With its soaring tower, intricate stained-glass windows and striking French Gothic Revival design, Immanuel Presbyterian Church is one of Los Angeles’ most impressive architectural landmarks. While many people recognise it as the iconic setting of My Chemical Romance’s legendary Helena music video — celebrated each year by thousands of fans during the annual Ghouls’ Day Out event—the church’s cultural footprint extends far beyond emo history. Over the years, it has appeared in countless film and television productions, including The Amazing Spider-Man and Sister Act 2. From its dramatic architecture to its rich artistic details, there’s plenty to discover about this Koreatown gem. Here are some fascinating facts about Immanuel Presbyterian Church.
This year, Candlelight brings the church’s architecture and atmosphere to life with magical musical performances, turning the historic sanctuary into an intimate, glowing venue for classical tributes and seasonal concerts.
Background on Immanuel Presbyterian Church
Immanuel Presbyterian Church started as a spinoff from the First Presbyterian Church in downtown Los Angeles and originally served mostly wealthy and middle-class congregants. Over the decades, it has grown into a truly diverse and inclusive community, welcoming Latinx, Filipino, Korean, and other multicultural populations. The church is deeply committed to social justice, peace, and spiritual growth, offering bilingual services and community programs that reflect its evolving congregation.
Its size alone is remarkable — at its peak, the sanctuary could hold 2,000 people, making it one of the largest Presbyterian churches in the country. But what really makes it stand out is the way it combines architectural beauty, historical significance, and cinematic history all in one. Between the soaring tower, the intricate stained glass, and appearances in Hollywood films, the church has a presence that goes far beyond being just a place of worship. In fact, because of the building’s magnificent exterior, it was listed as a Historic-Cultural Monument in 2003.
What can you do at Immanuel Presbyterian Church?
Visitors can explore the chapels, classrooms, and athletic facilities, and experience the serene atmosphere of the sanctuary. The church also hosts a variety of cultural, spiritual, and community events, offering opportunities to engage with a vibrant, multicultural congregation.
Candlelight performances elevate these experiences, transforming the historic sanctuary into a glowing, intimate venue for classical tributes, seasonal music, and unforgettable live performances. The combination of stunning architecture, rich history, and immersive music makes visiting Immanuel Presbyterian a unique and memorable experience.
Visitor Information (2026)
Where is Immanuel Presbyterian Church and how to get there?
Koreatown is a dense mix of both historic and contemporary buildings, and this historic church is located in the heart of the neighborhood on 3300 Wilshire Boulevard. To get there, you can take the 20, 204 or 754 buses or hop on the subways on B or D line.
What has been filmed at the church?
Immanuel Presbyterian Church has set the scene for many movies and TV shows, including The Amazing Spider-Man, Sister Act 2, Legally Blonde 2, and John Wick. But that’s not all — My Chemical Romance’s ‘Helena (So Long and Goodnight)’ was filmed here in 2005 and Eminem’s ‘Cleaning out my Closet’ too, back in 2002.
Is there parking available?
There is no on-site parking at the church.
Is the church wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it’s accessible to wheelchair users.
Nearby Venues
The church is a walk or short drive from a number of fabulous venues including the Art Deco concert hall Wiltern and the vintage Regent Theater. This season, Candlelight is lighting up some of the most breathtaking venues in the city including Immanuel Presbyterian Church to bring these unforgettable experiences to the people of L.A.
