I do not usually write reviews, but I have been so affected by this church that I simply must let people know my story. I grew up going to this church (from 1998 to 2011), and my family still goes to this church. I remember as a young boy going to church every Sunday that there were a few sermons that stood out. In 2004 and 2005, there were a bunch of sermons that discussed homosexuality and how it is a "fallen" state of man. In fact, let me quote for you the exact words the preacher used (the transcripts are online). "Homosexuality is a sign of those who have fallen away from the Lord." "The homosexual will not inherit the Kingdom of God." "Sex is between a man and a woman in a lifelong relationship called marriage." "And if you struggle with homosexuality, I believe it's a call to celibacy, but a call to grace." Hearing these sermons as a young boy had a huge negative effect on me. It "branded" my mind like a hot-iron. I am not welcome. I am sinful and destined for hell. Growing up, I truly believed that I had demonic desires. Christianity and fear were inextricably linked. I was constantly asking for forgiveness for a thought that I had, or a glance at someone of the same sex that, possibly, was a few seconds too long. If you think the church has changed due to Pastor Drew Sams joining the church as head pastor, think again. Recently, another worshiper wrote a Yelp review about this church, dated 6/24/2014. In it, the person talks about how, in last Sunday's sermon, Pastor Drew Sams has decided to reject welcoming same-sex couples from getting married in the church. He has decided that people in same-sex relationships are living in unholy, unbiblical relationships that are not welcome in Bel Air Presbyterian Church. Upon stating this, many people in the congregation even started to applaud. This church is NOT SAFE for gay and lesbian Christians. What I find even more discomforting is the fact that young children in the congregation are being taught that homosexuality is sinful by Pastor Sams. I had mental health issues precisely because of that teaching. I hope and pray for the young, struggling lesbian and gay children who are sitting in those pews and listening to Pastor Sams tell them that their future relationships will be unholy, unbiblical, and unwelcome. They will never be able to get married to the person they love in their own church. They might have long-term psychological issues due to the internalization of Sams' homophobia. Most importantly, they might renounce Christianity as a direct result of Sams' unwelcome. I hope and pray that the church will soon change and align itself with Jesus' love. I, sadly, cannot return to that church. If you are an LGBT Christian and are looking for a welcoming church, please realize that there are so many churches in Los Angeles that will welcome you and your relationships, and will bless them. Many Episcopal churches are similarly welcoming. I encourage you to not lose hope based on this one church, and instead allow yourself to be embraced by the many Christian churches who are extending their arms to you. We want you with us.

I'm posting this in direct opposition to one I just read, that happens to be the one shown on the google search page under the church's info, which I think is entirely unfair and unjust. This individual, Mason, claims that at the service where an announcement was made regarding the church's position on gay marriage, that the new Pastor, Drew Sams, discriminated against the gay and lesbian community. I must have been at an entirely different service, because I did NOT hear what he heard. I don't remember specifics, but that sermon has always stuck with me because of how delicate he handled such a divisive topic. He did anything but make anyone feel unwelcome IMO. He also did not state he would not honor same sex marriages in the church, but that the decision was left to each pastor. The only definitive statement he made was that during his sermons he would stay true to the word of the Bible. Now, to me it was rather ambiguous, but the context he surrounded every statement with was love, caring, understanding, and NOT judging. Yes, unfortunately there were some people (FAR FROM A MAJORITY- It was very muted) that clapped, which was very upsetting to me, because it was obvious what THEY meant by their claps. But that's going to happen at every church for every religion when you have 100's and 100's of people with different perspectives and from different backgrounds. Pastor Drew was certainly not condemning anyone to hell; he was merely commenting, as was his duty after the Chicago hearings on the matter had just occurred, and because he didn't decide to reword the Bible himself and proclaim "Let's support gay marriage completely," this reviewer decided to give an extremely slanted and biased review on what actually happened. Yeah, you could say I'm biased as well, and you'd be right, but not about the issue of gay marriage. I'm biased for THE CHURCH itself. My level of discernment is extremely high as I've seen corruption in many places: morally, spiritually, and within the confines of US law itself. So I am very keen on being able to trust the intent and pure nature of any person or institution, particularly when they are supposed to be "preaching truth." Anyway, I digress. I'm bummed I had to set aside time to give this rebuttal to a review that I feel was completely one sided and seen thru projector lenses. Bel Air has been a blessing to me since I started attending a few years ago. Having been to a handful of other churches here and back east, Bel Air is far and away the best. Aside from the heavenly scenic location with amazing views, there just a sense of welcome and comfort that is hard to find. It feels like what a church SHOULD be. ps. I encourage anyone to go to the BelAirChurch website and watch the online broadcast of it to decide for yourself. (Assuming it's still in their archives. I'm guessing the date would be just before "Mason" gave his review.)

