Our History
The Beginning
Brea Congregational Church began on April 13, 1913, when a group of 15 people met to organize the Brea Congregational Sunday School. The first meetings were held in a pool hall with Mr. T. E. Moore acting as organizer, trustee, superintendent, and deacon. Moore was the first in a long list of people who dedicated themselves to the growth and prosperity of the church.
The Oil Man's Church
The cornerstone for a new church was laid on June 8, 1915, and the construction of the “Oil Man’s Church” began at the corner of Pomona Avenue (Brea Boulevard) and Birch Street. Building of the church was completed in August 1915, and a miniature replica of an oil derrick was mounted as a steeple. The oil derrick “steeple” was removed from the roof in 1917.
As church membership grew and more space was needed, the lot was sold to the Oil Field National Bank for $1,200. In 1927, a new plot of land was purchased for $6,000, and the church building was moved to its present location on Imperial Highway. The building was refurbished in Spanish style architecture, with arches and a red tile roof. The 1929 annual church review meeting, reported that all of the church facilities were in full use and greatly enjoyed.
The History of Our Church Bell
It is believed that the bell was also acquired in 1927. The bell was first used by the Brea Volunteer Fire Department and later installed at the Randolph Grammar School before being installed in the bell tower at Brea Congregational Church.
The Only Pipe Organ Left in Brea
In 1931, Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Shaffer purchased and dedicated a pipe organ in memory of their son, and Mr. Shaffer acted as the church organist until 1945.
The Brea Congregational Church evolved from New England Puritanical roots to the American west. It merged in 1957 with three other groups to form the United Church of Christ.
A ground breaking ceremony for a larger sanctuary to be built on the same site took place on June 6, 1960, and the doors of the new building were opened for the first service in January 1961. The pipe organ was moved to the new sanctuary, and is still the only pipe organ in Brea. Behind the grill work in the choir loft are 764 pipes and a set of chimes.
And the Last 40 Years . . .
1965 - The Christian Education Building (currently Pilgrim Preschool) was completed
1979 - A “Burn the Mortgage” ceremony was held when BCC was 66 years old.
1985 – Rev. Rick Marshall installed as Pastor
1988 – Brea Congregational celebrates its 75th year of ministry
2005 – In January, Rev. Dr. Jeanyne Stettom installed as Associate Pastor
2005 – The church celebrates Pastor Rick’s 20 year anniversary
2008 – Brea Congregational becomes a UCC “Open and Affirming” hospitality based community of faith.
2009 – In April of this year we dedicated our new Green Garden.