History and Description

Clarendon Hill Presbyterian Church (CHPC) has a rich heritage benefiting from the merger of three churches:  the original St. Andrews Church of South Boston, the Union Square Church of Somerville, and the Trinity Church of Somerville.  We have been in our current location, near Tufts University, since the 1920s.  We are proudly Presbyterian, with roots in the Reformed tradition, and we seek to be a relevant presence in our community.  We value Bible-based preaching that helps us understand how to live more faithfully as Christians in a secular world.  Our church is a center for learning, sharing, and living our faith.  Having a church family and raising children in a spiritual home are important to us.

Diversity is a gift we celebrate and welcome.  We differ in age, country-origin, life experience, education, profession, politics; theological background and ideas; mission preferences and priorities.  We come from local neighborhoods, Great Boston, and the wider world.  Our community is composed of students, singles, couples, families; high school grads and PhD’s.  Some gather strength from traditional hymns and expressions of faith; others are open to new interpretations.  We range from King James Version to Inclusive Bible.  We are one in Christ.  We cherish our warm, respectful, inclusive, non-hierarchical community where each person’s contribution is important.

The Bible calls us to be one in Christ; therefore, inclusivity is at the center of our ministry.  We value the opinions of those with different backgrounds and faiths.  Our members come from diverse places and hold different opinions, but we are all committed to loving God and our neighbors and to learning from those around us.  All are welcome in our services and at fellowship events.  Our Communion table is open to all who are drawn to it, regardless of denominational affiliation.