Launches at South Bay

One of the many ways Saddleback Church helps “Fill God’s House” is through student ministries and events that attract young believers to grow in Christ. On September 5, Saddleback Anaheim launched their College Ministry, offering 20-somethings a place to connect with others on a similar journey.

This month, between Saddleback Kids’ Main Event and summer camps, we had 3,847 students attend, 313 accept Christ, and 171 called to ministry. While retreats and gatherings are what draw them in, it’s the ongoing student ministries that keep them connected to God and his Word. That’s why on September 10, Saddleback South Bay officially launched Saddleback Student Ministries (SSM).

The vision started almost a year ago when South Bay campus pastor, Sam Yoon reached out to member, John Anderson about launching the ministry. At the time, John was hesitant and felt he should be working with adults in the area of spiritual maturity.

“God really changed my heart over the past year,” admits John. “He had great plans for me to work with these kids—bonding together, being there for them, and watching them grow in faith. This is exactly where God wants me to be.”

John’s willingness to serve the youth of South Bay has already proven fruitful. In a matter of weeks, the ministry grew from six students to as many as 40. Some families in the community even started attending Saddleback South Bay shortly after SSM launched.

Held Sundays at 11:00 AM, South Bay’s SSM takes place at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center in a designated youth area. Helping lead praise and worship are 10 student volunteers who are using their spiritual gifts to help others. As the foundation of Class 301, these young leaders are already being shaped for this key seminar that just launched at Saddleback South Bay, and already has 40 graduates!

“This is one of the greatest rewards,” says John, “—to watch students serve through ushering, singing, and volunteering in Saddleback Kids. They are eager to serve and reach the community. They are constantly coming up with ideas that help draw more people to SSM.”

For the official SSM launch on September 10, the team celebrated with cake, worship, games, and a message on “Faith, Family, and Fun.” After the success of that kick-off event, they hosted follow-up gatherings including a pool party, a movie night, and a beach bonfire. They’ve also completed a 6-part Bible study on faith, and recently attended SSM United at Saddleback Lake Forest. In the coming weeks they plan to host a costume party, an overnight lock-in, and small group gatherings.

“I absolutely love being part of SSM,” says John. “We’ve got all types of kids from different financial backgrounds and cultures. It’s great to see how God connects us as one family.”

To learn more about SSM at Saddleback South Bay, contact johnanderson@saddlebackvolunteer.com.