I was not interested in religion until the ripe old age of 56 and found my "home-away-from-home (South Africa) in BAPC!! However, I am perturbed to read a past member's view of BAPC's stand on homosexuality today and must say I am saddened by the suffering that this poor soul endured for so many, many years and then to feel shunned by his own church must have been even more devastating for this young man. You see, I have recently learned that my younger son has been facing an identity crises since he was 8 years of age, which he hid so well from his family, but can only imagine how much he suffered having to live with this alone and not understanding WHY!! So now that I, too, am a parent of a son who is gay, I worry that, when he asks to come to church with me on the odd occasion, that somewhere, somehow he will sense he is not welcome & this will kill me because I have never felt so happy to become a Christian & finally part of a "family" as BAPC has made me feel. A church I have come to love, respect & admire. How am I to face this dilemma? I have not told my son that he will not be accepted because this will hurt him even more than he is hurt by the fact that he is wrestling with his homosexuality as it is because he is still attracted to females!! I would not like to be where he is. It must be so so frightening because of the judgmental world we live in.

I used to go to Bel Air Pres over 10 years ago. At first, I really liked it and weekly, I would stay for prayer after each service. They have an area where you can go and people who either work there or volunteer in some capacity, listen to your needs and pray for you. Then one day, I was going through something and confided in the people praying for me , a married couple, what was going on so they could pray with me about it. Next thing I know, I was shunned from the church. Both my mother and one of my sisters died within a short period of time and I was devastated and called the church during the day and asked for council and they basically refused. After service, I tried talking to the pastor and he ignored me. They basically judged me for some reason and refused to be there for me, and that is what a church is supposed to do, be there for people. All I can think of is that the couple who prayed for me, betrayed my confidentiality about what I told them in confidence, and spread rumors about me throughout the church. It was shocking. I don't recommend this church at all because they won't keep your information confidential and will judge you in the most harshest of ways. Totally the opposite of what Jesus is about. There is a word for people like this - phony holy. My recommendation - find another church, there are so many other good ones in L.A.

I have been attending this Church as a non-member for around seven years now. I have enjoyed serving here as well as being in life groups. The Church, at least all I’ve known personally, are committed to following Christ and bear The Spirit’s fruit. As much as I love this Church, I believe that all Churches have their strengths and weaknesses, and a possible weakness here is arguably a lack of regular expository preaching of The Word. On a separate note, if you are looking for a Church that is Presbyterian in the historic sense (think Westminister Confession) then the Church is more properly non-denominational in my view I have seen hardly any evidence of Reformed Theology ( Just The ULI in TULIP). I clearly differentiate from High and Hyper Calvinism, though sadly many may not seem to care for these distinctions, from the pulpit, and the theological position here would appear to be in line with Southern Baptist Arminianism, not Wesleyan Arminianism. I am not pointing these theological realities as I understand them to bash the Church, but to provide you information if you want a Historic Presbyterian Church perhaps. All this to say I recommend this Church highly!

