Our Journey
Ojai United Methodist Church
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Ojai United Methodist Church been serving the Ojai Valley since 1957. What began with an organizational meeting and early worship services at the Ojai Arts Center grew into a vibrant congregation, with 42 charter members joining on Palm Sunday in 1958. After purchasing land along Maricopa Highway, the church completed its sanctuary in 1960 and held its first Easter services there, with windows looking toward the mountains that frame Ojai.
From its early years, Ojai UMC has sought to be more than a Sunday gathering place. The church has long supported the wider community through worship, fellowship, education, and service, including outreach to low-income neighbors, support for refugees, and partnership in local ministries such as the Ojai Valley Family Shelter. Noah’s Ark Preschool opened in 1983, and a second education building was dedicated in 1990 to meet growing childcare needs.
Since 1957, Ojai United Methodist Church has been part of the spiritual and civic life of the Ojai Valley. From its first worship services at the Ojai Arts Center to the building and rebuilding of its sanctuary, Ojai UMC has sought to reflect God’s love through worship, service, hospitality, and care for the community. Today, that legacy continues in our mission and vision: reflecting God’s love by worshipping together, serving God, caring for one another, and celebrating the diversity of God’s beloved children as a welcoming faith community.
