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A Congregation Takes Root in Rancho Park
In 1949, sixty seven men and women from Rancho Park and nearby neighborhoods gathered with a vision; they wanted to form a new Presbyterian church in their community. Like many early congregations, they began modestly, worshiping in homes and borrowed spaces.
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Later that year, the fledgling congregation made a bold purchase; 2.56 acres of land at the corner of National Boulevard and Military Avenue.
The price was $45,000, and it secured a permanent home. For several years worship continued in temporary quarters, but on November 25, 1962, the congregation dedicated the sanctuary that is still used today.
The Giant Fig Tree That Became a Symbol
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If you have ever driven down National Boulevard, you have likely noticed the enormous Moreton Bay Fig tree that shades the sanctuary. ​
It was planted in 1875 by the property’s original owner in honor of his firstborn son, and it predates the church itself by more than seven decades.
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In 1963, the City of Los Angeles declared it Historic Cultural Monument No. 19; today it remains a beloved community landmark, and it serves as a symbol of St. John’s that is both rooted and enduring.
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Nurturing Generations of Families
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Children and youth have always been central to the church’s ministry. Sunday School began alongside the congregation itself, and in October 1950 the Youth Program officially launched.
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By 1966, St. John’s opened its Nursery School, and nearly two decades later, in 1985, an Extended Day Care program followed. Families have always been at the heart of St. John’s, for they remain an essential part of the mission and identity of the church.
The property as it was purchased in 1949
“Our campus has always been more than buildings; it is a gathering place where faith, community, and service come together.”
St. John’s Presbyterian Church
Guided by Pastors Through the Decades
Over the years, St. John’s has been led by eight pastors and five interim pastors. Each shepherd brought unique gifts, and each helped guide the church through times of growth, transition, and renewal.
The pastors held fast to the congregation’s mission of worship, service, and discipleship, for they knew the importance of pointing people to Christ.
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More Than a Church Building
From the beginning, St. John’s has seen its campus as more than just property; it has been a home base for countless groups and organizations that serve the wider community.
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Civic partners have included Alcoholics Anonymous, Scouts, the Red Cross, the Westside Village Civic Association, Clover Elementary School, and both the Mar Vista and Westwood Homeowners Associations.
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Faith partners have also shared the space, including Redeemer Baptist Church, Adat Shalom Congregation, Shin Il Korean Presbyterian Church, and Vineyard Christian Fellowship. St. John’s has always understood that buildings can be used for ministry, but they can also be shared with neighbors who need a place to gather.
A Congregation of Creativity and Service
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What sets St. John’s apart is not only its programs, but also the creativity and devotion of its members. Over the decades, men and women have poured themselves into ministry; they formed fellowship and study groups, they taught Sunday School, and they served through outreach.
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The sanctuary itself reflects this spirit, for handcrafted banners, chancel pew seatbacks, pulpit decorations, and kneelers made by members adorn the worship space. Their gifts of time, talent, and financial support have sustained missions, benevolence, and the continued care of the church campus.
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Looking Ahead
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Through it all, one theme has remained constant; St. John’s is a congregation rooted in Christ’s love, called to grow as disciples, and eager to bear the Good News of Jesus Christ.
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In March 2016, affirming its evangelical convictions, the Session of St. John’s voted to affiliate with The Fellowship Community, which is a renewal movement within the Presbyterian Church (USA).
St. John’s Story At A Glance
1875
A Moreton Bay Fig tree is planted on the property by the original owner in honor of his firstborn son.
1950
The Youth Program begins. St. John’s made ministry to children and youth a priority.
1963
The Moreton Bay Fig tree is declared Historic Cultural Monument No. 19 by the City of Los Angeles.
1985
Recognizing the needs of working parents and families, St. John’s launched an Extended Day Care program in 1985.
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2016
The Session of St. John’s votes to affiliate with The Fellowship Community, an evangelical group within the Presbyterian Church
1949
67 individuals from Rancho Park and surrounding communities found St. John’s Presbyterian Church. Property purchased at National Blvd. & Military Ave. — 2.56 acres for $45,000.
1962
After years of worshiping in temporary spaces on church property, the congregation celebrated the dedication of its permanent sanctuary on November 25, 1962.
1966
St. John’s Nursery School opens. St. John’s expanded its ministry to the youngest members of the community by opening a nursery school.
1990s
St. John’s continues to grow ministries: Mothers’ Groups, Book Groups, Men’s Study Groups, fellowship groups, music programs, and outreach.
A Living Legacy
From its earliest days in borrowed halls to its present role as a neighborhood landmark, St. John’s Presbyterian has been more than a building; it has been a family of faith, committed to Christ and committed to its community. Like the great fig tree that towers above its sanctuary, the church’s roots run deep, and its branches stretch wide, so the story continues to grow.
