Epiphany Chapel

Journey with me back to 1887, to the heart of Lincoln Heights. Here, the Church of the Epiphany, the oldest surviving Episcopal congregation in Los Angeles, first opened its doors. The original Romanesque Revival structure, designed by Ernest Coxhead, served a growing community. By 1913, the congregation needed more space. Architect Arthur Benton, renowned for his work on Riverside’s Mission Inn, stepped in. He blended Gothic Revival, Mission Revival, and Romanesque Revival styles to create a new sanctuary. The original church became the parish hall, seamlessly integrated into the expanded design. Inside the Church of the Epiphany, redwood pillars and arches rise in a stunning display of wood Gothic craftsmanship. The church became more than just a place of worship. It evolved into a vital hub for social and political activism. In the latter half of the 20th century, it played a crucial role in the Chicano Movement. The Church of the Epiphany witnessed the neighborhood’s transformation, reflecting the changing demographics and the fight for civil rights. This sacred space became a platform for voices demanding justice and equality. The church’s basement housed the printing press for La Raza, an underground pro-Chicano newspaper. It also provided a meeting place for activists organizing the East L.A. student walkouts. Even Cesar Chavez, the iconic labor leader, delivered powerful speeches within these hallowed walls. The Church of the Epiphany earned recognition for its historical and cultural significance. In 2005, it was designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument. Later, in 2019, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The legacy of activism and community engagement continues at the Church of the Epiphany. The fight for social justice persists within this historic sanctuary. Today, the Epiphany Conservation Trust works tirelessly to preserve this architectural gem and its rich history. They strive to ensure that the Church of the Epiphany continues to serve as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of community action.