This write up is in response to M. Martin. Sometimes people just get mad about churches and people in them. I've been attending Bel Air for over 7 yrs and this body of people is not what he has mentioned. Anyone can go to any church and have a problem. I could leave and go to another church and find fault, why because wherever there are people trying to serve the Lord, the enemy is in the midst. Pastor Drew Sams is kind, caring and very helpful and so is the staff. They work diligently to assist in whatever way they can. I bring guests quite often and they end up coming back and becoming members and serve. I'm sorry this person had whatever experience he had but I would certainly not want it to hamper anyone else from coming to visit and stay. This congregation is warm, caring and welcoming!

I love Bel Air Presbyterian Church! I stopped frequenting church once my home church, Van Nuys First Baptist's property got bought out by Church on the Way and the congregation moved to Shepherd of the Hills. I've attended many churches in the San Fernando Valley over the course of the years including Shepherd of the Hills and Rocky Peak. However, I had never felt comfortable like the churches fit me, until I attended Bel Air Church. I have found a new home here. The people are extremely friendly, genuine, and welcoming. Not to mention, there are so many opportunities to get involved, learn, and grow with Jesus. I highly recommend this church to everyone! <3 "Follow Jesus Everyday and Everywhere with Everyone!" P.S. I also love the band - their talent and enthusiasm is outstanding!

Bel Air Church is a wonderful place to worship, learn and give thanks to the Lord. It's a very welcoming community and has been so instrumental in my growth in the Lord. There are classes running from morning till early afternoon with topics ranging from Science and Faith to creating healthy relationships. There is a coffee shop up top, another added bonus and the small groups are a great way to get plugged in and to have support. Everyone is Welcome. There is a men's breakfast on the second Saturday of each month. Also, Celebrate Recovery on Saturday mornings for those dealing with addictions. Pastor Drew Sams and the entire pastoral staff have huge hearts for the Lord and are wonderful teachers.

I was invited to Bel Air Church for over ten years and never went because I assumed it was a "hoity toity" church. I finally attended. From the moment I walked in the door, I felt such a warm and powerful spirit. I was completely at ease and though knowing only one person, felt like I belonged. I was home! I could have kicked myself -- I could have been there ten years earlier, but God's timing is always perfect. All of the pastors are so talented in teaching God's word--each unique and special in their own way; and I do love that they stick to the scriptures without embellishment and hyperbole. I could go on and on, but you should just come and experience Bel Air Church for yourself.

Bel Air Presbyterian is a strong community of individuals embracing and supporting each other to have a close intimate relationship with the divine and to live authentically with divine purpose. There is so much to become involved in at Bel Air Presbyterian. So many ways to make a difference, support, be supported, and to develop as a human being. What I love most is that this church understands the importance of applying scripture to present day, real life situations. I have been attending but a mere two months, yet I feel as if I found a second home.

I have been attending Bel Air Church for years and beyond the amazing teaching by Dr. Drew Sams, I love that this church is intergenerational. Having members from different stages of life allows for different perspectives and insights for the growth of the church. There is a traditional 9am service, with full choir and organ, and contemporary services at 11am and 6pm with worship band. All are amazing, and I encourage you to check one out! If you're tired of "church shopping" and looking for a place to call home, we warmly welcome you!

I have been visiting here with a friend who attends or tunes in weekly. I myself have visited here 3 or 4 times now. They are still meeting outdoors, but since this is LA, that turns out to be wonderful, especially with a spectacular view of the Valley down below. I enjoy the worship and the teaching and preaching. The staff seems to be genuine folks who love God and their flock. I look forward to future visits. [If I have the right information, then this used to be President Ronald Reagan's church].

I first visited Bel Air Church in March of 2017. I was a little concerned prior to my visit due to the fact that it is a very large congregation. However, upon my first, and subsequent visits, I found the experience very rewarding. The members are very friendly, and very outgoing. Also, the people attending the church are very reflective of Los Angeles in general, coming from different backgrounds and various cultures. It is a very uplifting place, and I recommend to anyone that they check it out.

