Unity Church: Where Faith and Community Meet

Unity Church, a diverse, warm, and loving congregation, was formed in the Spring of 2018 through the blessed merger of two Lutheran Churches ( ELCA -Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) in Wilmington, Delaware, Zion Lutheran and Spirit of Life Lutheran. Zion Lutheran Church was founded over 150 years ago on the east side of Wilmington. On December 3, 1848, a group of thirty-three German-speaking Lutherans gathered for services conducted by the Rev. Friedrich Walz. Zion was born. The church moved to its first building on Walnut Street in 1857. In 1865, Zion purchased Number One School at Sixth and French Streets. After 33 years, Zion laid the cornerstone for its Sixth and Jackson Streets building where it remained for 62 years.

Zion might have still been at that location had the State of Delaware not built I-95 in the early 1960's. Being moved from its property, Zion settled in the Neighborhood House until its next home, 2101 Lancaster Avenue, was finished in 1961. Zion was the oldest Lutheran congregation in Delaware and now continues its ministry with the former Spirit of Life congregation to worship God and proclaim the message of salvation in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Spirit of Life Lutheran Church (SOL) was formed in 1999 and was located on Concord Avenue in Wilmington under the leadership of The Rev. Clarence Pettit. Theirs was a friendly Christian community where all felt welcome. They were known across the area for the perfect spirited blend of Lutheran theology and African American worship music and styles. SOL’s aim was inviting others to learn and understand the enriching messages of eternal hope given to us by Jesus Christ through His words and deeds.

Today, Unity Church is a fellowship of believers who Serve Christ with Courage, Embrace Diversity, Nurture Community, and Advocate for Justice and Peace.At Unity Church ELCA Church, our mission is to empower individuals and families to grow in their faith and become active members of our community. We strive to love God, love people, and make a difference in the world.