Unity Service Brings Together 19 Churches

About 3,500 faithful transformed Camarillo’s Constitution Park into an outdoor cathedral Sunday during a sun-splashed service organized to bring together local churches.

“It’s a day of unity,” said Joe Kolb, an event spokesman. “More important than denominations and doctrines is that we are all Christians who serve Jesus Christ. We want to break down all the borders.”

Favoring shorts and T-shirts instead of Sunday dress clothes, worshipers crowded under trees for shade while others braved the heat sitting on blankets and in lawn chairs. Children raced across the park green as pastors delivered their sermons and Christian rockers belted out religious tunes.

“I like all these people coming out here to be with God,” said Sarah Paul, an 11-year-old member of Sonrise Christian Fellowship of Camarillo, who was sitting on a patch of grass with friends.

Although worshipers appreciated the chance to attend church outside rather than in their sanctuaries, some said the open-air service that stretched more than two hours had a downside.

“It’s hot,” said Angel Bessey, 9, a Moorpark resident and member of Sonrise Christian Fellowship of Simi Valley.

The All-City Service drew congregations from 19 churches in Camarillo, Ojai, Ventura, Oxnard and Santa Barbara. Proceeds from the collections taken at the event will benefit participating churches.

“I didn’t know that this many people in Camarillo go to church,” said Sandy Kling, a 28-year-old Camarillo resident who attends Camarillo Christian Church.

Kling had set up camp with her husband and two children on a large quilt in the shade.

“They are being pretty good,” said Kling, motioning to Rachel, 3, and Ben, 6 months. “We have coloring books, crayons and toys.”

Despite the park’s distractions, many participants said they welcomed the opportunity to worship with other Christians from different churches and to listen to other pastors.

“Anyone who says he is a Christian should live as Christ did,” Bill Bright, president of Campus Crusade for Christ International, told the gathering. “He gives purpose and meaning to living.”

David Cooper, a 33-year-old high school teacher from Camarillo, said the event had given him a religious boost.

“When you look and see all these other believers, you realize you are not standing alone,” said Cooper, wearing a baseball cap that read “More Faith.”