Unity was founded in 1889 in Kansas City, Missouri, by Charles and Myrtle Fillmore. After Myrtle used prayer and affirmations to heal lifelong ailments, her friends became interested in how she accomplished the healing. The Fillmores published their first spiritual publication in 1889, and over time the Unity movement grew from small prayer circles in living rooms to the worldwide movement it is today.
In 1919 the Fillmores bought 58 acres of land about 15 miles southeast of downtown Kansas City. Originally intended as a getaway for Unity workers, the area grew into a working farmstead called Unity Farm. In 1953 the area was incorporated as the township of Unity Village, which continues to be the home of Unity World Headquarters.
Many of the original teachings from the Unity founders about prosperity, healing, and the creative power of our thoughts have now been explained scientifically. The Fillmores were truly spiritual pioneers. Over the years, students who learned from the Fillmores established study groups and churches around the world, now numbering more than 600.
The Unity Movement
The seed for Unity of Kalamazoo was planted by Miss Amy Moffett, who moved to Kalamazoo from Chicago for the express purpose of establishing a Unity Center. Rev. Moffett had studied under Unity founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore. Miss Moffett received her Certificate of Ordination in May 1922, and was officially ordained in July 1923. She held Sunday services and weekly classes at her home on Dutton Street for almost 40 years, after which time meetings moved to various locations.
In 1976, the Board of Directors approved purchase of the first church home owned by Unity of Kalamazoo, a small church on Fairfax Avenue. By 1979, the congregation had outgrown that building, and moved to 910 West Main in the historical district, where it remained until 2004.
A church-wide visioning determined that the vision for Unity of Kalamazoo’s ministry was no longer supported by the lovely, but dated structure on West Main. This resulted in moving to our current location at 1204 Whites Road.
Our current facility is fully accessible, has a spacious kitchen, fellowship hall, dedicated youth ministry space, multi-age appropriate space, nursery, and well-designed office space in addition to the sanctuary with seating capacity of just over 200. The Unity Labyrinth was completed in 2018.