In 1960, twenty Sedonans established The Church of the Red Rocks. They had no pastor, no building, no money; but they had abundant faith in divine guidance. They affiliated with the Congregational Church, which soon became the United Church of Christ. The church's first full-time pastor, Rev. Paul Babbitt, challenged the congregation with "it is an awesome thing to build a church, but let us expect great things from God." These first eight years were times of struggle: erecting a building, paying off debts, and attracting more members. In December 1963, construction began on a sanctuary, and the following June the congregation held a Service of Entry with prayers and singing. The building was raw and unfinished, but it was a dream made real, the culmination of their vision and faith.

The early seventies was a time of stabilization under the wise leadership of Dr. Perry Avery. He inspired the church to spiritual readiness for the years ahead. Sedona was growing, drawing outstanding people from all over the country with diverse faith backgrounds and experiences. Dr. Avery recognized the benefits of a congregation whose members represented various denominations. He encouraged the laity to live with their diversities in love and foster a harmonious church of vision. In 1973, Rev. Alice Snow began her outstanding ministry, nurturing a congregation that grew to more than 500 members during her decade-long service.

During the next twenty-five years, The Church of the Red Rocks significantly expanded its programs, deepened its ties with the Sedona community, and successfully crafted a long-range plan for the future. In 1985, the church called Dr. George Ault, who would lead the vibrant and diverse congregation in preparing for the 21st century. Commissions were formed to address the church's spiritual, educational, financial, and mission outreach efforts. The congregation continued its uncommon level of giving --- time, expertise, and financial support.

The Church of the Red Rocks has touched many lives beyond its membership through Stephen Ministry, Verde Valley Caregivers, and God's Clod Squad of Clowns. In addition, the church built a unique music program that enriched the art-loving Sedona community. Year-round support for many local organizations, such as the Verde Valley Sanctuary, Rainbow Acres, the Food Bank, and the Adult Community Center, is the hallmark of the church's mission-centered outreach. This outreach includes the church's commitment to help bring justice and peace to a diverse world society.

In 2008, the church dedicated a new Life Long Learning and Leadership Center. The completion of this facility brought to fruition the visionary efforts of long-range planning, sacrificial gifts, and the dedicated pastoral guidance of Dr. Ault. The Church of the Red Rocks now stands before another time portal, the next fifty years, and prays for God's blessing on its continued faithful witness.