United Parish of Winchendon
A Brief History
The roots of The United Parish run deep through the town of Winchendon. Our Methodist roots date back to 1796,
Baptist to 1783 and  Congregational to 1762. The earliest days of Methodism in our town can be traced by going
back through the history of our congregation. The same can be said of our Baptist and   Congregational strands
.
Members of The First Congregational Church in Old Centre founded the meetinghouse in which we currently
worship.
Our Baptist branch goes back through The First Baptist Church and other Baptist Churches to the earliest Baptist
services held in our town in 1783.
Our Methodist roots are traced to October 1796 when Mr. Eben Arnold opened his home to Lorenzo Dow, a
devout Methodist. A Monument to Mr. Dow can be seen on the right side of River Street as one travels toward
Royalston.

Today, The United Parish remains a vital part of the larger community of Christian Faith here in Winchendon. We
find strength through our faith, our heritage and our ecumenical spirit. It is our hope you will consider joining with
us to serve the Lord Jesus, the Messiah.
Pastor F. Calvin Miller