Beyond these doors lies a vibrant faith community. The Vallejo Drive Seventh-day Adventist Church has a rich history. It has been a part of the Glendale community for nearly a century. It has been integrally involved with health, education and community ministry.
Vallejo Drive Church was first organized as the Glendale Sanitarium Seventh-day Adventist Church. This happened on July 23, 1924. There were 80 members at the time. By 1928, with support from the Sanitarium and other organizations, a sanctuary was built. It could seat 600 people and cost only $32,000.
Interestingly, even on the brink of the Great Depression, the members managed to add a pipe organ. It was refurbished and cost $4,500. The church experienced significant growth between 1957 and 1967. Church seating became a weekly challenge. Under the leadership of Pastors Campbell, Escobar and Pelt, the congregation built a new church home. This happened 10 years later at a cost of $1 million. It was dedicated in November 1967. In 1964, the church program first bore the name Vallejo Drive Seventh-day Adventist Church.
The Vallejo Drive Seventh-day Adventist Church has existed on this site for 60 years. Many wonderful people have come and gone. The Vallejo Drive Church has stood for excellence and inspiration.
Four key characteristics set Vallejo Drive Church apart. Excellent preaching is a key ingredient in the church’s growth. The pastoral staff takes seriously the heritage of providing inspiring preaching. It preaches about God’s grace and acceptance. Excellent music also plays a vital role. This dates back to the installation of a pipe organ in 1929. Talented musicians, organists, and a chancel choir enrich worship. They bring an inspiration matched by few. The church is committed to praising God with uplifting music. Excellent Sabbath School programs draw people of all ages. Every branch of Sabbath School presents spiritual lessons in practical ways. Children sing, paint, color and dramatize Bible stories. The faithful giving of members enables the church to support various ministries. These include area schools, students, and media ministries. The generosity of members funds Sabbath School programs, Vacation Bible School and community services. It also supports homeless feedings and needy relief.
The Vallejo Drive Seventh-day Adventist Church building has unique architecture. Robert Burman designed it. He was an Adventist and designed over 85 churches on the West Coast. The Los Angeles Conservancy describes Vallejo Drive Church as rare. It has a round, folded-plate roof and a circular sanctuary. It is a playful take on Mid-Century Modern. Burman considered the Glendale church one of his favorites.
The Vallejo Drive Seventh-day Adventist Church continues to build its kingdom. It strives to be a house of prayer for all people. The church implements community outreach ministries. These include homeless visitation and food banks. It affirms the dignity of all mankind. It seeks justice for people of color. The church calls for an end to racism, sexism and tribalism. It adopts the evangelistic method of Jesus. It mingles with people desiring their good. The church worships humbly in the spirit of adoration, gratitude and love.
The Vallejo Drive Seventh-day Adventist Church invites everyone to be part of its story. It gathers to worship every Saturday. Services are held at 9:30 am and 11 am. The church welcomes all.