The growing congregation of the Japanese Methodist Episcopal Mission of Los Angeles had a new house of worship at 1120 Georgia St. in 1906.

Centenary United Methodist Church was organized in 1896 as the Methodist Episcopal Mission of Los Angeles and met in a small cottage at 252 Winston St. For the new immigrants from Japan and their families, it was a place not only to grow their faith but a way of maintaining cultural connections and finding community as they adapted to this new land.

After regular worship and study, the mission members held outdoor evening services in Little Tokyo that grew the congregation. Because of prejudice and racial covenants, Centenary was unable to construct a church building until 1925. In its new home at the corner of 35thand Normandie, the congregation grew and expanded its ministry.

With the World War II removal of Japanese Americans from the West Coast, Centenary closed its doors. At war’s end, it reopened as a hostel for those returning to Los Angeles. The rhythms of church life gradually returned to normal. Centenary became a center for spiritual growth and family activity. 

Centenary Methodist Episcopal Church held its consecration service on July 11, 1926 at 35th and Normandie.

Over time, a restlessness to return to its birthplace took hold. After much prayer and conversation, the decision was made to build a new church building in Little Tokyo. Maryknoll Catholic Church graciously offered to share their facilities with Centenary during construction.

In 1988, Centenary returned to its historical roots, building a multi-purpose unit at Third and Central. The Sanctuary and Chapel were completed in time for its 100thanniversary. Centenary continues to be a place of faith-building, community involvement, cultural connections, mission, and growing racial and cultural diversity.

Centenary United Methodist Church will forever be grateful to Maryknoll Catholic Church, which opened its doors to Centenary from July 1985 to Sept. 25, 1988.

A physical journey that spanned 125 years. A spiritual journey that continues as Centenary celebrates with a 125thAnniversary Luncheon at the Anaheim Majestic Garden Hotel on Saturday, Oct. 15 (https://www.centenarydtla.org/product-page/125th-anniversary-luncheon), and Anniversary Worship Service with Bishop Grant Hagiya preaching on Sunday, Oct. 16, at 10 a.m. (https://www.centenarydtla.org/bookings-checkout/english-sunday-worship-in-person/book).

For more historical perspectives and information about the 125thAnniversary Celebration, go to centenarydtla.org.

Returning to its roots in Little Tokyo, Centenary is now at the corner of 3rd and Central.