Florence Methodist Church

A church without a home That’s the intriguing story of First United Methodist Church of Los Angeles. Founded in 1853 it began at the El Dorado Saloon. Imagine the contrast. A holy place starting in a saloon. This church wasn’t just a place of worship. It was a partner with Biddy Mason a remarkable woman in the fight for emancipation and integration. The church moved from Fort Street to Hope Street. It grew to 6000 members in the 1900s. Times changed. Downtown Los Angeles changed. People moved to the suburbs. The church moved again to its current location. By the late 1990s the building was outdated. A bold decision was made. The building was torn down. The church invested in a crucial community need housing. First United Methodist Church of Los Angeles is now a church without a home. It meets for worship in a parking lot at Flower and Olympic. It’s a church without walls without borders without barriers. This reflects its open theology. God’s love should be experienced and shared freely. The church’s history is a testament to adaptation. It’s a story of resilience and a commitment to serving the community. A story that’s more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a story of faith hope and unwavering community spirit. It’s a church that continues to thrive. It is a vital part of Los Angeles. A place that embraces change. A place that remains a beacon of hope.