In November 1966, retired US Army Chaplain Paul W. Ludden, a United Methodist minister, was approached by the administration of Rossmoor Leisure World to arrange for religious services in the community.  The first Protestant worship service was conducted in the Fireside Room, now the Ballroom in Clubhouse I, on December 11, 1966.  Sixty worshippers attended this first service.  From the very beginning, an interfaith outlook was an integral part of the founders' thinking.  Isaiah 56:  7 became the key verse "....a house of prayer for all people...." 

Attendance and membership increased steadily, and the need for a separate place for assembly and worship grew.  In 1973, the congregation approved the land purchase and development of plans to build a church.  The land was purchased in 1973 for $31,899.  In 1977, the building plans were approved, a $350,000 building loan was obtained, and a groundbreaking ceremony was held on September 25.  In the fall of 1978, the church building was completed, and 600 people attended a joy-filled celebration on October 29, 1978.

Our Lady of Grace Catholic Parish found a home at The Chapel for their worship and meetings in 1979.  In May 1991, the Catholic congregation moved to their facilities on Norbeck Road just outside the north gate.  The Jewish Residents of Leisure World began monthly Shabbat services and other activities in The Chapel in 1978, and now meet in the Clubhouse.  The Unitarian Universalists had their fellowship at The Chapel beginning in 1988, and now meet in the Clubhouse.