Gazing upon the Universal Church, one can’t help but feel a sense of history. The Universal Church, also known as the First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego, has stood as a beacon of progressive thought since 1873. It all began in Horton Hall, a testament to the city’s founder, Alonzo Horton. The Universal Church isn’t just a building. It is a living embodiment of the Unitarian Universalist principles. It embraces freedom of thought and encourages exploration of life’s big questions. What does life mean? How do we live with integrity? These questions resonate within the walls of the Universal Church. It’s a place where you don’t have to check your mind at the door. Instead, you’re invited to join a conversation. The church draws wisdom not just from traditional Jewish and Christian sources, but from world religions, nature, science, and modern thought. Today, the Universal Church serves San Diego with two campuses, continuing its mission of inclusivity and intellectual curiosity. The church’s history is intertwined with the city itself, its roots stretching back to San Diego’s early days. From its early meetings in Horton Hall to its current presence in Hillcrest, the Universal Church has consistently offered a unique voice of freedom, reason, and tolerance in San Diego. So, as you stand before the Universal Church, remember. It’s not just a place of worship. It is a place of exploration, questioning, and community.
Sweetwater River
From high in the Cuyamaca Mountains, the Sweetwater River begins its journey. It’s a 55-mile trek to the Pacific, a