The History of MCC Omaha

 In 1973 Rev. Bobby Sirico, then affiliated with the Seattle church, was asked, so the story goes, to plant churches in the Midwest.  His response was “no way,” it's hot, humid and the Bible Belt.  He then relented saying he would go if provided with an air-conditioned Winnebago.  With that, the seeds of MCC Omaha were planted.

Shortly thereafter, Rev. Fred Zydek and Rev. Gary Storm became MCC Omaha's first pastors.  Services were held in the Unitarian church, and in January 1974, MCC Omaha became a chartered Metropolitan Community Church congregation.

In 1975 Rev. Bob Arthur became pastor and the church moved into a former laundromat at the corner of 20thand Burt.  Rev. Bob Darst then took leadership of the congregation.  Pastor Bob was known for the two dollar fellowship meals he prepared and served every Wednesday.  In 1982, Rev. Jan Kross joined MCC Omaha family as the first female pastor. The congregation continued to meet at 20th and Burt despite vandalism and graffiti until the Fire Marshall ruled the building did not meet code.

The congregation worked hard to beautify that small building.  The cross from that building continues to hang in the building's current sanctuary. In 1985 MCC Omaha was present in the first Pride parade and has marched in each year in Omaha's Pride parade since then. In 1989, Rev. Matthew Howard was called as pastor.

Under God’s grace and guidance, MCC Omaha has been engaged in a comprehensive makeover of its property. Over the last several years, the Sanctuary has become accessible, the grounds have been landscaped, and the Sanctuary has been painted and carpeted. Other work includes new electrical wiring, remodeled restrooms, and a new roof, and renovated office space for Pastor Tom and staff  that includes a total makeover for the balcony area. Much of this work has been supported by those outside the church from the larger LBGT community, in addition to the donation of labor and materials by MCC Omaha members.