As a community of faith, it means something to have deep roots and strong spiritual heritage. Grace Bible Church was founded in 1876 as Cumberland Presbyterian Church, later renamed First Presbyterian Church. Grace Bible was the first Presbyterian church in the entire state of California, and it was the first Protestant church on the Central Coast.

We’ve been here a long time, serving the world. For context, also in 1876, Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone. In 1879, Thomas Edison filed a patent for the light bulb. Forget reading Scripture on a tablet or phone (which we love to do) – early services and meetings at Grace Bible Church were candlelit. There definitely weren’t any ringers to turn off.

100 years later, in 1980, after a full century of growth, ministry, and impact, the church adopted its current name, Grace Bible Church. Our commitment to loving God and one another remained the same, and the church itself remained an independent church until joining the Evangelical Free Church of America in 1988. We’ve now been a member of EFCA for nearly 30 years.

Why EFCA? The Evangelical Free Church of America is one of the fastest growing and most respected denominations in the country. It’s known for a commitment to Scripture; for allowing diversity on minor issues while keeping unity on major ones; for a strong missions concern; and for granting each local church complete freedom to govern itself. It’s a wonderful fit for us.

Now pressing forward in the 21st century, Grace Bible Church ministers to approximately 1,000 people each week, with a steady membership of 550. Following Christ’s example and walking in the footsteps of Grace Bible members throughout history, we aim to minister across cultural and linguistic lines, to every age group in our local community and to the ends of the earth.

Our programs have updated over time – manned flight makes a missions trip a little easier, and the Internet, wireless communication, and social media provide new ways to minister and love – but we will always be the same church that started here long ago, dedicated to service. We’re rooted deep in fellowship and carrying a torch into the future. Always with eyes on Christ.