Communtiy Chapel

Can you hear the echoes of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans at Community Chapel? This charming church, nestled within Oakwood Memorial Park in Chatsworth, has a history as captivating as a Hollywood western. Community Chapel is the oldest Protestant church in the San Fernando Valley. It began its life in 1903, not in a cemetery, but near the bustling intersection of Topanga Boulevard and Devonshire Street. The church boasts a classic New England design, complete with a picturesque bell tower that seems to call back to a simpler time. In the 1940s and 50s, Community Chapel counted among its members two of Hollywood’s brightest stars: Roy Rogers and Dale Evans. They were active members of the church community. Imagine them attending services, perhaps even singing a hymn or two. In 1965, the church was sold to the Chatsworth Historical Society. It was then moved to its current location within Oakwood Memorial Park. The cemetery generously donated the land for this historic building. Since 1981, the Community Chapel has been home to the congregation of St. Mary the Virgin Anglican Catholic Episcopal Church. This small, 75-seat sanctuary continues to offer a place of peace and reflection, a testament to its enduring legacy. So, as you stand here, amidst the tranquility of the cemetery, remember the echoes of the past. Recall the community that gathered here. Remember the stars who graced its pews. Community Chapel stands as a reminder of the history and faith that have shaped the San Fernando Valley.