Central Church of Christ

Envision stepping back in time to the 1930s in Los Angeles. Central Church of Christ stood tall, yet its doors weren’t open to all. Segregation cast a long shadow, even within the walls of faith. This is the story of Central Church of Christ and a remarkable friendship that blossomed amidst the prejudice of the era. Central Church of Christ, located on California Avenue, was a place of worship for the white community. However, African Americans were barred from joining the congregation. Sarah McGehee, a devout member of the Church of Christ, arrived in Bakersfield seeking a better life. She yearned to find a spiritual home but was turned away due to the color of her skin. This painful reality underscored the harsh segregation of the time. In a twist of fate, Sarah met L.A. Brown, a white woman and member of Central Church of Christ. Their connection transcended racial barriers, forging a deep and abiding friendship. Unable to worship together at Central Church of Christ, Sarah and L.A. began holding services in L.A.’s home on Lake Street. This small act of defiance created a sanctuary of faith and acceptance. In 1934, they reached out to A.L. Cassius, a preacher from Los Angeles. Cassius traveled to Bakersfield and, together with Sarah and L.A., they held a series of impactful services. Six baptisms followed, marking the beginning of the Church of Christ among African Americans in Bakersfield. The following year, Cassius returned, baptizing eight more individuals. The seeds of faith continued to grow, nourished by the unwavering dedication of Sarah, L.A., and those who joined their burgeoning community. This story, though centered on Bakersfield, illuminates the wider context of Central Church of Christ in Los Angeles and the pervasive segregation that impacted religious life during that time. It reminds us of the power of faith and friendship to overcome even the most deeply entrenched societal divides. While the Central Church of Christ building itself might not be directly mentioned in this narrative, it serves as the silent backdrop against which this story of resilience and hope unfolds.