The church is not a social club, and it is more than an institution. It is a family of believers, the household of God. Blood is thicker than water, and Christ’s blood unites more deeply than any other relation on earth. So naturally we spend a lot of our time together formally in our services, but also informally in fellowship and outings. Following are some examples of our life as a family together:
Homemakers
This is a nearly monthly get together for fellowship to enjoy time together. It includes cookouts, dinner at restaurants, beach bonfires and picnics, ferry rides, and ice cream socials.
Ladies Meetings
On the third Thursday of the month, the ladies meet at one of the elders homes for fellowship. One of the elders’ wives gives a short lesson. The ladies also have a Secret Sister Gift Exchange — each year, the women draw a name of their Secret Sister and once a month they give them inexpensive anonymous gifts at church. In May, they have a brunch where the Secret Sisters are revealed.
Youth Group
The youth group meets once a month and is led by Elder Huffmaster and his wife. These gatherings are to foster friendship and the future of the church with our young people in more informal ways to compliment the weekly catechising and Sabbath School.
Young Adults
Lead by Pastor Van Leuven at his home, these monthly get-togethers are for our college age youth who have entered adulthood. Bible studies on a number of issues faced at this age are enjoyed together. Other outings and events also are scheduled.
Family Camp
Each year we look forward with much anticipation to venturing off to Mount Palomar for a weekly of incredible family fellowship at the Palomar Christian Conference Center. We enjoy devotions, swimming, hiking, star gazing, meals, sports, and special time to get to know one another better as we get away from the day to day grind.
Men and Boys Campout
The men and boys of the church go for an overnight campout once a year, either in the desert or at a local lake. This is normally the first day of the year and is a great opportunity to marvel at God’s grand creation and His astounding glory while bonding together.
Missionary Fellowship
Every other month on the second Wednesday, one of the men speaks about a missionary he has read about. On these nights, the normally scheduled Bible Study and Prayer service is not held. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. and is followed by food and fellowship.
Harvest Dinner
This gathering is held on the Friday before Thanksgiving (the Wednesday service is cancelled on this week). A short message and dinner is enjoyed together.
Puritan Feast
Held on a Friday evening the second week of May each year, this is an evening of fellowship over dinner that includes a message and often entertainment.
Fellowship in General
Besides the above gatherings, we also like to just hang out with each other. We regularly enjoy having each other over for meals, getting together for events, playing sports together, and just being part of each other’s lives. We’d love for you to join us.