In 1965, four Ann Arbor churches envisioned a gathering place for students — a coffee house like many that were springing up on campuses all around the country. First Presbyterian, Calvary Presbyterian, Northside Presbyterian churches and Campus Chapel (Christian Reformed campus ministry) set up a board with two representatives from each church. First Presbyterian Church provided the major portion of the funding and the church house on Hill Street… known as Hill House.

The focus of the churches was not to preach or proselytize, but to listen to the concerns of students and to provide a warm, safe, peaceful place to come together free from drugs, alcohol, and the storms of academic life and personal stress. It was meant to provide a creative outlet for talent in music, poetry and art work; to dialogue about the issues and questions of the campus community. And by December 1965, it had received its present name: The Ark. It has been afloat ever since!

George Abbott White, the first manager, began in January 1966. The early programs included presentations by and dialogue with faculty and other local folks. The political climate of the 60’s, with civil rights movement and the Vietnam War, provided the opportunity for many political as well as ethical and theological discussions. At the Thursday Night Forums you might hear a philosopher, a sheriff, a poet, an artist, or a theologian.