PilgrimsHistory - Billings Pilgrim Congregational Church

Pilgrim Congregational Church is located in the heart of south side Billings, Montana. Pilgrim was built September 11, 1910 and was originally named First German Congregational Church. There were 12 charter members who gathered in various homes before the first church was built in 1914. The first sunday school was formed in 1912, and a youth group followed the next year. In 1936,a new church (and our current church) was built after the old wooden church was moved across the street to what is now our parking lot. Services were held completly in German until 1943, when they began to hold both English and German worship services. In 1957, the church voted and decided to become a part of the United Church of Christ. In 1958 at the congregational meeting the name of the church was changed to Pilgrim Congregational, partly because many of the younger members where marrying outside the German tradition so English became more dominant. Also, several members felt that the name would suggest to people that only German people were allowed, but they wanted people to know that everyone is always welcome. The church also expanded on the east wing in 1971, and the parsonage was rebuilt across the street. Our church continues to grow, we continue to make improvements, and we welcome everyone to join us as we vow to carry on the traditions of our founders that GOD's Kingdom might grow and prosper, not only in our hearts and souls, but throughout the world as well.