Robert S. Haight begins his 1975 history of St. Stephens Church by saying "The Church now called Saint Stephen's was founded by the Rev. Samuel L. Johnson (picture, below, right) as a mission in Ridgefield in 1725 under the name First Society in Ridgefield-- Church of England." Thus, this parish began one of Connecticut's first seven or eight Anglican parishes.

The first church building was built in 1740, ninety-nine years after adoption of the Fundamental Orders, which mark the beginning of the State of Connecticut. This first church was unadorned and without a steeple. The building would almost have fit in the chancel area of today's St. Stephen's church. As was the custom in colonial American churches, the pulpit was the focal point, overshadowing the Holy table which was brought into the main body of the church only on occasion.

Today, St. Stephen's is home to four hundred and sixty families. Although we honor our colonial beginnings and are anchored in tradition, we embrace the Gospel's call to new life and welcome opportunities to serve our Lord inside and beyond our walls.

As we "continue in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, andin in the prayers," we are deeply aware of our many blessings and of God's purpose for this parish family. We hope to Live the Word of God and Pass it On, building on the strong foundations laid by those who have gone before while looking to the future, assured of God's blessing.