USC Church

USC has long rented space at the church, a red-brick building constructed in 1931.

USC says the church building will be preserved. “The university will not tear down the building,” said Varun Soni, USC’s dean of religious life.

Emma Hu, right, and other worshipers participate in a United House of Prayer service. The nondenominational student group uses the church several times a week.

United House of Prayer members Jessica Bae, left, Jordan Johnson, right, and Daniel Kim arrive for a service at United University Church.

“When you worship and pray in a space, you cultivate a spirit in the room,” says Jordan Johnson, a freshman who attends United House of Prayer meetings.

Shara Bialosky prays as Jessica Bae, left, gives a testimonial at the church.

The United House of Prayer’s Douglas Matthews, left, leads a service.