History of Unity

The Unity movement was founded in 1889 by Myrtle and Charles Fillmore as a healing ministry. The founders studied Buddhism, Theosophy, Hinduism, as well as Christianity and other spiritual traditions. We regard Jesus as the great example rather than the great exception, and we recognize the Bible as a complex collection of writings compiled over many centuries. We honor these writings as reflecting the understanding and inspiration of the writers at the time they were written. Although its philosophical and cultural roots are based in Christianity, Unity respects and honors the universal wisdom and truths found in all historic and contemporary writings.

Timeline

1876 - Charles met Myrtle

1881 - Charles and Myrtle married

1884 - Fillmores moved to Kansas City, MO

1886 - Myrtle and Charles attended many health lectures to find a way to heal Myrtle's chronic tuberculosis. She was inspired by a New Thought lecture by metaphysician Dr. E.B. Weeks who stated "I am a child of God, therefore I do not inherit sickness." Myrtle incorporated prayer and other methods learned from Weeks into her daily life.

1888 - Myrtle was completely healed.

1889 - Unity Movement began. First issue of Modern Thought was published by the Fillmores. 

1890- The 24/7 prayer ministry SIlent Unity was formed.

1891 - Charles Fillmore named their organization "Unity". Unity Magazine began.

1892 - The Fillmore Covenant was signed.

1893 - Wee Wisdom Magazine was published.

1894 - First "Lesson in Truth" by Emily Cady appeared in Unity Magazine.

1909 - Unity Correspondence School was established.

1910 - The Prosperity Faith Bank plan began.

1914 - Unity School of Christianity was incorporated.

1920 - Unity Farm of 58 acres was purchased. 

1922 - First Unity radio talk was broadcast over station WOQ in Kansas City, MO

1924 - Radio station WOQ was purchased by Unity. First issue of the Daily Word was published.

1931 - Myrtle Fillmore made her transition. Unity Metaphysical Bible Dictionary was published. Unity Training School began.

1934 - Unity Minister's Association began.

1948 - Charles Fillmore made his transition.

1951 - First spiritual retreat held at Unity Farm.

1953 - Unity Farm became Unity Village.

1966 - Association of Unity Churches and Unity Ministerial School began.

1994 - Unity's First World Day of Prayer