Our Story

Toward the end of the nineteenth century, Swedish immigrants came to Washington, CT seeking employment. Work was available in town, and soon there were several Swedish families who put down roots here. By 1888, these people were ready to establish their own church. They bought land by the Shepaug River and their church was dedicated the Sunday before Christmas 1889.

For nearly 135 years, Salem has been at work worshiping God and serving the community and the world from this small town in Connecticut. Sunday schools, Lydia Circles, Smorgasbords, and Julottas have dotted our history. Pastors and youth pastors have come and gone. Members and friends have come and gone. We are no longer a church of Swedes, but a diverse people from different backgrounds and with different experiences. Our congregation has expanded from a community of believers from Washington, CT to a gathering of people from around our region in northwestern Connecticut.  We have moved from a church on the river to our current location on the hill.

What has not changed however, is the goodness of God at work in this gathering of people. God has bound us together as a community and called us to serve neighbors both near and far. Come and be a part of the Salem family! We welcome you!