It seems as if a church is planted on every corner of every block in Jefferson Park. The juxtaposition of church crosses and local storefronts serves as a familiar pattern throughout the South Los Angeles community. Therefore it is impossible to miss a church at any given moment while walking down Jefferson Boulevard. An unspoken understanding of the importance of religion in shaping the area’s history resides within each and every one of these buildings.
Some of the crosses are held higher to the heavens when compared to the others; some of the churches are not officially recognized as legitimate institutions at all. Yet, the prominence of religion in this area remains the most consistent factor and appeal. The welcoming banners decorate the churches’ facades. The buildings themselves seem to replicate any other local business, but instead, the historic implications provide a much more liberating experience than the multiple local liquor stores.
Given the large African American population, the majority of the churches are specified as Christian establishments. With each and every church, the specificity of Christianity is defined and particularity is offered. Ranging from big to small, lesser know to century-old churches, Jefferson Park can be interpreted as a distinctly religious community.
Once considered Los Angeles’ wealthiest neighborhood, Jefferson Park is a community with a rich history. Religious interests and pursuits date back to the late 19th century. The First African Methodist Episcopal Church, founded by African Americans, is located in the area. The church, recognized as the oldest African American church, dates back to the 1870’s. As a historical landmark, the First A.M.E is reputed as the benchmark for all the prominent African American churches to come.
Another notable historic landmark is the Trinity Baptist Church. With its origins in the early 1900s, Trinity Baptist Church became recognized as the first church in the area to be built and owned solely by African Americans. The chapel, built brick by brick through sheer manpower, still exists in its intact form.
Although African American churchgoers had the first and major influences on Jefferson Park’s religion scene, the surge of the Latino community in the area also resulted in the introduction of Hispanic churches. Not as prominent or old as these African American establishments, the Hispanic churches are much smaller and lesser known and yet provide the same religious services (also in Spanish) on Sundays to the large number of Latino neighbors.
There are also establishments such as the Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, which serves as the only Catholic institution. The church also doubles as a school for students in kindergarten to eighth grade. This represents an interesting concept to the community: a junction of religion and education.
Whether it is for peace of mind or tradition, attending church on Sunday in Jefferson Park is an activity that the local inhabitants have practiced for many years. Once inside the chapel, the sounds of worship muffle and replace the sound of loud cars zooming on Jefferson Boulevard. The Sunday church attire brings a warm tone as members of the community gather to share the good word and ask how each and every family member is doing.
Religion has had its definite influence in the origins of America but as time permitted, the people would prefer freedom of religion. As sensitive as the topic of religion is, the people of Jefferson Park would, without hesitation, ask you what church you belong to and regardless, ask if you can join them for service on Sunday.
There are so many crosses and American flags in Jefferson Park. It gives the area an old-fashioned charm and echoes the community’s effort to preserve its history through encouraging regular church attendance.
Church crosses face the rows of palm trees in this neighborhood. The businesses will come and go and the area will continue to improve, and yet the churches have their permanence. They serve as historical monuments, solidifying the relationship between religion and the community.