Unity of Las Vegas began on October 11, 1961, as the first Unity Church in Las Vegas, led by Rev. Marie Kapp and her husband, Paul Kapp at 1077 Griffith Ave, in their home with permission from Elsie Shaw & Sig Paulson as an informal study. Inspired by her education at Unity School of Christianity in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Marie was Ordained in 1966 by Lowell Fillmore, the son of Unity founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore, the Kapps brought Unity principles to Southern Nevada. During these early years, Rev. Marie introduced the invocation: “In our Unity of purpose, we are guided by Infinite Wisdom and prospered by Divine Love,” first shared in 1962 during the inaugural church service.
Unity as a movement was founded in 1889 by Charles and Myrtle Fillmore. By the time Unity of Las Vegas was established in 1961, Unity was already 72 years old, having spread its teachings of spiritual enlightenment and practical Christianity across the globe. Unity’s presence in Nevada began with Unity House in Reno, founded in 1946 under the leadership of Robert Caswell. Located at the Mary Sherman House 847 North Center Street, Reno, NV. Under Leadership of Pastors Robert and Fay Caswell from 1946-1955, Then a new minister took over From 1955 to 1975 Rev. Margery Baring. This made Unity Church of the Desert’s establishment in Las Vegas a key milestone in expanding the reach of Unity principles in the state.
The social climate of 1961 was marked by rapid transformation, with the civil rights movement gaining momentum and societal norms shifting dramatically. In this era of change, Unity’s New Thought principles offered a refreshing and inclusive approach to spirituality, emphasizing the divine potential within every individual, the power of positive thinking, and a focus on love and inclusivity. These teachings provided hope and empowerment to many navigating the challenges of the time.
The church grew rapidly from its humble beginnings with a group consisting of 6 members and grew to a total of 70 by 1965 from the Kapps home to its first formal location at 919 Lewis Avenue, where the first church service was held on September 30, 1962. As the congregation expanded, Unity moved to larger venues, including the Town and Country Shopping Center at 1431 E. Charleston Boulevard, and eventually to its current home at 4325 North Rancho Drive, Suite 110. Each location reflects Unity’s growth and its unwavering commitment to serving the spiritual needs of the Las Vegas community.
The Women of Unity group was founded on March 15, 1965, With Bertha Batley as President, and 10 in attendance creating a powerful support network for spiritual and community engagement. Their first project was a bake sale on January 29, 1966, at the Safeway store on East Charleston, followed by a Fried Chicken Dinner 2/12/1966 at Odd Fellow Hall. Women of Unity has become Ladies in Unity.
The first Sunday School service was held on March 4, 1962, attended by eight children, and grew into a thriving youth ministry serving dozens of children and families in the Las Vegas area over the years. On January 30, 1966 the “Youth of Unity” YOU was organized for young people at the time ages 13 to 19 years old.
Over the years, Unity of Las Vegas has hosted many influential authors and speakers who have inspired and transformed lives. These include:
- Alex Alberg, Who built the vast publishing structure of Unity. Delivered profound lessons in September 1965, with his lesson “Spiritual Understanding” while Rev. Marie Kapp was completing her ministry studies in Unity Village Missouri, offering spiritual guidance during the early years of Unity Church of the Desert.
- Other notable Early Guest Speakers, Artist Sune Richards – July 1966 Lecture, “My Search for the Disciples” , Rosemary Grace Granddaughter of Charles & Myrtle Filmore-1966, Sadhu Balwant s. Grewal, Author, Lecturer, Teacher and World Traveler-1969 & April-1970 Lectures Powers of the Mind, The Art of Healing, Have you lived before- his first publication The Philosophers stone of wisdom-1939
- Anita Moorjani (November 19, 2022), best known for her bestselling book Dying to Be Me, who shared her profound near-death experience and spiritual insights.
- Rickie Byers (May 9, 2021), a celebrated singer-songwriter and founder of the Agape International Choir, who shared her powerful music and message of spiritual empowerment.
- Dr. Rima Bonario, ThD (May 31, 2020), who presented “The Winding Path Forward,” offering deep insights on navigating spiritual transformation.
Unity has also offered a variety of programs and study groups that support personal and spiritual growth, including:
- The 4T Prosperity Program, which teaches principles of tithing, time, talent, and treasure for abundance.
- Bible for the Lionhearted, a deeper exploration of scripture for courage and transformation.
- A Course in Miracles (ACIM), providing profound insights into forgiveness and spiritual awakening.
- Las Vegas Enneagram
- Book studies covering spiritual classics and modern works, fostering continuous learning and reflection. The Five Principles, Emille Cady, Lessons in Truth, Eric Butterworth Spiritual Economics, and many more.
Paul Kapp supported his wife’s ministry with his administrative and spiritual contributions, ensuring the church’s smooth growth during its formative years.
Today, Unity of Las Vegas thrives under the leadership of Lisa Lee, L.U.T., C.S.E., who emphasizes personal empowerment through her message: ‘We are empowered to live with intention, purpose, and peace, transforming ourselves and the world around us.’ This vision is guided by a dedicated leadership team and board of trustees, ensuring Unity remains a vibrant spiritual home.
Membership at Unity offers opportunities for spiritual growth, prayer support, and participation in meaningful rituals such as the Burning Bowl, White Stone Ceremony, and Candle Lighting. Members benefit from transformative workshops, community outreach projects, and the chance to shape Unity’s future through annual voting and active involvement.
For over six decades, Unity of Las Vegas has been a cornerstone of spiritual growth, touching countless lives with its message of love, peace, and hope. New Thought principles, foundational to Unity’s teachings, remain as relevant today as they were in 1961, offering timeless guidance for personal transformation and collective awakening. As we continue to build upon the legacy of leaders like Rev. Marie and Paul Kapp and the guidance of The Fillmore’s, Unity invites you to join in creating a brighter future. Together, let us shine our light and share the transformative power of Unity with the world.
