There is a “new” church in Ocean Beach. Well, not really “new” in the sense that it has never been there before, but “new” in the sense of the approach being utilized in reaching out to the community.
I spend some time with Jessica Strysko, the pastor of the Water’s Edge Church, located at the former Point Loma Methodist Church, at 1984 Sunset Cliffs Blvd. Strysko is an energetic, optimistic, delightful individual who has many great ideas for bringing the community together. In fact, she is so enthusiastic about her mission that an open house is scheduled for the community on April 29, from 10 a.m. to noon.
She said there would be an opportunity to get a taste of the worship service at the open house. They have two mission statements: “Diving deep into the community” and “Pouring out God’s love.” The church’s band, led by Stephanie Wright, will be playing alternative folk as well as traditional songs.
Water’s Edge works with the Veterans Village, food banks, Pioneer Schools, and shares facilities with the Nazarene Peace River program. The original Methodist church on this site needed to close because of waning enrollment. Water’s Edge was sharing a campus in Mission Valley when they decided that the move to Sunset Cliffs would be a win-win for all. Commuters would have a “home” and the people of Ocean Beach would again have a place to worship. It was looked upon as “a new beginning.” New energy is driving this endeavor to great success because of the positivity generated by the new congregation.
It is not surprising that many of the parishioners were members of the first church. And lest you misunderstand – Water’s Edge Faith Community is a congregation of First United Methodist Church of San Diego. The Water’s Edge facility has another open house scheduled. On April 21, the Ocean Beach Emergency Food Bank (locally known as Loaves and Fishes, and housed on the Water’s Edge campus) will have an open house from 10 a.m. to noon. This ministry does good work and has been a part of the OB community for decades. Come out and see what they have to offer.
If my meeting with Jessica was any indication, the welcome sign is out and flashing. Come to their open house and see for yourself.
