Mayflower Church adopts new identity as Creekside UCC

On Sunday, the Mayflower Community Congregational UCC expressed gratitude for its 100-year-old name. The Rev. Sarah Campbell noted that "people are grateful for what the name has meant for them and their families." She highlighted how the name is linked to significant life events and experiences within the church community.

However, the historical associations of the Mayflower name have prompted a two-year exploration by the church as part of its commitment to racial justice. On November 3, a vote confirmed that the congregation will change its name to Creekside United Church of Christ in the coming months.

Kate Andrews van Horne led Mayflower's "What’s in a Name" committee, which facilitated discussions around this decision. She stated, “We can’t ignore the fact that a name like Mayflower is associated with historical issues around colonization, genocide, and other forms of oppression.” The process began with 100 potential names before narrowing down to ten, with Creekside emerging as the preferred choice.

The motion passed with 85% approval. Andrews van Horne mentioned that even those initially opposed accepted it after seeing strong community support: “They trusted the process, their friends, [and] community members.”

Campbell provided pastoral care during this transition and observed no signs of decreased support or attendance due to the change. Instead, she noted growing engagement within worship services and membership classes.

The new name emphasizes an earth connection and recognizes nearby Minnehaha Creek's landscape. Campbell remarked it signifies "claiming the Northland and leaving New England."

Church leadership plans legal updates in early 2025 while engaging in rituals for grieving and letting go through worship. This approach was suggested by Rev. Jim Bear Jacobs from Minnesota Council of Churches.

In 2025, Creekside UCC will celebrate its centennial under its new identity. Campbell reflected on this transition as "the beginning of something," emphasizing reparative work ahead.

Andrews van Horne expressed hopefulness about future partnerships: “Now as we go out...we felt it was important to take ownership...and change it.”

Campbell hopes sharing their journey inspires others: “We’ve been transformed by this journey...moving into [the] future is very hopeful.”