Grace Chapel Church

Beneath the Los Angeles sun, Grace Chapel Church has witnessed a remarkable journey. Grace Chapel Church started as a modest gathering. On July 1, 1956, the first service of Grace Community Church of the Valley was held. The church began as a nondenominational community with a focus on core Christian beliefs. The founding pastor was Dr. Don Householder, known as a powerful preacher. The initial services were held in a converted townhouse. A wall was removed between two main rooms. This allowed Dr. Householder to maintain eye contact with his entire congregation. In 1957, the growing congregation moved to a newly constructed chapel on Roscoe Boulevard. This is the present location of Grace Chapel Church. Less than two years later, the church’s rapid growth necessitated two Sunday services. A new education building was built for Sunday school. Grace Church earned the nickname “the fastest growing church in Los Angeles.” Dr. Householder passed away in April 1965. In 1966, Dr. Richard Elvee, known for his ability to grow churches, became the pastor. The church continued to expand under his leadership until his death in September 1968. John MacArthur became the pastor of Grace Chapel Church in February 1969. Before this, he served as an assistant pastor at his father’s church in Burbank. He was also a sought-after conference speaker and representative for Talbot Theological Seminary. He graduated from the seminary with honors. Under MacArthur’s leadership, the church experienced remarkable growth, doubling in size every two years. The congregation moved from the Chapel to the newly built Family Center in 1971. This building now serves as the Gymnasium. In 1977, they moved into the current Worship Center. Additional buildings for teaching and fellowship have since been added to the ever-active campus. The church’s foundation rests not only on its physical structures but also on its spiritual pillars. These pillars are sound doctrine, spiritual leadership, and active service. This focus has been key to the continued growth and impact of Grace Chapel Church in Los Angeles.