Communities of Faith
Pastor of Pilgrims
John Robinson was a pivotal figure in the life of the Pilgrims, guiding their spiritual journey from England to the New World. Born in 1576, Robinson's early ministry was marked by his dedication to religious reform, which eventually led him to join the Separatist movement. The Pilgrims' story began in the small village of Scrooby, England, where Robinson and his followers sought to practice their faith free from persecution. In 1608, to escape the oppressive laws of the English Church, the group fled to Amsterdam. However, the bustling port city's distractions soon prompted another move, this time to Leiden, a quieter town in the Netherlands. Here, Robinson's leadership flourished. He was known for his wise counsel and deep theological insights, which he shared both in sermons and writings. During their 12 years in Leiden, the Pilgrims built a close-knit community, but economic hardships and the threat of losing their English identity pushed them to seek a new life across the Atlantic.
In 1620, a portion of Robinson's congregation sailed on the Mayflower, leaving Leiden's safety behind for the uncertain promise of Plymouth. Robinson remained in Leiden to continue leading the remaining congregation, offering spiritual support from afar. Under his guidance and the steadfast faith of the Pilgrim settlers, Plymouth Colony gradually took root, despite immense hardships. Robinson's influence extended across the ocean, as his teachings continued to inspire the colony's leaders and shape their governance. His vision of a community grounded in faith, cooperation, and self-governance became the cornerstone of Pilgrim society. John Robinson's legacy endures as a testament to his enduring faith and the indomitable spirit of the Pilgrims.
The Mayflower Compact
The original law codes of 1627, housed and cared for today by the Town of Plymouth, document the founding and defining moments of the Pilgrims.