“A little company at Los Angeles” That’s how E J Waggoner described the early Seventh Day Adventist Church in Los Angeles in 1884. Before that small beginnings were made in 1874 when John B Judson became the first ordained minister in Southern California. William Healey held tent meetings in downtown Los Angeles in 1879. This laid the foundation for the first Adventist church in Southern California. It later became known as the Central church. The church wasn’t just about preaching. In 1896 a vegetarian restaurant and medical treatment rooms opened on Third Street. This innovative approach to evangelism reflected the Adventist holistic view of health and well-being. A second church group formed in Norwalk. It was the first to build a church building in the area. Other churches soon followed in Los Angeles San Pedro and Pasadena.
The Seventh Day Adventist Church in Los Angeles grew significantly with the arrival of William Ward Simpson in 1904. He was a highly successful evangelist. His creative presentations attracted large crowds. His tent meetings drew some 2000 people. Over 200 people were baptized as a direct result of his work. Ellen White a prominent Adventist leader was impressed by Simpson’s success. She wrote letters encouraging him and suggesting others adopt his methods. She even visited Los Angeles to support his work personally speaking to a crowd of about a thousand people. Sadly Simpson died young in 1907 at only 34 leaving behind a wife and three children.
The Seventh Day Adventist Church in Los Angeles continued to thrive. Other evangelists such as Luther Warren and J W McCord took over Simpson’s work. The church expanded its mission to reach diverse communities. Jennie Ireland a nurse pioneered medical missionary work among the Black population. The Furlong later Wadsworth Seventh-day Adventist church was organized in 1908 thanks to her efforts. The church also reached out to the Hispanic community. Augusta E De Angeles became the first full-time Hispanic worker. The Los Angeles Gless Street church was established in 1909.
The Seventh Day Adventist Church in Los Angeles became a significant religious and social institution. It played a key role in the development of the city. Its impact extended beyond religious services. It influenced the community through its schools hospitals and social programs. The church’s commitment to health and wellness is still evident today. It continues to be an active part of the Los Angeles community. The legacy of those early pioneers and the ongoing dedication of its members continue to shape its identity and mission.