grant Rotary Club, while the building itself provided space for Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, 4-H clubs, and family services coordinated with Health and Human Services. It also served as a designated shelter during storms and school emergencies. 

In 2012, the church celebrated its 125th anniversary under the theme “Stepping With God Into Our Future”—a message that resonates strongly today as the congregation embraces change while honoring its past. 

As the building fills once again with worship, song and community activity, both congregations are moving forward together—rooted in history, yet looking ahead with renewed purpose.