As we step into a new year at The Oceanside Sanctuary and a renewed vision and mission, you are invited to lean into community and help us cultivate a Christian spirituality “reclaiming its calling to be known for love, liberation, and the celebration of God’s image in all people.”
For more than 150 years, this church has been part of the Oceanside community. Eight years ago, we reimagined the legacy of “First Christian Church of Oceanside” and birthed “The Oceanside Sanctuary,” a community committed to following the way of Jesus and reclaiming Christianity for love and liberation.
Just a friendly reminder that we are consolidating our church communications and coordinating systems in a platform called Church Center and closing down our Mighty Networks online community space. You can access Church Center via your web browser or as an app on your phone, whichever is most convenient.
Thanks to all who Volunteer here at OSC! We were so glad to be able to celebrate you at our recent Volunteer Appreciation Night. Check out the video below to relive the magic and download your photos from the gallery below or from this google drive link (embed video link below- upload unlisted to youtube first and use that link)
As we approach Pentecost Sunday on May 24, we are struck by what a meaningful and energizing Easter season this has been at The Oceanside Sanctuary. Between new leaders volunteering, new Meetups launching, a Community Defense Training, a memorable Lent service, and a new monthly youth group gaining traction, there is so much to celebrate.
We (Pastors Jason and Jenell) have a personal favor to ask. But first, some background. Over the past year, we have been in conversation with OSC Board and leadership about the possibility of taking a sabbatical leave in 2027. As you may know, clergy commonly take a sabbatical every 6-7 years for a season of personal spiritual reflection and renewal…
Dear church family,
Several months ago, our OSC Kids Ministry was in need of experienced leadership to help coach us into a new season of growth. CJ, a member of our church, a recreation professional, and a former children’s pastor, had space in his life to step in and help meet that need in an interim capacity. CJ has since returned to a full-time position in recreation and this interim season will be coming to a close mid February.
We are deeply grateful for what we learned during his time with us. The kids are enjoying the new systems he helped put in place, and those structures will continue to serve our community well. As we move closer to hiring a Children’s Program Manager, we are being thoughtful and intentional in the process, knowing that finding the right person takes time.
While this new staff hire is important, I also know a thriving kid's program ultimately depends on volunteers. It takes eight to ten volunteers each Sunday to create a safe, engaging, and welcoming environment. With the systems CJ helped establish, we are moving steadily toward a program that is vibrant, well resourced, and ready for our next leader to step into and help carry forward.
With this in mind, we are in need of more committed volunteers to help teach our kids the work of Jesus and justice. If you have children in the program, we ask that you consider volunteering one Sunday per month. We truly see OSC Kids as a parent cooperative. If you are able to use the program in order to attend worship, we ask that you give back so others can do the same.
We are currently using the Meredith Miller curriculum, which is theologically progressive, justice-minded, and child-focused. CJ also helped establish fun games and icebreakers that make teaching both joyful and rewarding.
Please reach out if you are able to be part of this important ministry. We will continue to keep you updated as we move forward with our search and next steps. CJ and his family remain committed members of OSC. If you have time to chat with him please feel free to express your gratitude for all he has done in the last few months.
Blessings,
Jenell Coker
Co-lead Minister
