Historic Pasadena Church’s Legacy Takes Spotlight in Documentary Screening at Landmark Venue

Pasadena Heritage will present First United Methodist Church of Pasadena, a cornerstone institution that predates the city’s founding, in a sesquicentennial documentary at the historic Blinn House this month.

The screening of “Building on Faith – The First 150 Years” marks a significant milestone for the church, which has been interwoven with Pasadena’s development since 1874.

“The church was founded in 1874, so we were here before the city was founded,” said Rev. Amy Aitken, the church’s senior pastor. “In fact, some of our charter members signed the charter for the city of Pasadena.”

The documentary screening on Saturday, Dec. 28 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. will include a question-and-answer session with filmmaker Eric Tyson at the Blinn House.

Having occupied four different campuses throughout its history, the church’s current neo-gothic structure has stood at 500 E. Colorado Blvd. since 1924, marking its fifth and present location.

The sanctuary features distinctive Roy C. Baillie stained glass windows, a magnificent Rose Window on its south wall, an EM Skinner organ, and an English college gothic style chapel across its five-building campus.

“I think of this building, all of these buildings, five buildings on the campus, and that these are a tremendous legacy and commitment from those who came before us to offer an enduring presence in the city of Pasadena,” Rev. Aitken said.

The church maintains its architectural and cultural prominence on Colorado Blvd. where it has witnessed decades of community events and celebrations, including the city’s famed Rose Parade.

“Every day we have visitors that come into the sanctuary that come to view it,” Rev. Aitken said. “Of course we sit right on Colorado Boulevard, and so I have pictures of the parade going back to the 20s when we moved here.”

The documentary screening, part of the church’s broader 150th anniversary celebrations, is complemented by a Churches of Pasadena walking tour on the same day.

First United Methodist Church, which identifies as a Reconciling Congregation welcoming all persons regardless of background, continues to hold weekly Sunday worship services at 10 a.m.

Tickets for the documentary screening are $17.79. To buy tickets, go to  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/first-united-methodist-church-fumc-documentary-screening-tickets-1096375150589.

The event takes place at 160 N. Oakland Ave.