URGENT UPDATE: The historic Christ Church United property in Lowell, Massachusetts, has been sold for $2.7 million to the North Reading-based All People Church. This significant transaction was announced just today by Region Commercial Real Estate, as the CCU congregation prepares to find a new place to worship.
The sale marks a pivotal moment for the CCU, which has seen its membership dwindle from several hundred two decades ago to a mere 15 members today. A final gathering, known as the Service of Leave Taking, is scheduled for January 18, 2024, at 2 p.m., at their current location at 180 East Merrimack St.. The congregation plans to “nest” at First Congregational Church later this month.
CCU officials cited a “perfect storm” of factors leading to their decline, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, rising maintenance costs for the historic building, and demographic shifts that have seen many members move away from the Greater Lowell area.
The .79-acre property, now owned by All People Church, has undergone extensive renovations in recent years. Originally constructed in 1846 as the High Street Congregational Church, it has a rich history of community service and inclusivity, notably becoming an Open and Affirming congregation in 2001, welcoming LGBTQ+ individuals.
Ben Bolotin from Region Commercial expressed gratitude for the opportunity to assist CCU in this transition, stating, “The board and their members took phenomenal care of the church property in recent years with extensive improvements that will carry the property into the future for its new owners.”
The All People Church, led by Pastor Josh Roberts and his wife Stephanie, has been operating out of a temporary location in Lowell for the past few weeks. The church, which serves a congregation of around 1,000 members at its North Reading location, anticipates launching services at the newly acquired property on February 8, 2024. Roberts emphasized that the building represents more than just real estate; it is a “tool to spread light in the community.”
Roberts added, “Our prayer and objective is to serve this city through things like feeding the homeless, outreach events, community, and music events.” The All People Church boasts a diverse membership, representing 57 nationalities, with services conducted in multiple languages, including Portuguese and Spanish.
As the CCU congregation looks towards a new chapter, the All People Church is set to embrace its mission of community service and inclusivity in Lowell. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
