Around San Diego County, where faith and community intertwine, stands the Christian Life Assembly. But what makes this place special? Let’s uncover its story.
Christian Life Assembly stands proudly on Twin Peaks Road. It is nestled in Poway, California. This church is more than just a building. It is a spiritual home for many. The Christian Life Assembly is known as a Pentecostal church.
The story of Christian Life Assembly is interwoven with the broader history of Christian communities in San Diego. To truly appreciate this assembly, we must look back at the religious landscape of the region. Early assemblies in San Diego faced challenges. They often met in homes. Later, they moved to rented halls as their congregations grew.
In 1904, J.G. Traggardh moved to San Diego. He came from Pittsburgh with his wife and son. The next year, William Brunner and family arrived from Iowa. These two families formed the nucleus of an early assembly. They began breaking bread and studying the Bible. They met at the Traggardh home. As others joined, they moved to a larger house. It was located on the corner of 12th and Market Streets.
The growing assembly needed more space. They planned to erect a hall. Despite limited funds, they acquired a vacant lot on Texas Street. William Brunner and others built the Bible Truth Hall. Many people in nearby homes embraced Christianity. They sought fellowship at the hall. Soon, the building became too small.
Around 1919, a vacant lot was obtained on 30th Street. The hall was moved and enlarged. Space was added for traveling evangelists. The brethren engaged in evangelistic work. They visited homes and held street meetings. Young people sang and distributed tracts at hospitals and jails. Many gathered in homes for Bible study.
Disagreements led a group including the Brunners to leave Bible Truth Hall. They purchased an old Baptist church. It was on Marlborough Street. This became known as Marlborough Gospel Hall.
During World War II, the assembly grew significantly. More than 200 people met in a building meant for 100. Buses were bought to transport children to Sunday School. Servicemen were picked up and brought to meetings. Many servicemen found salvation as a result.
The group relocated to Laurel Street in 1957. It was then renamed Laurel Bible Chapel. The servicemen’s ministry continued. The Sunday school program thrived until about 1971. Hundreds of children were brought on five buses. Evangelism remained a key focus.
From 1939 to 1963, summer camp programs were held at Forest Home. These were in conjunction with other assemblies. When the rent became too high, Verdugo Pines Bible Camp was purchased. Laurel Bible Chapel continues to use Verdugo Pines.
The increasing Hispanic population led to a Spanish-speaking congregation. It met at Laurel Bible Chapel. George Mora started a Spanish Bible Class. This ministry reached out to families. Some parents were saved as a result.
As Laurel grew, new fellowships were established. East County Bible Fellowship formed in 1976. Cornerstone Bible Church followed in the mid-1980s. These hive-offs involved the loss of sizeable groups. However, Laurel focused on refugees. Many refugees from Southeast Asia were saved. Cambodian and Laotian groups were established.
By 1990, the number of believers at Laurel exceeded the 1970s figure. This was due to the various ethnic groups. Each group preferred to conduct meetings in its own language. This facilitated evangelism. Elders from all groups met to address common issues.
Today, Christian Life Assembly carries on this legacy of community. It continues this tradition of faith. It offers a place for worship and fellowship. It stands as a beacon of hope. The Christian Life Assembly is located at 14047 Twin Peaks Road. The church welcomes all who seek spiritual growth. Its story reflects the enduring spirit of faith in San Diego County. It is a testament to the power of community.