OUR STORY
Welcome to Pilgrim Church!
At Pilgrim Church, our story is a tapestry woven with threads of faith, justice, and community. We are a congregation that believes in the power of belonging and the transformative nature of love. Our journey is not just a reflection of our past but a living, breathing testament to our commitment to inclusivity and justice.
From our humble beginnings, we have grown into a vibrant community that embraces diversity and champions social change. Our faith is not static; it evolves with us as we strive to make a meaningful impact in the world. We invite you to be part of this ongoing narrative, where every voice is valued and every story matters!
Our Journey Through Time
1957
Where It Began
1957 - 1959
Early Leadership & Formation
Under the leadership of Rev. Phillip Gregory and later Rev. Elmer Windisch and Rev. Charles Helsley, the young congregation begins worshiping, organizing, and imagining what this new church could become.
1959
Growth & Stability
1961
A Defining Decision
1964
Putting Down Roots in Carlsbad
1964
Establishing Roots and a New Chapter of Leadership
The congregation purchases 1.47 acres at the corner of Monroe and Chestnut, establishing a permanent home in Carlsbad. This decision anchors Pilgrim’s future and expands its vision for ministry. Around this time, the Rev. Gordon Baker is called as Pilgrim’s first full-time minister. With experience in church building and leadership, he helps guide the congregation into its next major phase and its lasting identity for the coming decades.
1965 - 1967
Building the Sanctuary
Members contribute time, energy, and resources to create a space that reflects both faith and community. The Sanctuary building is completed and dedicated in September of 1967 and stands even today as a testament to shared vision, sacrifice, and hope.
1968 - 1975
Establishing a Community Presence
1976
Investing in Families & the Next Generation
Seeing a need for childcare for working families and single parents, the Pilgrim Children’s Center broke ground led by the efforts of Jackie Wrench to meet that need and to invest in the next generation. The PCC continues to operate and serve families in the Carlsbad area after 50 years.
1982
A New Chapter of Growth & Transition
The congregation calls Rev. Jerry Stinson to be the next head minister of Pilgrim UCC. Bringing a balance of pastoral, academic, and social sensibilities Rev. Jerry inspired a new generation of Pilgrims further toward a progressive expression of faith that welcomed questions, doubts, and activism in the community.
1990
Growing Together
As our congregation grew, so did our commitment to social justice. The 1990s marked a period of active engagement in community outreach, as we worked to address many important issues and causes, including becoming officially “Open and Affirming” to LGBTQ+ persons.
1998
Building Awareness Through Rememberance
Partnering with other organizations Pilgrim took on the responsibility of hosting the World AIDS Day Memorial as well as displaying portions the famous AIDS Quilt to remember those lost and to raise awareness for continued research and treatment for those affected. This was a very deep and personal cause for many involved and was a wonderful expression of the congregation’s commitment to the community.
2004
Passing the Torch & Fanning the Flame
Pilgrim Church undergoes a significant transition in both leadership and identity as the Rev. Madison Shockley was called to Pilgrim. This era was defined by a renewed dedication to inclusivity and equality.
