BREAKING: The historic Christ Church United property in Lowell, Massachusetts, has been sold for $2.7 million to All People Church, a North Reading-based congregation. This urgent sale, announced just yesterday by Region Commercial Real Estate, comes as the CCU congregation prepares to move to a new location after dwindling membership.
The CCU, which once boasted several hundred members two decades ago, has seen its numbers plummet to just 15 members today. This significant decline has prompted the church to hold its final Service of Leave Taking on January 18 at 2 p.m., marking a poignant farewell at their longtime home located at 180 East Merrimack St.
In a statement, officials highlighted the challenges faced by CCU, citing a “perfect storm” of factors including the COVID-19 pandemic, rising maintenance costs, and a shift in community dynamics that led many members to relocate outside of Greater Lowell. Following the sale, CCU plans to “nest” at the First Congregational Church later this month, seeking a fresh start amid these turbulent times.
The newly acquired property spans .79 acres and has undergone extensive renovations in recent years. Originally built in 1846 as the High Street Congregational Church, this building has a rich history, merging with the First Unitarian Church in 1918 and becoming Christ Church United in 1969 after consolidating with two other churches.
Ben Bolotin of Region Commercial expressed gratitude for the opportunity to assist CCU during this transition. “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,” he stated.
All People Church, led by pastors Josh and Stephanie Roberts, aims to expand its outreach in Lowell. Currently, the church has been holding services in a temporary space at Tesco Bar on Middlesex Street, preparing for their inaugural service at the former CCU property on February 8.
“Our vision for the building is to serve as a tool to spread light in a community that has faced challenges,” said Josh Roberts. He emphasized the church’s commitment to engaging with the local population through initiatives like feeding the homeless and hosting community events. Notably, All People Church has a diverse congregation of around 1,000 members, with approximately 150 attendees regularly participating in services at their temporary location.
This acquisition marks a significant moment for both congregations, as CCU bids farewell to its historic site while All People Church prepares to embrace new opportunities in Lowell. With services translated into Portuguese and Spanish, Roberts highlighted their commitment to inclusivity, representing 57 different nationalities within their congregation.
As this story develops, the community will be closely watching how All People Church implements its vision for the future at this historic site. The emotional impact of CCU’s closure resonates deeply, marking the end of an era while setting the stage for a new chapter of hope and service in Lowell.
