JHM Community Outreach

This month, Saddleback’s Junior High Ministry (JHM) proved that you’re never too young to have Daring Faith. From April 3-6, over 80 teens assisted people in need during the second annual Impact OC event.

Kicking off at Saddleback Rancho Capistrano, the three-day gathering connected Saddleback students to local PEACE opportunities across the county.

The event was a huge success and something JHM plans to continue annually,” says Local PEACE Community Outreach Coordinator, Woody Smith.

 Each day, students could serve in ministries that were both relational and physical. Coordinating the experience was Saddleback's Jessica Gulino, who oversees JHM 7th grade girls, as well as student leadership and Impact OC.

" I love seeing students have light-bulb moments in their relationships with Christ," says Jessica "—and watching them take steps to make their strength their faith.“

Weeks prior to the event, JHM students were given outreach ideas by the Local PEACE team, and also proposed ideas of their own. One of the greatest impacts was with the homeless community in Long Beach.

Through Saddleback’s Sole2Soul Homeless Outreach, students handed out socks to people living on the streets. Tucked in each pair was a hand-written note of encouragement and Bible verse.

“The students spent time with the homeless, developed relationships, and had some great conversations,” says Woody. “It was really educational for some who had never talked to a homeless person before.”

Through Saddleback’s Recycling Ministry, another group of students spent the day sorting cans and bottles at our Lake Forest campus. From those recycled items, money was earned to purchase Bibles that will be distributed globally. A third group of students visited an assisted living facility where they connected with residents and played games.

“Just spending time with the seniors was an example of sharing God's love,” explains Woody. “Elderly people often feel left out and undervalued. To have kids spend time with them and love on them helps to restore their dignity.”

The event triggered countless stories of new hope, including two JHM students who encouraged a homeless man to play his guitar. From that prompting, came about a jam session on the beach with other locals and youth.

To close out the three-day event, students spontaneously suggested a time of prayer. “The kids wanted to lay hands on the volunteers who serve the homeless each week,” says Woody. “That level of spiritual maturity is inspiring and a true testament to the promising future of tomorrow’s leaders.”

To learn more about making an impact in your community, visit saddleback.com/localpeace.