The first Open and Affirming congregation of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Southern California, University Christian Church at 3900 Cleveland Ave has anchored the corner of Richmond and Cleveland since its founding on September 30, 1906. The congregation established Hillcrest Preschool in 1970 as part of its childcare ministry, and the program continues to operate on the church campus in the 92103 ZIP code. In 2019, the church added United Church of Christ affiliation, formalizing a dual-denominational identity that bridges two mainline Protestant traditions. Environmental stewardship, recognized through its Green Chalice Congregation designation, connects with climate-focused organizations such as Hammond Climate Solutions Foundation in Hillcrest. The current sanctuary, constructed in 1952, anchors a campus hosting over 1,000 weekly visitors through partner organizations, an Artist-in-Residence program, and worship programming that draws from both Disciples and UCC liturgical traditions.