Our congregation members come from diverse backgrounds and beliefs. Typically, they’re searching for a non-traditional or progressive church community. Some have little or no religious background at all, some come from other religious denominations, and some are humanist, agnostic or atheist. Mixed-faith families who may have felt uncomfortable elsewhere can feel at home with us. If you're looking for an open-minded and loving congregation to encourage you on your own spiritual path, visit us in downtown Memphis this Sunday. We’ll nurture your spirit and work together to make Memphis, Tennessee, and the world, a better place.
Our Stories
Hear from some of our congregation members, in their own words.
Our Amazing Sanctuary and Setting
An architectural gem overlooking the Mississippi River in downtown Memphis
Our building, constructed from an award-winning design by noted architect and church member, Roy Harrover (1928-2016), features five floor-to-ceiling windows in the sanctuary that look out over the river. Harrover once explained, “The church architecture emphasizes a cardinal principle of Unitarian belief: the reason, logic, simplicity, and order of the universe as revealed in nature.” The beautiful structure and scenic views also make The Church of the River a popular venue for weddings.
Our church traces its roots to 1893, although it wasn't formally chartered until 1912, as the First Unitarian Church of Memphis. Edward Everett Hale, Unitarian minister and author of The Man Without a Country, was instrumental in influencing our first minister, Frederick Preston, to come to Memphis. In 1966, we moved to our current location on the Fourth Chickasaw Bluff of the Mississippi River and has become known as The Church of the River. Read more about our history from 1893-1983 and 1983-1993.
Click the button below to see an interactive timeline of historical highlights.
The purpose of this church shall be to promote the high ideals of a rational, progressive, and exalting religion, in the love of God and service to humanity, and to hold regular church services in this community. To this end, all activities of the church shall be conducted without distinction related to race, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, or previous religious affiliations; and the right of private judgment and the sacredness of individual conviction shall be recognized in all things. To join our church is to walk with other members of the congregation in the spirit of our covenant.
