About Our Church

About Us
Greetings! We’re so glad you’re interested in learning more about the Keene Valley Congregational Church (KVCC), a United Church of Christ congregation. Our Sunday worship begins at 10:00 AM, and we offer numerous mission-driven groups and ministries that meet both online and in person.
We are a small but vibrant church, committed to showing up in love and compassion wherever God calls us to be. Explore our ministries, events, and ways to connect—we can’t wait to hear from you.
Guided by Love & Justice
Open and Affirming Congregation
Adopted October 7, 2018
We joyfully welcome LGBTQIA+ individuals into the full life of our church. We recognize the historic harm caused by exclusion and declare our covenant to oppose discrimination and work toward the beloved community of God’s realm.
Creation Justice Church
Adopted October 1, 2021
We believe the global environmental crisis is a profound spiritual challenge. As a Creation Justice Church, we commit to healing the Earth, advocating for climate justice, and expanding our compassion to all living beings.
Support for Refugees & Immigrants
Adopted October 22, 2024
Through the Adirondack Friends of Refugees and Immigrants (AFRI), an outreach of KVCC, we welcome and support immigrants and refugees. AFRI fosters friendship, advocacy, education, and cultural celebration while nurturing a deeper appreciation for diversity in our region.
Our History
June 1828
On the first Monday in June 1828, a group of residents met at the home of Thomas Dart in Keene Center to organize the first Congregational Society, to “promote the interests in religion.” A constitution was drawn up and officers elected. A committee was also selected to oversee the building of a meeting house. For several years, services were held in the homes of various residents.
1875
The foundation of the church building was started by Eli Crawford, along with the help of trustees Otis Estes, Philo Estes, and Norman Dibble.
Sept. 1879
On September 12, 1879, the church building was completed. In 1928, the entire church was renovated to its current form and a steeple with a clock tower built. In 1930, the Van SantvoordRoom wing was added to the memory of Anna Townsend Van Santvoord.
1928
In 1928, the entire church was renovated to its current form and a steeple with a clock tower built. In 1930, the Van SantvoordRoom wing was added to the memory of Anna Townsend Van Santvoord.
Today
As we approach our 200th anniversary of the church's founding, we aim to provide a more comprehensive history, including a list of all the ministers who preached, performed marriages, baptisms, and funeral and memorial services over the years.