In 1906 the city of Glendale, California was born. A small Presbyterian congregation had already been at work in the community for 22 years. Twelve people gathered in 1884, in what was then the town of "Riverdale," to form a new Presbyterian church. As the town grew, so did the congregation. From 1911 to 1937, when Glendale became known as the "fastest growing city in America," the church grew from 197 to over 3000 members.
In 1923, the congregation relocated to our current location at Harvard and Louise. The new clock tower was the tallest structure in the city.
Prior to World War II, Glendale Presbyterian Church was one of the community's leading institutions. Following the war, it continued to grow, and became an important influence in the denomination. During the turbulent sixties, it was known for its vigorous education ministry, and its growing involvement in world mission.
In the 1970’s, GPC was famous for its powerful pulpit. The ‘80’s marked innovative ministries of prayer and spiritual development. In the ‘90’s, GPC drew people to Glendale because of its extraordinary teaching ministry. Over the years GPC provided the larger church a number of Christian ministers, missionaries and educators. “Graduates” of our church serve on college campuses, in congregations and with various ministries around the world. Sixty-seven ministers, missionaries and other Christian workers have come from GPC. As the city around us has changed, so too has the congregation. We realize with new energy that every member needs to be understood as a trained and equipped missionary within a multi-cultural, post-modern society. Even as we experience transition into a new era, these GPC values remain vital:
A strong Bible based pulpit ministry
Challenging education opportunities
Strong support for local and world-wide mission
Fidelity to the Bible as God’s Word to us