Community Congregational United Church of Christ - Los Alamitos, California

Jess ?. P. G.

UPDATE: Sadly, this church is no longer a safe space for trans and queer progressive folks.

I worked here as the Music/Creative Director for over three years with Pastor Sam Pullen. Honestly, I loved it. The work we did, even though it wasn’t always easy trying to bridge generations through education and communication felt meaningful. Working alongside someone with such a genuine desire to serve the community made it all the more fulfilling. But over the past year, things started to change. Sam eventually left, and it became clear that there were deeper issues within the leadership.

I saw firsthand how some of the staff and volunteers were being treated unfairly, and it was heartbreaking. The leadership’s focus seemed to shift toward a more capitalistic approach, where the church wasn’t seen as a place for everyone anymore, especially if you couldn’t tithe or didn’t fit into a certain mold. It was supposed to be a safe place for queer people, but that promise was quickly broken.

I saw people voicing their concerns only to be ignored, mistreated, and even harassed. I couldn’t stand by and watch anymore. Almost 20 people some who had been there for over a decade were hurting and just wanted to be heard.

I get that progressive ministry is tough, but if we’re not willing to do the hard work of deconstructing toxic practices around capitalism and church, we’ll keep repeating these harmful patterns, no matter how many rainbow flags we put outside our buildings.

PREVIOUS REVIEW- “I feel entirely safe to be my whole trans non-binary, queer, biracial self in this space. Feeling like I can explore more about what faith means to me surrounded by a diversity of denominational backgrounds and intergenerational wisdom of all ages. Love it!”

FERN D.

My Husband's Celebration of Life was held there. As a non-member of the Church (or Daughters are members), I was greeted by a VERY welcoming Minister who made me feel very welcome and accommodated my every wish. By the time our Service was over, I felt the Minister (Pastor Sam) had made our guests feel extremely comfortable and welcome. What a beautiful gift for us all. God Bless Pastor Sam for the comfort and love he provided to all. This Church is a wonderful representation of a good member of that community.

Barbara F.

This such a warm and welcoming Church. Pastor Sam is a breath of fresh air. The music program is just wonderful and uplifting. I recommend this church to everyone looking to enrich their spiritual life.

Rose R.

I love everything about this church. The people are friendly, the music lovely, and the pastor's messages are always insightful and encouraging. I can't think of a happier place to be on Sunday morning.

Jonathan S.

Beautiful, welcoming church! Great for families and very informal!

Diane L.

If you truly want to Seek God, Include All, and Serve Others, CCUCC is a place to start. It has a warm, family feel... acceptance, harmony, an attitude to do good, and an extravagant welcome.

Ronda H.

A very welcoming pastor and congregation!

Michael W.

Great place to worship and serve others. All are welcome.