“Radical love and divine justice for all.” That is the motto of First United Methodist Church of San Diego. It extends its arms to all of God’s people. This includes all ages races orientations genders abilities or religious beliefs.
First United Methodist Church of San Diego has a long and rich history. It dates all the way back to 1869. The church is one of the oldest churches in San Diego.
Back in 1869 San Diego was forming an identity. It was a border town in a new state. It was an attractive place for people coming from both the South and the East. The church held its first prayer meeting that year.
The Gothic Revival sanctuary was designed for First Church in 1906. Architect Irving John Gill designed it. It was his only example in this style. First Church worshipped at this location from 1907 until 1964. It was later demolished. This was due to earthquake safety concerns.
First Methodist Episcopal Church has moved several times. From 1870 to 1906 the church was in Downtown near Horton Plaza. After that the congregation worshipped from 1907 to 1964 in a Gothic Revival-style sanctuary. First Church outgrew this space. So it moved again in 1964 to its current place. It is now a Spanish Contemporary-style church in Mission Valley.
The church celebrated its 150th anniversary recently. It held a series of special events. A book launch was held. The book was “Images of America: First United Methodist Church of San Diego”. Krista Ames-Cook wrote it.
First Church believes in making disciples. They want to make disciples of Jesus Christ. This will transform the world. They believe they can make a difference.
First Church welcomes all people. They seek the love of God. This is without regard to ability age color or economic circumstance. It does not matter if they are of ethnic background family configuration gender or nationality. Sexual orientation does not matter. The church promises to search for the presence of Christ in all persons. They strive for justice and peace among all people. They respect the dignity of every human being.
First United Methodist Church of San Diego proclaims the love of Christ. They offer it to everyone. It does not matter what their color gender race class or age is. Sexual orientation or gender identity does not matter.
First Church embraces the mission of the United Methodist Church. They seek to make a difference. First Church is a movement of Spirit-led people. They are growing in the grace of God. They reach out with the love of Jesus Christ.
In 1876 the pastor of the church officiated a marriage by telegraph. The church’s former location near Horton Plaza was also the site of community lectures. Susan B. Anthony spoke there in June 1895. This was for the women’s suffrage movement.
When the church moved to Ninth and C streets a set of chimes was gifted to the city of San Diego in 1908. First Church was the custodian of the bells. These chimes are in the Mission Valley bell tower today.
Today the First United Methodist Church of San Diego continues its mission. It serves San Diego through its various locations and ministries. The church welcomes you.