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Here’s a more conversational version that keeps the story warm and engaging while honoring the history:

It all started with a small group gathering in a class led by Helen Stigler in Lynnwood, Washington. When Helen stepped down, Reverend Bob Wasner—who was serving as minister at Everett Unity at the time—jumped in to help lead the group. Before long, people began feeling the pull to create something more permanent: a church in Lynnwood. Bob encouraged them to connect with his assistant, Reverend Gerri Weeks, and that’s where things really began to take shape.

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In September 1981, the group found a home base at Edmonds Community College under Rev. Weeks’ leadership. Just six months later, in March, excitement was already building. A letter went out saying, “We are well on our way toward the purchase of a church building on the corner of 56th and 238th.”

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Not long after, that small but mighty group of 46 people purchased a building in Mountlake Terrace. It had previously been used for refugee housing and needed a lot of work—but that didn’t stop them. The members rolled up their sleeves and did it themselves: plumbing, kitchens, painting, clearing brush, digging trenches—you name it. Leading much of that effort was a man lovingly known as “Famous Amos.” By July 1982, they were ready to hold their very first service in the transformed space.

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People could feel something special happening. As one reflection from that time put it, there was a “vitality and dedication and love” that everyone noticed—especially the newcomers who kept showing up.

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Later that same year, Rev. Weeks resigned, and Reverend Grover Thornsberry stepped in as interim minister. Then in August 1983, Rev. June Miller—who had once been crowned Miss Alaska—gave her first talk as the new minister. She was followed in 1984 by David Evans, who, as people liked to say, “thought like a metaphysician, but preached like a Baptist.” In 1988, Ann Thomas took over leadership.

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Soon after, the community faced a tough decision: to sell their building. When they moved out, they even carried most of the pews with them—leaving just four behind—and set up in a temporary space: a dance studio. One member later laughed, remembering what it was like to have church surrounded by mirrors, boas, and sequined costumes.

The years that followed required a lot of flexibility. The congregation met wherever they could—dance studios, hotels, even the Hotel International on 196th. At one point, a manager reassured them there was only a “very slight chance” their meeting room would be turned into a sushi bar. Meanwhile, children’s programs happened anywhere space could be found: motel rooms, hallways, lobbies, and parks.

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Through it all, the community kept growing—especially in spirit. As one person said, “We had to grow consciousness in order to get ready for the new building.” That inner work paid off. In October 1996, they settled into the Martha Lake Community Center, where they stayed until finally moving into their own new home in 2003.

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It wasn’t always easy. There were financial hurdles—like raising an extra $50,000 in just 60 days—along with construction challenges, sewer issues, and even redesigning plans to protect salmon in a nearby stream. But each obstacle seemed to bring people closer together. As it was written, the church “only grew in community,” living out their motto: “Come see what faith can do!”

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In 2011, Rev. Ann retired, and the search began for new leadership. The community was clear about what they wanted: a visionary leader who could inspire connection, growth, and spiritual depth. Later that year, Rev. Mary Omwake was selected as Senior Minister.

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After her retirement, Rev. Dr. Richard Loren Held was unanimously chosen to serve, beginning in September 2013. Alongside him was his spouse of more than 20 years, Matthew Wilson, who served as Music Director and Office Manager. 

 

Those years brought vibrant growth. The church launched Wee Care Academy, a nonprofit daycare that served up to 85 children a day and employed 18 teachers before COVID. They successfully refinanced their property twice, built strong relationships with lenders, and became part of Unity Worldwide Ministries’ branding program. They also protected 5.5 acres of nearby wetlands, joined the Earth Care program, and achieved Level C recognition in 2019.

The church was also an early recipient of a LEAP grant, helping bring to life SoulGreens—an eco-conscious vegetarian restaurant rooted in Unity values.

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Dr. Richard and Matthew welcomed a wide range of distinguished guests over the years, including Bishop John Shelby Spong, Dr. Joan Borysenko, Marianne Williamson, Rev. Dr. Barbara King, Rev. Dr. Temple Hayes, Daniel Nahmod, Jamie Lula, Tina Malia, and many others.

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In June 2024, Dr. Richard concluded his service as Spiritual Director. The community celebrated both him and Matthew with gratitude, honoring their contributions and wishing them well as they moved on to new chapters.

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On January 15, 2026, Rev. Angie Keyes began her role as Senior Minister. She brings a lightness of spirit and a heart-centered approach to Unity teachings. As she continues to grow into her ministry, the community joins together in support, nurturing a thriving, love-filled spiritual home.

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