The following is the history of the Willimantic Church of the Nazarene, through an interview with Maurice and Gloria Vining, Charter Members on November 28, 2006.

"The Willimantic Church of the Nazarene began with many prayers back in 1965-66 by a group of people worshipping together in the Norwich Church of the Nazarene. During that year, our Pastor, Rev. Earle Landers and the District Superintendent, Rev. Fletcher Spruce got together and we all went looking for land to build a church in the Willimantic area. It turned out that the timing wasn't right, as the doors did not open up for us then. But much prayer continued for a church coming to Willimantic. Instead, the Norwich Church moved to Preston, and we were there to help with that."

"In 1978, we got a phone call that Rev. McLain would be holding prayer meetings in Willimantic, with two families who were attending the Manchester Church. We became involved as did Pastor Alexander from Preston, who came to help with the meeting. The Assistant Pastor in Manchester, George Emmitt and his wife, came to help as well. Manchester was considered the 'sending' church. They also sent two families to help for that first year. Through each move, you could see how God was working things out and moving in His way. He has been so faithful."

"In the early 1980's, Rev. Richard Devendorf and his wonderful family were appointed to come to Willimantic, and the church from Manchester provided the a place to live. We rented a store front on Bridge Street in which to hold worship services. We organized on June 1, 1980 with 18 charter members. God has really been faithful to the Willimantic Church. In 1982 we moved into a building owned by the 7th Day Advent Church on Lewiston Avenue, (which later we purchased) where we still worship today."

"Willimantic has always served the community through outreach. In the 1980's we always had a time of fellowship after our Sunday Evening Service with plenty of finger foods, which brought in a lot of college students, singles and those who were less fortunate (and needing Jesus as well). During that time, several of those who attended the Willimantic Church let God work in their lives, and continue today in their fruitful ministries for the Lord. In the 90's a breakfast was served weekly to feed the homeless and needy. Later we did a Sunday dinner. In 2004 we changed our focus to families and children. We now are bussing in several children from difficult family situations. God has truly blessed Willimantic with many faithful and generous people that reach out to help those in need, as we share with them the love of Jesus."

Pastors who served:

Rev. R. Devendorf
Rev. M. Nahass
Rev. M. Pease
Christie Clifford (Bennett) - Supplied
Rev. and Mrs. R. Clifford
Rev. M. White
Rev. P. Prince
Rev. M. Rolan
Rev. J. Knight