Ready to uncover a story of resilience and welcome? That’s what defines Saint Marys Episcopal Church. Founded in 1907 by Mary Louise Paterson, Saint Marys Episcopal Church began as a mission. Paterson was a former missionary to Japan. Her vision was to minister to Japanese immigrants in Los Angeles.
The Reverend John Misao Yamazaki, an immigrant himself, became the founding vicar. Saint Marys served as a vital hub. It was a center for community activities for the Japanese-American community. It helped Japanese immigrants assimilate into American culture. Since many parishioners were Issei or first generation Japanese, services were in both Japanese and English.
Imagine the shockwaves of World War II. Executive Order 9066 led to the evacuation of most of the congregation to internment camps. Yet, even behind barbed wire, faith persisted. The Reverend John Misao Yamazaki and his son, The Reverend John H. M. Yamazaki, continued their ministry. They conducted services in the barracks. This shared experience bonded many members of Saint Marys.
After the war, many returned to Los Angeles. But they faced a harsh reality. Many had lost their homes during internment. Saint Marys became a refuge and resource center. The church opened its doors. The vicarage became a hostel for those without housing. Saint Marys also re-established a Boy Scout Troop and the Girls Friendly Society.
In 1946, The Reverend John H. M. Yamazaki, affectionately known as Father John, succeeded his father. At that time, the congregation consisted of only twelve active families. Under Father John’s leadership, Saint Marys thrived. In 1956, Saint Marys achieved parish status in the Diocese of Los Angeles. Father John became Saint Marys first rector. He served until his retirement in 1985.
Father John’s tenure saw many youth programs flourish. Saint Marys ran its own pre-school. In conjunction with the Wilshire YMCA, they had youth activities like Indian Guides. They also offered Gra-Y a sports program and Golden Eagles.
The Summer Vacation Program was a major outreach effort for twenty years. Volunteers led activities focusing on religious and moral teachings. It later became a Diocesan and National Church program called the Summer Works Project.
The Christmas festival was a grand affair. Every child participated. The Junior YPF re-enacted the Nativity scene. Senior YPF presented a prelude to Santa Claus. The festival also honored advisors and teachers.
Another major event was the Annual Bazaar Carnival. It occurred every third Saturday in May. It was well-known throughout the Diocese and the Japanese-American community. Local businesses donated goods. Church members made teriyaki, chow mein, udon, sushi, and pastries. They sold fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Game booths entertained the youth. A Small World area delighted preschoolers. At its peak, the Bazaar Carnival raised $30,000.
From 1986 to 1991, The Reverend Mitsuo Akiyoshi served as rector. He introduced the first female assistant rector, The Reverend Sonja Pearson. During his time, the high altar became free standing. The dossal was removed. These decisions were controversial. In 1991, The Reverend Kathleen Cullinane became Saint Marys first woman rector. She served until 2000.
Mother Kate’s sermons were popular. They brought in new and former members. She facilitated the Endowment Committee’s goal to raise five hundred-thousand dollars. She also brought the Head Start pre-school program to Saint Marys.
Even after Father John’s official retirement in 1985, his influence remained strong. This lasted until his death in 1998. Following The Reverend Kate Cullinane’s departure, several leaders guided Saint Marys. In 2011, The Reverend Anna Olson became Saint Marys fifth rector. She has led the congregation in multilingual worship.
In April 2006, the parish broke ground on the Yamazaki Memorial Community Garden. It offers families a place to plant and grow their own food. Saint Marys celebrated its Centennial on May 27, 2007. Parishioners reflected on the past and honored the pioneers.
Saint Marys continues to evolve. It welcomes neighbors for worship in Spanish. It serves as a home to members of the Los Angeles Oaxacan community. It embodies a spirit of welcome.
Saint Marys Episcopal Church stands as a testament. It is a testament to faith, resilience, and community. It’s a place where history and hope intertwine.