Bel Air Church is my community of otherwise lonely Los Angeles. I have been a member of Bel Air for more than 30 years. Friendships that I have established through Bel Air run deep and genuine. It is not a church of the Christian Holy Huddle. I am meeting new people all the time. Bel Air is a very warm and welcoming community. The church congregants are multi-generational and are of widely diverse ethnicity. The teaching and preaching from Pastoral and Staff Leadership is excellent and relevant.

I was a full time minister for thirty plus years. I was actively searching for a church where I felt challenged. The teaching is spectacular. The Senior Pastor is the real deal. He's highly educated, completely dedicated to his flock, and has a true pastors heart. I can't imagine attending anywhere else! We commute all the way from Newport Beach. And every time we are heading back home we talk about how thankful we are for this church, the friends we've made here, and how it's changed our lives.

Gorgeous place! Looked at this sanctuary for a possible wedding ceremony and was absolutely amazed. The church sits on a hill overlooking LA, a breathtaking view. Their wedding coordinator is very accommodating and gave us a tour of the place. The sanctuary seats over 1,000 people I believe and there’s a hall across the sanctuary. There’s also a school attached at the lower part of the church. Very clean and staff are welcoming. I’ve never attended a service, but I am sure it is lovely.

Grew up here. While other churches have snagged that 20 something demographic Bel Air was known for in the past, this church is multiracial, Presbyterian with a little charismatic mixed in and an average age of about 35 (estimated). Great views of the valley from every building and ample parking. If you want a church with a mid to large size feel and want to hang out with some people that unapologetically love Jesus give it a try.

What Precious Good this Church has upheld ! Shame on the guy that would tear God's house with his inflated tale.. The church is a Holy Place - if you have stinkin thinkin & wish to bring others to your misery and not bow yourself .... why are you there? Be thou made whole.. bow & be enriched by sanctity. Let there be a Lord of y o u r life instead of going about sacred places & trying to lord them - BelAIr<3

I was asked to come to this church by an acquaintance when I moved from the east coast. I expected it to be a bit stuffy given that high level people go there. But, I have to say I was impressed with the music, and the feeling of belonging that came with attending. From the people who greet you with a smile, to the great music and freindly people sitting beside you. It’s easy to call this place home.

Come to the 11 am service and see for yourself, a great body of people, genuine, fantastic Pastor - Drew Sams. I've been to two of the largest churches in the S. F. Valley and never was I once welcomed like I was here. My husband loves it and we became members and love everything about Bel Air. There are classes, events, partnering up with at least four partners in Lo Angeles to support the needy.

Bel Air Presbyterian is an absolutely amazing church! It's a large church with a small church vibe! The pastor is wonderfully engaging, the people are warm and caring and the worship band is outstanding! Bel Air Presbyterian Church has fun events and informative classes that are always free and enjoyable! I'm so happy to be a part of the Bel Air Presbyterian family!!

Angel City Christmas Had a wonderful time at the celebration of light & life. Beautiful panaramic views of SF Valley. Winter Wonderland for the kids. Orchestra, Worship & Children's Choirs were magnificent. Soloists absolutely breathtaking performances. Excellent blend of humor and reverence. All to benefit aid to L.A. & Tiajuana homelessness.

I love the variety of people that go worship there. The truth is taught from the Bible and so much happens throughout the week. Great friendships have been made, my kids feel included and have fun. And I am able to grow, serve, and rejoice with so many others. Come visit, you will be welcomed!

