Church History and Organization

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Puritans seeking a more local autonomy and a simpler church service founded the first Congregational churches in New England in the 1600's. Over the next two centuries, Congregationalism was the most popular form of worship in New England, particularly here in Connecticut.

On December 13, 1892, the Fairfield East Conference met in Mechanics Hall on the corner of White Street and Howe Ave. in northern Huntington (now Shelton) and organized the Shelton Congregational Church to serve the new and growing industrial community. Initially, the church had thirty five members, but membership quickly grew to over two hundred. A church was planned and built on a lot at the corner of Coram Ave. and Hill Street. On June 20, 1895, the church building was dedicated.

As a Congregational church, we have an independent structure within an association of other Congregational churches. Since 1957, Shelton Congregational Church has also been part of the United Church of Christ, a reunited body of protestant churches including Congregational and Evangelical.

Church affairs are managed by members of the church. Many activities are governed by committees, and church members are encouraged to take part in committee work and decision-making. Major issues are decided by vote in meetings of the full congregation.