A promise made generations ago still echoes within these walls. This is the First Presbyterian Church of Los Angeles. It stands as a testament to faith and community. Let’s uncover its story.
Founded in 1903, the First Presbyterian Church began when Hollywood was just a small community. Imagine a town of only 700 people. The Presbytery of Los Angeles considered it an unlikely place for a new church. But Reverend Dr. Henry Newell and his wife Lizzie believed otherwise. They gathered 25 adults who pledged to prioritize God’s glory and the church’s welfare. These individuals became the Charter Members.
In 1908, the church purchased its present site. They started building their first structure. It was affectionately known as the Presbyterian Storm Cellar. Now, it is simply called “The Cellar.” By 1909, the congregation had constructed its first sanctuary superstructure. Today, it serves as the gymnasium. During the church’s second decade, the women organized the Women’s Home and Missionary Society. They supported Margaret Hartsock. She became the church’s first overseas missionary.
The Rev. Dr. Stuart MacLennan became the pastor in 1921. He began a legacy of powerful preaching. During his time, he inspired the church. He also established a local radio ministry. He led the campaign to build the current sanctuary. The cornerstone was laid in 1923. The sanctuary was designed to hold 1,600 people. This was far more than the 1,000 members at the time. This shows how important worship was to the church.
Dr. MacLennan persuaded Henrietta Mears to become the Director of Christian Education. From 1928 to 1963, Mears established a unique legacy. She impacted Christian education and ministry significantly. In the 1950s, she mentored many future leaders. These included Louis Evans, Jr., Bill Bright, Donn Moomaw, and Dale Bruner. Mears also envisioned a Christian camp in the mountains. This led to the purchase and development of Forest Home. She also founded Gospel Light Press. This provided Sunday School curriculum.
In 1941, the Rev. Dr. Louis Evans, Sr. became the pastor. He continued the tradition of strong pulpit ministry. He also invested in developing lay ministry. During his tenure, the church membership grew significantly. It went from 1,400 to 8,900 members. Also in 1941, Dr. Charles and Mrs. Lucy Hirt became music directors. They founded the Cathedral Choir. They expanded the ministry of adult and children’s choirs. The Hirts led the choirs to offer music as a spiritual experience. It was a ministry and a witness rather than a performance.
The First Presbyterian Church has a rich history of influential leaders. They shaped not only the church but also the broader community. It remains a vital evangelical church. It reaches out to Los Angeles. It produces pastors, missionaries, and leaders for the Church around the world. It stands as a beacon of faith. It is a testament to the enduring power of community. Remember the story of the First Presbyterian Church. It is a story of faith, leadership, and unwavering commitment.