The First Unitarian Church of San José, Richardsonian Romanesque church in downtown San Jose, United States
The First Unitarian Church is a Richardsonian Romanesque building located in downtown San Jose that serves as the main worship space for the congregation. The sanctuary features curved architectural elements, a mahogany pulpit, and numerous stained glass windows that surround the central area.
The congregation started holding services at San Jose City Hall in 1865 and purchased the current building in 1888. After a fire damaged the structure in 1995, a major renovation restored the space for ongoing use.
The Third Street Community Center within the church provides educational and social programs that serve families of Latin American descent in the area. These offerings reflect the congregation's commitment to the broader neighborhood beyond worship.
Regular Sunday services are held that include hymns, welcoming remarks, and a dedicated time for sharing personal experiences called Joys and Sorrows. The location in downtown makes it accessible to visitors who want to explore the building and its spaces.
A red and gold labyrinth marks the center of the sanctuary and serves as a gathering space for children during story time and for meditation. This feature uniquely combines religious practice with activities that engage younger visitors.
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