Curious about a church with a tale that spans continents and cultures? Let’s explore the story of Venice Santa Monica Free Church. This church has a fascinating past rooted in both local history and global movements.
Venice Santa Monica Free Church started as Venice Free Methodist Church or VFMC. It began in 1925. Clyde Burnett a Free Methodist missionary founded it. He ministered to the Japanese community in Santa Monica.
Free Methodism itself was born in 1860 in New York. It championed freedom for all. This included opposing slavery and advocating for free seats in churches. The movement emphasized a warmhearted biblical message. It focused on personal and social holiness.
Tragically during World War II, Venice Santa Monica Free Church closed. This was due to the forced relocation of Japanese Americans. However the church re-opened in the late 1940s. It first met in a cafeteria. Later it built a chapel at its current location.
The church served both English and Japanese speakers. The Japanese ministry was known as the Nichigo Division. In the mid 1980s, the old building was replaced with the one you see today. The name changed to Venice Santa Monica Free Methodist Church. Later it was shortened to Venice Free Methodist Church.
Venice Santa Monica Free Church embraced a vision. It became a community growing in Christ. The mission expanded to reach the west side of Los Angeles. The church continues to value its connection to the Japanese community. It welcomes people of all backgrounds.
The church offers services at 9AM and 10:30 AM. The services feature contemporary worship and sermons. Sunday School is available for children. You can find coffee and refreshments outside.
Venice Santa Monica Free Church actively serves the community. It engages in outreach programs. These programs spread the word of God. The church participates in various community service projects.
Venice Free Methodist Church strives to bring wholeness to the world. It does this through healthy biblical communities. They focus on multiplying disciples and leaders. It is a place where all are welcome. It invites everyone to discover a relationship with God.