“A traditional cathedral but with modern elements.” That was the vision for the First United Methodist Church of Glendale. Completed in 1961 the Glendale First United Methodist Church stands as a testament to Mid-Century Modern architecture.
The congregants wanted a cathedral-like edifice. They also welcomed elements of Modern design. The architectural firm Flewelling and Moody responded. They created a distinctive landmark of Glendale Modernism.
As you stand before it notice the classic cruciform plan. It has a central nave and side transepts. Also note the chancel. The church retains the height and monumentality of a Gothic cathedral. You’ll see tall concrete columns and abundant stained glass.
But it does it all in a wonderfully expressive Mid-Century Modern style. Look at the folded roof. It’s made of thin-shell concrete. Observe the simple vertical lines. Appreciate the minimalist exterior masonry cladding.
A 112-foot-high three-legged concrete tower stands watch. It’s called the Trilon. It marks the location of the First United Methodist Church of Glendale. You can see it from across much of the city.
Step inside. The building’s interior is spectacular. Multicolored light dapples the space. It comes from forty-foot-high stained glass windows. John Wallis of Pasadena’s Wallis-Walley glass studio created them. Jean Whinnery of Flewelling and Moody also contributed.
The light feels heavenly. The church features a traditional fold-roof. It’s made of thin shell concrete. This gives the building its wonderful height. It adds monumentality. The minimalist exterior completes this beautiful masterpiece.
Glendale First United Methodist Church celebrates its legacy. The elders established it. They carry on in their footsteps. They look into a brighter future. They honor those who have given so much to this church.
In 1903 the Pasadena District Reverend Superintendent and 34 others met. They met with Pastor Charles Russell Norton. They gathered in a room on the 2nd floor of a Glendale Avenue building. They created Glendale Methodist Episcopal Church.
Less than a year later the church dedicated a new building. It was on Wilson and Kenwood. Major renovations occurred in the following years. This created the beauty we know as the sanctuary today. Aesthetic modifications happened. Leadership changed. A new name came: Glendale First United Methodist Church.
Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Angela Galanis Price and Associate Pastor Rev. Stephanie Rice serve Glendale First. They lead the church. They guide it in this time of growth. This radiant church is an icon of Modern design in Glendale. It is truly elevating and spiritually inspiring. Indeed a historical jewel of the county.