Glide Memorial Church, San Francisco

The Glide Memorial Church, constructed in 1929, has gained a reputation as one of the most liberal churches in the United States. Originally founded by Lizzie Glide, a Methodist philanthropist, the church started with more conservative principles. However, it wasn't until the latter half of the twentieth century, under the leadership of Rev. Cecil Williams, that it truly embraced its open-minded and inclusive values.

Rev. Cecil Williams played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the church community and the city's homosexual population. His predecessor, Rev. John Moore, had sparked controversy with a sermon on homosexuality that even made front-page news.

Beyond its reputation for being progressive, Glide Memorial Church is renowned for its significant contributions to society. Working in collaboration with the Glide Foundation since 1960, they have established numerous programs aimed at helping the underprivileged. These initiatives include providing meals for the poor, offering free legal services for the homeless, conducting literacy classes, and even providing healthcare services like AIDS testing and health check-ups. In total, they have initiated over 87 programs to uplift the less fortunate, truly exemplifying their commitment to making a positive impact on the community.