Who We Are

The Highland Congregational Church began as an adult Sunday School, founded in 1882. Meetings were held in a small, one-room school building in East Highland, California. Before long, 38 people were attending, and on April 27, the congregation adopted the name Highland Church of Christ. In 1886, the 27 members decided to build an honest-to goodness church on Base Line. Members stayed in that location for ten years, when the congregation voted, in 1896, to move a few miles north into the area where the town of Highland was developing.  People rejoiced to have electricity and water at the new location! A parsonage was built, and church membership grew.
    Nearly, two-thirds of the church was destroyed by fire in 1941, but services continued elsewhere during rebuilding. Fortunately the organ was saved and is still used in the chapel today. In 1961, the congregation voted to affiliate with the United Church of Christ. The following years saw a growth in membership until the sanctuary was over-crowded. Members voted to build a traditional church representing our Pilgrim heritage, and on Sunday, October 13, 1963, the present colonial church at Palm and Atlantic Avenues was dedicated. The church has always been concerned with meeting the needs of the community. Varied programs are planned to dynamically involve all members and age groups.  Community involvement is encouraged through participation in such activities as annual Pancake Breakfasts and Spaghetti Dinners. The Day Care Program consistently receives high praise throughout the area.