“To organize a church designed to commemorate the word and works of our Master” that was the purpose of First Church of Christ Scientist. This Los Angeles church stands as a testament to faith and healing. It is part of a global network with roots in Boston.
The First Church of Christ Scientist embodies the principles of Christian Science. It aims to reinstate primitive Christianity. This includes its lost element of healing. Mary Baker Eddy’s vision guides this church. Her teachings emphasize spiritual healing.
You are standing before a building with a rich history. It reflects a unique blend of architectural styles. Elmer Grey designed the First Church of Christ Scientist. He mixed Beaux Arts Italianate and Spanish Romanesque Revival styles. This blend creates a distinctive and beautiful edifice.
Construction finished in 1912. The First Church of Christ Scientist became a local landmark. It is located on South Alvarado Street in Pico-Union. The church became a contributing property within the Alvarado Terrace Historic District. It gained recognition on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. It also became a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument.
Inside, congregants gather to explore primary themes. They study weekly Bible lessons. These lessons include the nature of God. They examine the healing power of Christ. They also explore our spiritual identity. We are all children of God.
The Christian Science Publishing Society supports the church. It provides resources such as “The Christian Science Monitor.” This publication offers thoughtful news coverage. JSH-Online provides access to a century of Christian Science healing. It comes from “The Christian Science Journal” and “Christian Science Sentinel.”
The church’s history has seen changes. In 1972 the building was sold. It briefly served as a synagogue. Later it became a branch of the Peoples Temple. Today, the building houses Iglesia Adventista Central. It is a Spanish-speaking Seventh-day Adventist church.
While the congregation evolved the building remains. It stands as a testament to its original purpose. It is a space dedicated to faith and healing. The story of First Church of Christ Scientist is a reminder. Faith can adapt and endure.