After the Territory of Minnesota was established a young missionary , Reverend Edward Duffield Neill, went west from Philadelphia to establish the region’s first Presbyterian congregations. In 1849, he founded the First Church in downtown St. Paul. On Christmas Eve in 1855, he created a second congregation, which he named House of Hope, envisioning it as a sanctuary for those seeking solace and spiritual rest.
In 1914, under the leadership of Dr. Henry Swearingen, the two congregations united, and a new church was built at 797 Summit Avenue to house the merged community. The building, designed by architect Ralph Adams Cram, is a striking example of Gothic architecture, filled with meaningful symbolism. Its design, featuring intricate stained glass windows, detailed carvings, and ornate decorations, provides a deeply inspiring atmosphere for worship and contemplation.
Dr. Swearingen’s tenure marked a period of distinguished leadership. As both a national church moderator and local minister, he left a lasting impact. Other notable leaders include Irving Adams West, who served from 1943 to 1969, overseeing the addition of an education wing and other facilities, and Calvin Whitefield Didier, who succeeded West and led the congregation until 1993.
