Inclusive. Nurturing. Justice-Seeking.
Faith Presbyterian Church gathers in the College Area from all across San Diego. We desire to embody beloved community. We are diverse. We are people of color, white, gay, straight, married, single, parents, old, young, and with various abilities. We share a common life characterized by concern for justice, delight in education, and excellence in music, through all stages of life. We carry living traditions with us as we grow in faith, and we see the triune God as our best expression of faith.
Farewell to Rev Dr Gary Ziccardi
Rev Dr Gary Ziccardi has led our congregation as the temporary pastor since last May, providing wonderful leadership and teaching during this season in which Faith is in a transition between called pastors. The congregation will miss him and offers prayers for him and his family in their next chapter.
Thank you Pastor Gary!
Alwin Benjamin Holman Day
We are proud to celebrate with our brother Ben Holman in the recognition by the San Diego City Council of his trailblazing service to the San Diego Fire Department and the larger community. In a proclamation, December 26, 2025 is designated as “Alwin Benjamin Holman Day”:
Alwin Benjamin Holman Day
Presented by
Mayor Todd Gloria, Council President Joe LaCava,
Councilmember Henry Foster III, and Councilmember Marni von Wilpert
December 26, 2025
WHEREAS, Alwin Benjamin Holman was born in Alton, Illinois, where segregation sought to define opportunity, yet through the strength and wisdom of his mother, he was raised to rise above discrimination and live with dignity, confidence, and purpose; and
WHEREAS, in 1944, driven by love for his country, Mr. Holman enlisted in the United States Navy and was stationed in San Diego, where he found a welcoming home and a city that would forever benefit from his service and leadership; and
WHEREAS, following his honourable military service, Mr. Holman began his civilian career with the United States Postal Service and later joined the San Diego Fire Department in 1951, during a time when racial integration within the department had only just begun;
and
WHEREAS, Mr. Holman made history as the first Black firefighter in the City of San Diego to be assigned to a station other than Station 19, breaking the color barrier that had long segregated Black firefighters to a single post and paving the way for future generations
of firefighters of color; and
WHEREAS, with steadfast commitment and exceptional service, Mr. Holman advanced through the ranks, ultimately becoming the first Black Deputy Fire Chief in the City of San Diego — a milestone that reflects his dedication, courage, and belief in justice and
community; and
WHEREAS, throughout his distinguished 29-year career, Mr. Holman exemplified professionalism and integrity. He served all people equally, without regarding race or background, and demonstrated through his actions that compassion, service, and courage transcend division; and
WHEREAS, the City of San Diego is proud to congratulate Alwin Benjamin Holman on his 100th birthday, celebrating a century of life marked by his unwavering dedication to the San Diego Fire Department and the communities they serve; NOW, THEREFORE;
BE IT PROCLAIMED, by the Mayor and the Council of the City of San Diego, that this Council, for and on behalf of the people of San Diego, does hereby proclaim December 26, 2025, to be “Alwin Benjamin Holman Day” in the City of San Diego.