Bel Air Church is people friendly and all are greeted with hospitality, with a dash of warm fellow/sister ship. It is truly a of worship filled with people grateful for the blessings of life, and are ready to act as lifelines to all who need and want a true relationship with the Lord. …

I didn't like this place at all. I came twice with my friend a couple of years ago. There was no diversity at all and people were talking other races in a very disrespectful way. I also heard that they are very anti-LGBT (especially marriage). It's not the 1950s, that's messed up.

hello, I have to turn to you for help, my name is alex. I live in Ukraine with my family. Because of the constant Russian missile strikes, we were left without work. I was offered a job in your country, but for this you need to apply for a

I had a photography job at Bel-Air press… it was a wedding and it was fabulous what a location what a beautiful spiritual center and with the circular nature of it and they're beautiful incredible pipe organ it's really quite an experience.

Always a comfortable place hear for God or reach out to God, Church sits on a crest between both major populations in LA. Many great things are gonna continue to come from Bel Air Presbyterian church.

In worship to God. The free willed spirit to dance as if no one is watching. To stand still dancing in the Spirit as David did in the inner sanctuary. Praying beneath their breath in the Holy Ghost!!

I really enjoy the time I spend at Bel Air Presbyterian. I always feel so welcome and at home. If you are looking for a church to join for you or your family, you should try Bel Air Presbyterian.

A place where Christ's kindness, gentleness, and character are genuinely in motion. A very non-judgmental and compassionate place. His light shines brightly here. Such an asset to LA.

I love Bel Air Church! People are so welcoming and friendly, very clean, amazingly good worship. Even on holiday easy to park also to park and shuttle service also available.

I was raised going to this church, it’s where I found community in high school, was baptized, completed my first internship, and is a place that will forever feel like home.

A beautiful body of Christ that makes you feel right at home. It is everything a church should be. Authentic followers of Jesus who don’t neglect the Holy Spirit.

I was actually there performing in a concert yesterday. Their Sanctuary is impressive, the staff I met there was friendly, and their Choral Room is well-staffed.

It's a Blessed place that treats you like you're coming Home. Everyone at Bel Air accepts you as you are with Unconditional Love and Christ-like Grace.

Great service. Friendly, helpful, outgoing people on staff. Beautiful building.. Great panoramic nature view from the Bel Air hillsides.

We attended the Christmas presentation and it was absolutely beautiful. What a wonderful place the worship our Lord Jesus.

Beautiful church hidden in the hills of Mulholland, with fantastic view of LA. Everyone here is warm and welcoming.

I love Bel Air Church I’ve been going there since I was born for 54 years A great community

Beautiful picturesque church. Very spacious. Plenty of parking. Beautiful surrounding view.

It's worth it to visit once for the view alone. Come for the view; stay for the community.

Beautiful church. Everyone is super sweet here. I went to a concert here and i loved it.

A beautiful edifice with phenomenal views. Prepare your heart. Listen with your eyes.

Pulled over to take lunch and they kicked me out of the parking lot not very friendly

Solid Bible teaching, wonderful Christian community. Give us a try. Richard Moselle

Great place, friendly people with picturesque views of the surrounding area.

Venue was rented for a graduation, breath taking views, peaceful, beautiful

Great view of the valley, perfect place to worship, excellent structure!

Beautiful facility. Grand celebrations. They have some good classes too.

I love this church! Friendly, accepting, and fantastic pastor!

Good Church with good teaching of the word of God the Bible

Heavenly place of worship overlooking the entire valley

Awesome memories Fall Festival and Christmas Concert

Beautiful place beautiful view parking difficult

Nice place for worshipping The Lord Jesus Christ

Great view if you just park in the parking lot

Great church, friendly people, great preaching

Love, love, love this Church! Total community!

Lovely people lovely service highly recommend

Wonderful People Breathtaking Views …

A welcoming church with a great Pastor.

A lovely memorial in a friendly space.

New person there...never greeted....

Drew Sams is an excellent pastor.

Beautiful breathtaking views

Very warm and welcoming.

Usually pretty good...

Beautifull Wedding

Love this church!

opposite of Godly

Great big church

Amazing Church!!

It felt evil

Godly

Nice