Our Story

In 1992, a merger took place between St. James and 65 members from True Light and other families, forming a core group of 100, to become a joint ministry called San Gabriel Presbyterian Church.

True Light had its roots as a mission church known as The First Chinese Presbyterian Church, formed in 1876, with its beginnings in the Chinatown area of Los Angeles. The bilingual Church later settled on Adam Blvd, in 1939, then merged with 2nd Presbyterian Church on Griffin Ave. (Lincoln Heights area) in May 1967 and became known as True Light Presbyterian Church.

St. James Presbyterian Church was established in 1944, meeting at the San Gabriel Women’s Club House. As their congregation grew, they purchased the property on Las Tunas Blvd. and built the Fellowship Hall where worship services were held in 1949. In March 1958, the current Sanctuary was dedicated for worship.

San Gabriel Presbyterian Church continues its Mission of being committed to bringing people to Christ, connecting them with God’s family, growing them in their faith and to encouraging them to love God and love others with all of their lives. After 32 faithful years of operating as San Gabriel Presbyterian Church, there was a shared sense of needing renewal within our church and our mission. Hence, a committee was formed and after much prayer, Renewal SGV was birthed.

Renewal SGV

Historically, names were given with great intention and meaning in the days of Moses and Abraham, and in the days of the disciples. While we still find much sentiment and meaning in the name “San Gabriel Presbyterian Church”, as we felt that a restart of our church was needed, we found that a new name could serve as a marker and beacon of desired change and growth as we press forward seeking Christ and serving Him.

The name “Renewal SGV” was created to serve as a reminder to our church family that we have been given new life through Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17), and can only find renewal through Christ alone (Romans 12:2, Ephesians 4:22-24). We need Him and renewal in Him every day.

It is also a reminder that we hope to help see this renewal in Christ for those around us–for our neighbors, in our communities, our cities, our nation, in the world.