The Hope of Christ
- Apr 8
- 2 min read
As I write this, it is just a few days after Easter Sunday 2026. We are living in a world filled with uncertainty and fear. The whole world seems on edge—yet we know we have hope.
And what a powerful reminder we have just experienced.
Across our Southern California Nazarene churches this Easter, we saw and heard the hope of Christ on full display. The hope of Christ is what matters most! Reports are still coming in of lives touched, hearts changed, and communities reached.
Sherri and I had the opportunity to be part of a combined service at our Mid City churches this past Sunday. We were welcomed by over 300 worshipers. There was a beautiful sense of unity, power, and love among the three congregations, led by their three pastors: Luis Morales (Mid City English), Dennis Joseph (Mid City French), and Peter Siev (Mid City Cambodian). The service was highlighted by baptisms and choirs (made up of all ages!) that led with excellence and passion.
Just over a year ago, we were considering closing San Bernardino First. Yet we held onto hope through a faithful group of believers who chose to press forward. This Easter Sunday, they celebrated 121 in attendance! Under the leadership of Pastor Shane Prince, they are actively reaching their community. I also want to express deep gratitude to interim pastors Rev. Tim Fillmore and Dr. Mel Rich for their faithful leadership during a critical season. There is hope in San Bernardino!
Earlier in Holy Week, Banning Church, led by Pastor Jeff Fay and his wife Audrey, planned a community outreach. At 5:30 PM, just as the event was beginning, heavy rain poured down. Scrambling while it was raining, they moved everything indoors and continued. Over 150 people were fed, followed by a powerful concert. At the close, Pastor Jeff invited people to respond—and there were seekers. The hope of Jesus was present in Banning. This is what matters most!
These are just a few examples. There are many more stories across our district—baptisms, commitments to Christ, sunrise services along the ocean, and churches fully engaged in reaching the lost and broken.
I am deeply humbled by the passion and commitment of our pastors and churches to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ. I would love to continue hearing your stories of hope—please keep sharing them.
Please know that I am praying for you, as you pray for us. We look forward to gathering soon at our Zone Rallies, NMI Convention, and District Assembly.
Blessings,
Shawn Siegfried
District Superintendent
Southern California District Church of the Nazarene
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