Have you ever felt the warmth of a community that embraces differences? Welcome to the Emerson Unitarian Universalist Church in Los Angeles. Right here on Jordan Avenue this unassuming building holds a vibrant history. Founded in 1982 this church started with a simple potluck. Twenty-five people gathered sharing ideas for a name. Ralph Waldo Emerson resonated with most. Thus Emerson Unitarian Universalist Church was born.
Early meetings were held in a community room. Children’s classes were even held in stairwells. By 1984 they needed a permanent home. They found a small yellow church. Members worked tirelessly repairing and renovating it. Their dedication culminated in a dedication ceremony on December 12 1986. Guest ministers and congregation members led services. From 1986 to 1995 two part-time ministers served.
Growth propelled Emerson to new heights. Reverend Dr Glenda Gray became their first full-time minister in 1998. Membership flourished. Their involvement in social justice initiatives increased. Religious education blossomed too. Beth Kline became the Director of Religious Education in 2001. This led to an expansion. They purchased land with a house which they named Quest House. Music also thrived. Dr Kathy Mittelman joined as Choir Director in 2004. Emerson’s choir became a strong ministry.
Reverend Gray retired in 2008. Reverend Marni Harmony served as interim minister. 2009 saw Emerson stage its first Heart in the Park event. This public demonstration supported marriage equality. In 2010 Reverend Jeff Jones joined. He brought a reverence for diverse religions. He encouraged spiritual growth and community justice work. Emerson continued to expand. They started a Small Group Ministry program called Listening Circles.
Space continued to be a concern. After much searching Emerson moved to its current location on Canton Road in May 2014. This provided more space for their growing community. Emerson became a welcoming congregation for LGBTQ individuals and causes. They became a hub for social justice work particularly in gun legislation immigration and environmental issues. The Emerson Unitarian Universalist Church remains a beacon of inclusivity hope and healing in Los Angeles. Their journey embodies the power of community faith and action.