St Paul's Community Church

1800s

Saint Paul’s Community Church has been part of the Plattsmouth community for more than 130 years. In 1893, the Evangelical Synod of North America sent Reverend Jans to Plattsmouth to begin a new ministry.

On May 1, 1893, he and a small group of believers formed Saint John’s Evangelical Church, which was officially chartered later that year on December 3.

As the congregation grew, a Constitution and Bylaws were adopted in 1895, and the church was renamed Saint Paul’s Evangelical Church.

Just two years later, on November 21, 1897, the church building was dedicated, establishing a permanent place of worship in the community.

1900s

Throughout the early 1900s, the church continued to develop. A parsonage was purchased in 1905, and despite challenges (including damage to stained-glass windows during World War I) the congregation remained strong. Improvements such as expanding the basement and upgrading facilities in 1930 reflected ongoing growth. In 1939, following the union of two denominations, the church became Saint Paul’s Evangelical and Reformed Church. Over the next several decades, additional updates were made, including sanctuary renovations, a new parsonage, and the addition of a canopy over the front entrance.

A significant transition came in 1963 when the church joined a broader movement of unity and became Saint Paul’s United Church of Christ, formally incorporating in 1964. In the years that followed, the church expanded its ministry spaces, including the construction of a Fellowship Hall in 1979 and continued interior renovations. The church remained committed to its mission into the modern era. In 1991, an updated Constitution and Bylaws were adopted.

2000s to Current

Beginning in 2020, the congregation launched a three-year renovation, restoration, and revitalization initiative to renew both the building and the life of the church.

In 2022, after prayerful consideration, the congregation voted to disaffiliate from the United Church of Christ. Shortly after, on November 20, 2022, the church adopted its current name: Saint Paul’s Community Church.

On May 1, 2023, Saint Paul’s celebrated 130 years of ministry. Today, the church continues to build on its rich history rooted in faith, strengthened by community, and committed to serving future generations.