The Mayflower Compact

Presented by Grammar School, Grades 3-4

A long time ago in England, everyone was expected to go to the same church. The king was the leader of both the country and the church, and he decided how people should worship. 

But some people, later called the Pilgrims, believed that worship should come from their hearts and the Bible, not from the king’s rules. They wanted to pray, sing, and teach their children in ways that followed God’s Word. In September 1620, over 400 years ago, about 40 Pilgrims and their families left England and sailed across the ocean on a small ship called the Mayflower. They loved God and wanted to worship Him freely in their own way. 

The ship was crowded and cold. Storms tossed it, and many people became sick. But the Pilgrims prayed and sang songs to remind each other that God was with them. After sailing for over two months, they finally reached land on November 9th. They thanked God for keeping them safe. But they were far north of where they wanted to go. There was no town, no leaders, and no one to guide them. 

The Pilgrims knew they needed to work together. They wanted to build a new community where they could live in peace and follow God. Before leaving the ship, the men met and wrote an agreement – a promise to make fair laws, follow them, and help each other. This promise was called the Mayflower Compact. It showed that freedom works best when people take responsibility. The Pilgrims could be free because they chose to be honest, follow God, and keep their promises. By doing this, they could trust each other, work together, and live in peace. 

The Mayflower Compact was one of the first steps toward self government in what would later become America. It showed how people could make rules together and care for each other. With courage, faith, and help from the Native Americans, the Pilgrims learned to live in their new home. Their promise to follow God and help each other shows us that we can do great things when we work together and trust Him. 

by Ms. Lindsay Nunez

Grammar School Teacher

Following this historical thought, Mr. Carman, Head of School, presented some remarks on Thanksgiving.

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This historical thought was delivered by our Grammar School students at devotional on 11/13/2025. Each week one class leads the student body in prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, scripture recitation, a meditation, and an historical thought. Belmont family and friends are welcome, Thursdays 8:30-9:05 am.

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