Before us stands La Iglesia En Camino a beacon of faith in Los Angeles. Its story is intertwined with the larger narrative of Pentecostalism in Southern California. La Iglesia En Camino shares a connection with The Church on the Way.
La Iglesia En Camino’s roots trace back to the influence of the Foursquare Church. The Church on the Way was once pastored by Jack Hayford. He significantly impacted the Charismatic Movement. Services were televised and aired on a local radio station. The Church on the Way is related to La Iglesia En El Camino in Van Nuys.
Consider the journey of faith that led to the establishment of La Iglesia En Camino. The Church on the Way began in 1926. Students from Life Bible College started a tent revival in Van Nuys. This small gathering evolved into a church. In 1927, they moved to a new facility on Erwin Street. The congregation built a new sanctuary in 1951. This was located at 14344 Sherman Way. A marching band celebrated this event down Van Nuys Boulevard.
Imagine the scene in 1969. The aging church had dwindled to a few elderly members. Howard Carson stepped down due to illness. Jack Hayford became the interim pastor. In 1971, he accepted the permanent position. Under Hayford’s leadership, the church experienced substantial growth. By 1974, the sanctuary needed remodeling to accommodate the increasing numbers. In 1981, the current sanctuary at 14300 Sherman Way was constructed. The church purchased another property at 14800 Sherman Way in 1987.
Reflect on the leadership transitions. Jack Hayford retired in 1999. His son-in-law, Scott Bauer, succeeded him. Bauer served until his death in 2003. Jim Tolle then pastored both English and Spanish congregations from 2004 to 2010. Ricky Temple led the English congregation for a year until 2013. In 2014, Tim Clark became the senior pastor.
La Iglesia En Camino continues to serve its community. It offers a place for spiritual growth. The church is part of a larger network of faith. It shares a common heritage with other churches. La Iglesia En Camino remains a vital part of the religious landscape. It provides a welcoming space for all seeking faith and community.