Saint Nicholas Episcopal Church

Nestled in Encino, the San Fernando Valley’s first Episcopal congregation, Saint Nicholas Episcopal Church, has a rich history. It all began in 1938. Reverend Harley Wright Smith, a man with a vision, sought to establish a church dedicated to St. Nicholas of Myra, the patron saint of children. The story goes that while attending the Santa Claus Lane Parade in Hollywood, a little girl asked him if Santa Claus had a church. Reverend Smith’s reply? “Yes, and it is named St. Nicholas Church, and I’m going to build it.” Saint Nicholas Episcopal Church’s first service was held on January 8, 1939. The location? Edward Everett Horton’s barn. This makeshift sanctuary served as a testament to the dedication of Reverend Smith and his growing congregation. The church’s permanent home at 17114 Ventura Blvd was secured thanks to the generosity of Dr. O.C. Wellbourn and his wife. The church building itself, completed in 1941, was designed in the Spanish Colonial style. It echoes the historic missions of California. The initial construction was funded through small donations collected by Reverend Smith himself, demonstrating the community’s support for his vision. Even Hollywood celebrities like Warren William and Roy Rogers contributed. Later, actor Parley Baer, a parishioner of Saint Nicholas Episcopal Church, hosted radio and TV shows to raise funds for a parking lot and church expansion. Saint Nicholas Episcopal Church became known as “the children’s church” due to Reverend Smith’s fondness for children. The Sunday school flourished, drawing families to the church. The Boy Scouts, Troop 131, also found a home at Saint Nicholas Episcopal Church, further strengthening its community ties. In 1957, Saint Nicholas Episcopal Church underwent a significant expansion. A transept was added, creating a T-shaped structure. Impressive bronze doors depicting the Seven Sacraments were installed. These doors, Reverend Smith proclaimed, would stand as a testament to the church’s sacraments. The expanding church also included a new entryway, a creche, a shrine, and a columbarium. Later, stained-glass windows depicting St. Nicholas and scenes from the life of Christ were added. These additions transformed Saint Nicholas Episcopal Church into a stunning example of religious architecture. Reverend Smith retired in 1960 after 22 years of dedicated service. His legacy? A thriving parish and a church that continues to serve the community. Over the years, Saint Nicholas Episcopal Church has seen several rectors. Each has contributed to the church’s evolution. Reconfigurations of the sanctuary, a new pipe organ, and ongoing efforts to maintain the church’s Anglo-Catholic tradition mark its journey. Today, Saint Nicholas Episcopal Church continues its mission, offering services in English, Spanish, and Farsi, reflecting the diversity of the community it serves.