Azusa, CA is a hidden gem that boasts of its lively, diverse, suburban, progressive and familyoriented community. Nestled in the San Gabriel Valley on the eastern edge of Los Angeles County, its home to people from different ethnic backgrounds and religious beliefs.
One of the best ways to experience this vibrant culture is through exploring the citys sacred sites. Here are some places you should not miss:
1) The Hsi Lai Temple (3456 Glenmark Dr., Hacienda Heights) This temple is one of the largest Buddhist temples in North America and offers visitors a beautiful insight into Chinese Mahayana Buddhism. Visitors can participate in meditation classes or simply admire the stunning architecture adorned with intricate carvings.
2) Foothills Community Church (1775 N. Indian Hill Blvd.) Built in 1928 as part of Claremont Colleges School Of Religion program by architects John Austin and Frederic M. Ashley as a place for interfaith dialogues between Christians,Jews,Muslims,and others,the church now offers an open space for quiet reflection amidst nature where one can walk along its welltended garden path surrounded by oak trees.
3) St Frances of Rome Catholic Church (501 E Foothill Blvd) Founded over 60 years ago by Italian immigrants who were seeking spiritual solace ,this church still holds various services including masses celebrated both in English and Spanish which reflects its rich heritage that recognises diversity within unity itself!
4) La Puente First United Methodist Church (15701 E Gale Ave., City Of Industry) This church exhibits how Methodism has evolved across time reflecting different social contexts drawing insights from Wesleyan doctrines while engaging with contemporary issues .It also gives visitors access to an array of ministries such as youth programs,bible study groups,charities etc making it stand out .
5) The KOREAN AMERICAN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH ( 1140 W Foothill Blvd) This church is a place of pride for the citys KoreanAmerican community and serves as an anchor for their religious and cultural identity. A unique feature of this church is its use of technology in worship services such as livestreaming sermons, making it more accessible to anyone interested.
Apart from these places, Azusa also has smaller churches and hidden sacred spaces that showcase the rich spiritual heritage of the community. One such space worth exploring is a small shrine called The Miracle Cross on Orange Grove Avenue where people leave flowers, candles, and notes praying for miracles.
Azusa may not be known for its religious significance at first glance but beneath its suburban exterior lies a deeprooted culture that values diverse spirituality. So if youre looking to explore something different than what Los Angeles tourist circuits offer then head down to Azusa theres no better way to experience Californias rich heritage!
Websites:
Hsi Lai Temple https://www.hsilai.org/en/
Foothills Community Church https://foothillscp.org/
St Frances Of Rome Catholic Church http://stfrancesofrome.com/Parish.html
La Puente First United Methodist Church https://www.facebook.com/LaPuenteUMC
Korean American Presbyterian Churchhttp://kapca.org/main/eng_01.php
Twitter:
Hsi Lai Temple @hsilaitemple
3456 Glenmark Dr.
Hacienda Heights, CA
United States
1775 N. Indian Hill Blvd. Ca
Azusa, CA
United States
501 E Foothill Blvd Ca
Azusa, CA
United States
15701 E Gale Ave.
City Of Industry, CA
United States
1140 W Foothill Blvd Ca
Azusa, CA
United States