This January, the Camarillo church celebrated a significant milestone: The 50th anniversary of the ribbon-cutting ceremony that marked the beginning of services held in the church building in 1975. It was a weekend filled with gratitude, reflection, and renewed commitment to God’s leading as the congregation celebrated Christ’s faithfulness through the decades.
The festivities began Friday evening with a special prayer session. Attendees gathered for fellowship, a devotional, followed by the meaningful experience of praying through each space in the church.
“In many rooms, and even the parking lot, we paused to pray for the families, teachers, and support staff who serve and worship there,” John Strehle, Camarillo church senior pastor, said. “Each space reflected a key attribute that we prayed would be a blessing for the entire church family, reminding us of the diverse ways God’s work is carried out within our walls and, further, acknowledging the intergenerational value we bring together.”
Saturday morning’s program was a meaningful divine service. Lonnie Melashenko, former pastor of Camarillo church who cut the ribbon 50 years ago, delivered an inspiring sermon, weaving together stories from the church’s early days and presenting a powerful challenge to “come down, come out, and come in,” emphasizing the church’s mission.
“Exodus 25:8 was a principal text in 1967 when 50 charter members decided to gather together from the greater Ventura County, because the word of God said, ‘Let them make me a sanctuary that I may dwell among them,’” Melashenko said. “There was no church in Camarillo. 50 charter members believed that worship lies at the heart of our existence and our theology.”
Despite the environmental challenges that initially hindered the building project, God blessed the faith family’s efforts to connect and serve the community. These efforts caught the attention of local community leaders, and the necessary permits were awarded. Reflecting on that moment, “What a day of praise!” that was for the founders, Strehle reflected.
“Indeed, it was a day of praise for us today, too, as we remembered the many ways God has blessed His message and our willingness to connect, serve one another, and grow in community,” Strehle said. “As 2 Timothy 2:1 reminds us, ‘to be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.’ That strength is knowing I have been saved by grace, I walk by grace, I serve by grace and grow by grace.”
During the service, founding members of the congregation who were present were acknowledged, creating a heartfelt connection between the past and present. David Vannix shared an original poem written for the occasion, accompanied by beautiful piano music from Niccole Modell.
After the service, members and friends gathered for a special fellowship meal, enjoying the warmth of community and shared memories. The afternoon brought a highlight of the weekend—a concert by Christian Edition, a renowned men’s group whose music uplifted and inspired all in attendance. In a touching moment, the group generously donated the offering collected during the concert back to the church, symbolizing their commitment to the congregation’s mission.
“The weekend was a reminder of how God has led our church family in the past and how He continues to guide us as we seek to connect, serve, and grow,” Strehle said. “From our humble beginnings to this momentous celebration, we are united in faith and committed to being a light in our community.
“As we move forward, we do so with the confidence that God, who has been with us for the last 50 years, will continue to bless and lead us in the years to come,” Strehle added. “We praise Him for His faithfulness and look forward to all He has in store for Camarillo church.”
To God be the glory for 50 years of ministry!
