Olivet College

Founded by Congregationalists, Olivet College is a private liberal arts college located in south-central Michigan. The college was the first in the country by charter to accept women and persons of color. Its more than 900 students participate in a unique educational experience known as the Olivet Plan. As part of this effort, students are engaged in both classroom and practical programs incorporating real world experiences with lectures and service learning.  The College’s commitment to providing access to a comprehensive and diverse learning environment is reflected in all aspects of the Olivet Plan. The aspirations of Olivet College are advanced in the College’s vision: Education for Individual and Social Responsibility.

Piedmont University

Piedmont is a private liberal arts university founded by Congregationalists and based upon the Judeo-Christian tradition.  The Judeo-Christian tradition comprises the humane values upon which Western Civilization is based. It promotes concern for others and the acceptance for individual responsibility that are essential for ethical conduct and citizenship. Through fostering understanding and acceptance of this tradition, Piedmont University strives to further develop the individual’s personal growth through self-understanding and the ability to lead and work effectively with others.

The American Congregational Association (Congregational Library and Archives)

“The Congregational Library and Archives are administered by the American Congregational Association, a non-profit organization founded May 25, 1853. The 1853 ACA charter stated that the organization was incorporated “for the purpose of establishing and perpetuating a library of religious history and literature of New England, and for the erection of a suitable building for the accommodation of the same, and for the use of charitable societies.” It was felt that the latter should be done or the original Puritan literature would be lost.  The Congregational Library now holds 225,000 items documenting the history of one of the nation’s oldest and most influential religious traditions.” (from their website).

The Pilgrim Center for Reconciliation

“Some say it is too early for reconciliation, some say it is too late for reconciliation, we say it is always time for reconciliation.” Dr. Arthur Rouner, founder.  The Pilgrim Center for Reconciliation recognizes that conflict has marked human history causing pain, trauma, bitterness, and division between individuals, communities, and nations. Cycles of conflict create both brokenness and despair. Their work calls them to places of historic and contemporary conflict with a unique experience of reconciliation to awaken hope and healing in wounded lives and divided communities. Through retreats, courses, and other mediation efforts they create safe spaces where individuals and groups are gently invited to experience repentance, forgiveness, and restored relationships, empowering them to rebuild trust and strengthen the social fabric of their community, all in the name of Christ.