Pilgrim Congregational Church UCC

06/19/2026

🙏🏾 Prayer of Thanksgiving for Juneteenth

We give thanks to God for freedom and emancipation
of the enslaved people.

Cheated of their lives and livelihood by oppressors
beyond the pale of human rights and dignity.

Because of their skin they were deemed less than farm animals these African and African American people made in the image of the Divine, praying to God to loosen their chains.

We give thanks and praise to God for the full emancipation for these human beings.

From the shacks and plantations of Texas they sang:
“God, we thank you for saving our lives.”

“All persons henceforth shall be free”
were the words spoken in 1863.

Today we reinforce with thanksgiving God’s life, love and liberty.

From the depths of our hearts we cry:
“God, we thank you for deliverance.”

-Prayer excerpt by Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia A. Thompson
for Living Psalms 3rd Sunday after Pentecost, Juneteenth, 6/18/2023

👉🏾Read the full prayer here: https://ow.ly/HnEf50Zeu0M

👉🏾 Add your prayers to the People's Prayers for Peace: https://ow.ly/6Wwe50Zeu0N

06/19/2026

Join us on Friday June 26, 2026 at 2 pm for the Dedication of
The William Dewitt Coby Sr. Gymnasium and The Center Court Tribute Emblem Honoring West End Youth Basketball League founders Reverend Rudy Raber and William Coby
Friday, June 26, 2026 • 2:00 PM Pilgrim Congregational Church, UCC 826 Union Boulevard St. Louis, Missouri 63108
Accessible entry is available through the courtyard doors on Union Avenue. Additional parking is located behind the church.
For more than five decades, the legacy of the West End Youth Basketball League (1969–1976) has lived on in the lives of the young people it shaped. Through mentorship, discipline, teamwork, and unwavering belief in the potential of every child, Rev. Rudy Raber and Coach William Coby built far more than a basketball program—they built community.
On this day, we gather to honor their extraordinary leadership and the generations forever changed by their vision.
A brief dedication ceremony and time of fellowship will follow.
Important Accessibility Note
Although our gymnasium has been beautifully restored following the devastating May 2025 tornado, we want to honor the abilities and comfort of all former players, families, and friends.
• The dedication ceremony will take place in Goodell Parlor on the main floor.
• Afterward, all who are able will be invited to walk to the third floor gymnasium to view:
o The new Gymnasium Signage
o The Center Court Tribute Emblem
o The fully renovated gym floor
Please note: There is no elevator to the third floor.
We hope as many former players, families, and friends as possible can participate. ALL are welcome. No RSVP required.
If you know former players who may not be on Facebook, please help us spread the word.
“Every child who walks through these doors will know someone believed in them.” — Rev. Kevin D. Anthony, Senior Pastor of Pilgrim Congregational Church

06/18/2026

This Saturday, “Jazz in Protest”June 20th at Pilgrim Congregational UCC. One night only. Tickets $15.

06/16/2026

You are invited to attend on Monday, June 29th, 6:30-7:30 to be a part of this important meeting being held here at Pilgrim Church. Please plan to join us and be a part of this very informative event.

06/13/2026

06/12/2026

Check it out! A Call to Conscience has performances tonight, June 12th, June 13th and 14th at 7 pm at Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ 826 Union Blvd 63108