Ecumen’s roots extend to 1862 when the Lutheran Church began providing foster care in Minnesota. At the beginning of the 20th Century, we began serving seniors.

Several of our communities began in the early 20th Century, including Ecumen Pathstone Living in Mankato, Minn., Ecumen Lakeshore in Duluth, Minn., and Ecumen Detroit Lakes in Detroit Lakes, Minn.

In 1923, this growing organization incorporated under the name The Board of Christian Service. In the early 1960s we became the Board of Social Ministry.

In 2004, we changed our name to Ecumen. The Ecumen name comes from the Greek word for “home” and underscores our mission to create home for older adults wherever they choose to live.

In our 150+ year history, Ecumen has grown to be the most innovative leader in senior housing and services, empowering individuals to live richer and fuller lives.