Two years ago, in late August, the Los Angeles Times published an article about Third Church of Christ, Scientist, Los Angeles titled, “Downtown church keeps the city’s mayhem at bay – one service at a time.”
The article shares how this LA church is a place of peace and offers a promise of hope, which the writer goes on to say is “a rare commodity on the struggling and hardened streets of downtown Los Angeles.”
Third Church member, Jeffrey Taylor, shared some recent updates with the Prayer that Heals team. Taylor was glad to report that in the last few months, there has been an increase in attendance at services – some people completely new, some who drifted from their practice of Christian Science and have now returned to continue in their faith.
But Taylor isn’t as concerned about the numbers as he is that people feel welcome and enjoy the spiritual atmosphere. Churchgoers find it refreshing that they’re free to discover their unique relationship to God, in an inviting space with church members who support individual spiritual growth.
Taylor went on to tell us how prayer and thoughtful care for the building contribute to the peaceful and uplifting atmosphere felt upon walking in. Taylor and his wife, Deborah Johnson, began to renovate and refurbish the building many years ago — starting with a simple table from Ikea to adding a new electrical system, refurbishing the stained glass windows, painting the ceilings, and adding comfortable pews. Every detail was considered with care to provide a comfortable space for prayer and spiritual discovery.
The church also extends its love beyond its building. They deliver copies of the Christian Science Bible Lesson to those who are unable to make it to church services, but are seeking spiritual inspiration.
There has been much fruitage from new attendees. One recent newcomer shared during a Wednesday night service that with everything being so expensive now, he’s grateful that “knowing God is free!”
If you’re curious to visit this LA church, Third Church is open to all and warmly welcomes you at 730 South Hope Street. The church also invites Spanish-speakers to a lively Sunday service and chat in Spanish via Zoom at 1:00 p.m. PT. LaOracionQueSana.org/Zoom
To read the LA Times article, see link below:
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