How It All Started
In 1874, Charles Maclay purchased 56,000 acres of land that had long been the traditional territory of the Fernandeño Tataviam people.
In 1885, he took a third of that land and founded a Methodist seminary in the newly established town of San Fernando,
along with what would become First United Methodist Church of San Fernando.
From the beginning, this community was rooted in faith, learning, and a desire to serve its neighbors.
In 1885, he took a third of that land and founded a Methodist seminary in the newly established town of San Fernando,
along with what would become First United Methodist Church of San Fernando.
From the beginning, this community was rooted in faith, learning, and a desire to serve its neighbors.
Growing Through Education
In 1950, our current campus was established with a vision that included both worship and education—forming people in faith across every stage of life.
That vision took shape in 1962 with the founding of Wooden Shoe Preschool, created to nurture the whole child—mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. From the beginning, children have been welcomed into an environment where they are known, loved, and reminded of their infinite worth.
In the years that followed, that commitment expanded through Glenoaks Christian Elementary School in the 90s, and, more recently, a full Middle School—extending opportunities for growth and discipleship for the next generation.
Today, our campus is more than a place for Sunday worship. It is a place where faith and learning come together every day, shaping lifelong learners and disciples of Jesus Christ.
That vision took shape in 1962 with the founding of Wooden Shoe Preschool, created to nurture the whole child—mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. From the beginning, children have been welcomed into an environment where they are known, loved, and reminded of their infinite worth.
In the years that followed, that commitment expanded through Glenoaks Christian Elementary School in the 90s, and, more recently, a full Middle School—extending opportunities for growth and discipleship for the next generation.
Today, our campus is more than a place for Sunday worship. It is a place where faith and learning come together every day, shaping lifelong learners and disciples of Jesus Christ.
Expanding the vision
Today, we continue this story as a multi-generational, multi-cultural church family, growing in faith together and seeking to follow Jesus in everyday life.
Rooted in a legacy of worship, learning, and service, we remain committed to forming people of all ages—especially children and families—as lifelong learners and disciples of Jesus Christ. Whether through Sunday worship, our schools, or the relationships we build, we believe faith is something we live and grow into together.
We welcome all into our church—all means all. Whoever you are, and wherever you are on your journey, there is a place for you here.
Rooted in a legacy of worship, learning, and service, we remain committed to forming people of all ages—especially children and families—as lifelong learners and disciples of Jesus Christ. Whether through Sunday worship, our schools, or the relationships we build, we believe faith is something we live and grow into together.
We welcome all into our church—all means all. Whoever you are, and wherever you are on your journey, there is a place for you here.
