The roots of Union Avenue Congregation go back to 1868 when John Norton invited missionaries to his home in Alpine Township. In 1896 the Grand Rapids church became an official congregation of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (now called Community of Christ). During the ensuing years they met at different locations, primarily the Women’s Club on Cass Avenue. When membership grew to 300 people, the congregation decided they needed a “real” church. So two lots on the corner of Division and Zenos were purchased in 1921 and the building began. In September 1921, the Grand Rapids Press reported the church intended to develop a park as well as a building.  The basement was finished, but unfortunately economic conditions did not allow further progress. In 1946, they sold the building on Zenos and went back to the Women’s Club. This was only temporary, however. Plans were made for a new church building on the corner of Union Avenue and Winchell St.. Their plans came to fruition when contractor J. B. Topp completed their new church home in 1951.

Tremendous growth occurred in the following years resulting in two new congregations being born – Northview on the north end (1968) and Grand Valley on the southwest side in Grandville (1970). As we look back through the years, we cannot help but be thankful for the hard work and spirit of the people in the Grand Rapids church. They overcame difficulties and setbacks, but still moved forward thanks to the power of the Holy Spirit. We work in their shadow as we continue to minister to the neighborhood that surrounds the church.

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