“The Little Church That Could.” That’s the moniker affectionately given to Topanga Christian Fellowship. For almost 70 years, this humble church has stood as a welcoming beacon in the community.
Since 1993, Topanga Christian Fellowship has resided in this historic building. It is an official California Point of Historic Interest. Though the name evolved, the mission remained steadfast. It provides a spiritual home for Topanga residents.
Topanga Christian Fellowship operates as a non-profit. It is governed by a Trustee board. CEO Patricia Moore-Joshi and CFO Ellie Carroll are part of it. Many volunteers contribute too.
The church embraces a non-denominational Christian philosophy. It focuses on the teachings of Jesus. It avoids hierarchy or ritual. All are welcome through its doors. Three ordained ministers alternate at the weekly Sunday service at 10:30 a.m. The sanctuary is plain. But it is always filled with flowers.
Diamond, a congregation member, creates the flower arrangements each Sunday. She visits the Los Angeles flower market every Saturday morning. Diamond considers it her gift. Services feature “Joyful Noise” singers. A variety of instruments accompany them. These range from guitar and keyboard to banjo and ukulele.
The music is a mix. Contemporary Christian, mountain music, and gospel are all played here. Southern gospel is particularly popular.
Beyond services, Topanga Christian Fellowship hosts many events. These include Bible study, weddings, and memorials. The Theatricum Botanicum and Topanga Symphony use the space for rehearsals. Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous meet here regularly. The church hall hosts concerts, lectures, and film screenings. It even serves as a Red Cross evacuation shelter. It welcomes both people and their pets in emergencies.
The After-Thanksgiving Potluck is an annual tradition in the fall. It is a Gratitude Gathering with fun, family and fellowship. In the spring, the church holds a Blessing of the Animals. The church welcomes everyone. Some deeply troubled people have found solace here. One visitor described it as walking into a warm hug.
Pastor John Utterback and his wife Florence had a dream. They wanted to create this church. They started a Sunday school in 1932. This school led to the church’s incorporation in 1943.
The New England-style church building was finished in 1953. A bell was added. This 250-pound bell still rings on special occasions. It came from a Dutch Reform church in Lebanon, Pennsylvania. The bell may have been cast in Europe as early as the 17th century.
The bell pull hangs beneath a wooden sign. It is carved with the message. “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord.” Visitors are welcome to ring the bell. The neighbors know when they hear it at odd hours that visitors are here. The sound and feel of the bell leave a lasting impression.
Topanga Christian Fellowship is located at 269 Old Topanga Canyon Road. Sunday services start at 10:30 a.m. with the ringing of the church bell. The church is a California Point of Historic Interest since 1993. It is a place where anyone can experience the Lord. Its ancient teachings apply to today’s chaos.