The First Unitarian Church of San Jose is one of the city’s oldest and most picturesque houses of worship, with the Romanesque building overlooking St. James Park originally constructed in 1891. And today, after a $2 million renovation, the building is looking better than ever.

The congregation and its church building have had a long and storied history in San Jose, with its members speaking out on social causes. They have spoken against the hanging of two accused killers in St. James Park in 1933 as well as the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. The congregation has long been welcoming of LGBTQ members and flies a rainbow Pride flag in front of its doors. • From left, Rev. Matthew McHale, senior minister of the First Unitarian Church of San Jose; Jim Salata, presiden

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