Established over a century ago, Gardena Valley Baptist Church started with immigrant children. It stands as a testament to faith. In 1914, Reverend Shibata gathered 20 children of Japanese immigrant families. They met in a small rented cottage for Sunday School. This humble start marked the beginning of Gardena Valley Baptist Church.
Within a few years, the church experienced remarkable growth. It was then known as Moneta Japanese Baptist Church. The Los Angeles Baptist City Mission Society aided them. They purchased land and built a new chapel. This chapel stood just a few blocks from the current location. Later, a youth facility was added. The church continued to thrive, experiencing both community and spiritual renewal.
World War II brought sudden disruption. The forced evacuation led to the closure of the church facility. Congregants were forced into internment camps. During this exile, Dr. Ralph Mayberry played a crucial role. He was the executive minister of the Los Angeles Baptist City Mission Society. Dr. Mayberry drove to the internment camp. He coordinated the ordination of Reverend Paul Nagano. Reverend Nagano continued to gather the church members within the camps.
In January 1946, Gardena Valley Baptist Church reconvened after the war. Piece by piece, the community was reestablished. The church continued its growth. In 1965, it purchased its current land. The new Sanctuary and classroom facilities were constructed in 1970. A major renovation project was completed by 2007. This included a new gym facility, new offices, and audio/visual upgrades.
Gardena Valley Baptist Church has become more multicultural. It reaches out locally and globally. The church helps people discover Jesus. It encourages them to become fully devoted followers. What began with a handful of children has grown. It is now a vibrant community of faith. Hundreds of people from all generations gather in the South Bay.
Gardena Valley Baptist Church celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2014. The celebration included a youth group reunion. There was also a special luncheon and worship services. A golf tournament supported the church’s Friday Food Ministry. It also supported Gardena Human Services and the Center for Pacific Asian Families.
Judy Fumie Hiroshige was actively involved in the church. She was a children’s ministry leader and Sunday school teacher. Judy also participated in the choir and golf fellowship. She contributed to the Harvest Festival and directed the children’s choir. Her service also extended to directing the children’s Christmas program. She was also the vacation Bible school director.
Harold Kobata recalls attending Sunday School at the old Gardena Japanese Baptist Church. It was on Dalton and 164th Street. He remembers the Sunday School bus. It picked up children from surrounding communities. The church also sponsored the only YMCA activity in Gardena.
Gardena Valley Baptist Church moved to its current site in 1949. The groundbreaking ceremony was a momentous occasion. The church has served as a cultural and communal anchor. It supports the ever-changing Nikkei community.
Gardena Valley Baptist Church continues to evolve. It embraces diversity. It remains a steadfast light. It is a presence of Jesus Christ in Gardena.