Justice 23:23 in SoCal

This connecting congregation is passionate about being living witnesses of God’s heart wherever they go.

RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. — At Cucamonga Christian Fellowship, worship and justice go hand in hand. Pastor Fraser Venter is using Matthew 23:23 as a pivotal verse for a series aimed at inspiring his congregation to be living witnesses of God’s heart of justice, demonstrating their understanding through acts of love and worship.

What began in April will culminate August 23, with hopefully every member performing 23 acts of worship and justice, especially during the final 23 days. Venter cites Southern California Conference Superintendant Steve Fitch, who, when he learned about the deforestation of Ethiopia, was burdened to begin a ministry. “I hope our people will come up with exciting, creative ways to fulfill their destiny in this generation,” says Venter, “and that our individuals, families and small groups will be the hands and feet of Jesus confronting injustice everywhere.”

The 23:23 focus fits perfectly with what’s already in place at the church. Wednesday night prayer services draw numerous people from the congregation. “We storm the gates of heaven,” says Venter, who’s seen physical healings and restored relationships. “The Lord isn’t so concerned about Sunday morning attendance,” Venter adds. “But He is concerned about how many of His people are praying.”

The church’s new café

Every summer the church partners with Child Protective Services to run a county-wide sports fair that draws 350+ kids. More than 120 church volunteers help with sports clinics, equipment giveaways and appearances by famous athletes. Event director Melanie Neilson is the city and world missions pastor of Cucamonga Christian. Always a community favorite, Venter says the fair clearly shows us what Jesus would do: “He’d be here with these kids!”

Thirty-five people came to Christ on Easter Sunday; 50 were baptized in a recent eight-month period. A new café is open and serving all who come to be loved and welcomed. This congregation is passionate about reaching out for God and expanding its understanding of just what that entails … 23 times over.