Friends,
When we say our mission at The Oceanside Sanctuary is to "grow together in the love, peace, and justice of Christ for the sake of our relationships, our cities, and our world," this is what we mean. Oceanside is a more loving, more peaceful, and more just city today because of last night's gathering, and all the work that led up to it.
I couldn’t be more proud of our community organizing teams from The Oceanside Sanctuary, St. John Church, St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church, and San Diego Organizing Project for all the hard work that went into last night’s community action meeting. Together, the Live Free Oceanside team made a difference last night.
Huge thanks to everyone who spoke so powerfully and eloquently last night on behalf of love, peace, and justice: Charli Jones, Chelsey Holmlund, Lucy Salazar, Larry Warner, Max Disposti, Colleen Mickey, & Dr. Kadri J. Webb.
Huge thanks also to Oceanside Police Department Chief Fred Armijo for demonstrating humble and courageous leadership by affirming the community’s concerns and committing to make this subtle, yet important policy change. Thanks also to the Chief and Captain's Marchand, Sadler, and Knowland for contributing to a tone of open, honest, and productive dialogue. It was clear to everyone present that they truly love our city and care about peace and justice.
Last but not least, a big thanks to the nearly 200 members of the community who turned out in-person and online via Zoom to participate in this discussion. It was no small thing to give up a Tuesday night to make your voices heard.
Love, peace, and justice, for the sake of our city. This is how we put our faith into action.
Blessings,
Rev. Jason Coker
Lead Pastor