Founded in 1887 the Iglesia de Santa Maria y Santa Marta boasts a rich history. Initially known as St John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church it served a German-speaking congregation. The church thrived for many years with over 600 members and a bustling Christian Bay School. This original building survived the devastating 1906 earthquake and fire. However the church’s location in the Mission District changed dramatically after World War II. German Italian and Irish families moved away. African-American and Latino families moved into the neighborhood.
In 1991 the Synod suggested the church embrace a new beginning. The congregation voted to serve the growing Latino population. They moved to a new building. The church was renamed Iglesia de Santa Maria y Santa Marta. The old building found a new life. It became the Hua Zang Si Temple a testament to the Mission District’s diverse culture. The original cornerstone remains. It bears a German inscription from the New Testament. Next to it a sign in Chinese promises spiritual growth.
The current Iglesia de Santa Maria y Santa Marta building dates from the 1960s. The sanctuary was built in 1996. The church also serves as a multi-use space. Dolores Street Community Services runs a homeless shelter within its walls. The church and building operate 24/7. The Iglesia de Santa Maria y Santa Marta stands as a vibrant symbol of faith adaptation and community service. It mirrors the ever-evolving Mission District. This wonderful mishmash of cultures continues to thrive. The Iglesia de Santa Maria y Santa Marta is a true embodiment of San Francisco’s spirit.