“What stories could these walls tell?” That’s what I wonder as I stand before Palisades Presbyterian Church. This church has a history stretching back to 1888. It began with 29 charter members. They petitioned the Presbytery in Santa Ana. They wanted to form the First United Presbyterian Church in San Diego. That date is now recognized as the founding of Palisades Presbyterian Church.
Early services were held in the San Diego Courthouse. It was at Broadway and 2nd Street. That intersection now includes the Westgate Hotel. The church first worshiped in the Holt House. It was near Market and 14th Street. Their first church building was at 19th and G Street. That location is now under Highway 94 and Interstate 5.
The initial structure was small. It measured only 20 by 30 feet. The 38 hardy members built it with volunteer labor. Within nine years, the congregation outgrew it. They moved to a building at 22nd and Market Street. It served parishioners for over 50 years.
As San Diego grew, the church followed its members. It moved to its current location in Allied Gardens. This was in 1956. They purchased 5.7 acres for $15,000. The first services were held before Christmas in 1956. The sanctuary wasn’t completed until 1964.
Look up at the stained-glass windows. They tell a story of mercy. During World War II, Allied planes bombed the Dutch factory. This jeopardized the stained-glass business. As an apology, the U.S. government stepped in. It shipped American orders free of charge. These windows traveled by Navy ship. They went from Holland to Portland, Oregon. Then, they were trucked to the church. These windows are reminders of forgiveness and grace.
Since the sanctuary’s completion, Palisades Presbyterian Church has grown. In 1988, they celebrated their 100th birthday. They constructed office space and a breezeway. This connected the sanctuary to other buildings. In 2005, The Point was completed. This is a long-planned outdoor amphitheater. In 2019, the HGT Family Park was dedicated. It honored Pastor Harvey G. Throop. He served as senior pastor for 33 years.
Today, Palisades Presbyterian Church continues its service. It strives to be a beacon of Christ’s love. The church’s mission is clear. It’s to love God and love our neighbors. They seek to be the heart, hands, and feet of Jesus Christ. It is a place to celebrate, worship, and gather. It is a historic place ready to welcome you.