Spread over 25 acres Mariners is one of the largest churches in Southern California. Actually it looks more like a community. (That's mom and dad waving below)
(pictured below) This is where baptisms take place.On one Sunday, several months ago I watched as about 20 young people were baptized.
My parents are helping at the doughnut table. People donate $1.00 for a doughnut and the funds are going to help children in Africa who are without parents due to AIDS. So far they have had over 200 people stop by. Right now, there is a lull until the next service lets out.
This is part of the main building. Looks small right? Well the inside seats 3200 people. The auditorium is a-symetrical in design with a flat main floor and terrace seating at the rear. They have dramatic lighting and stage design. The music is very contemporary. But the chapel (see first picture) has a service for those who love the old hymns.Although sometimes an eyebrow or two is raised by the style of this seeker-friendly church, one should know they are generous givers to the less fortunate and their preaching is not fancy or fluffy--it's directly out of God's word, the Bible, straight and strong.
Another view of the baptistry. (above)
There are beautiful walkways and it's not unusual to discover a scripture verse for encouragement. It's a very peaceful place. Well...except for all the children. But that's a good problem. They have a large grassy field in the middle between the buildings where children can play with giant frisbees, hula-hoops or whatever else they've come up with. Parents are out there with their kids, in between services (and sometimes during the service!) having some family time. It's nice to watch parents playing with their children.
I should have taken a picture of the families in the field, but I was too busy helping mom and dad with the doughnuts!
In about a week I should have more pictures up of my jam-packed 2 day vacation!
5 comments:
I know that Mariners does ALOT for people--fulfilling James 1:27. Great photos with the new camera.
Wow! What a beautiful, inviting place . .. and the baptistry is amazing!
What a beautiful place! So glad you got away and to such a lovely spot. Is that where you parents attend regularly?
Congratulations on being published! Can't wait to read it!
Sorry to read about the loss of your cousins. Will you have a lot of company during this time?
I know you're probably very busy, but I thought I'd let you know that Part II is up.
Everytime I go to Mariner's I need a map to navigate. Somehow I always wind up in the skate park. ;)
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