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1630: An early experiment in democracy |
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Pilgrims sign the Mayflower Compact.
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The Congregational churches (forebears of the United Church of Christ), founded by the Pilgrims and other spiritual reformers, spread rapidly through New England. In an early experiment in democracy, each congregation is self-governing and elects its own ministers.
The Congregationalists aim to create a model for a just society lived in the presence of God. Their leader, John Winthrop, prays that "we shall be as a city upon a hill ... the eyes of all people upon us."
For a list of 20 notable UCC Firsts, check out the More Options menu at the bottom of the left-hand column on this page.The United Church of Christ (UCC) is a union of four principal traditions: Congregational, Christian, Evangelical, and Reformed. Each of these traditions has left a mark on U.S. religious and political history, often in the lead on issues of peace, justice and equality.
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