Welcome to Ocean Gate Southern Baptist Church. Founded in the early 1950s this church has a unique and inspiring story.
Ocean Gate Southern Baptist Church started with a small group and a big vision. The original church was only 1000 square feet. In 1955 the church underwent reconstruction that added 4000 square feet. This expansion included offices and Sunday school classrooms. The vision included new classrooms a kitchen and space for another sanctuary.
But the journey wasn’t without its challenges. On the night the reconstruction was finished all the windows were broken. The pastor at the time responded uniquely. He attributed the damage to their failure to reach those responsible for Jesus. This perspective proved transformative.
Eventually the individuals responsible turned themselves in. They accepted Christ. One even became a minister. Ocean Gate Southern Baptist Church experienced rapid growth. It evolved to emphasize signs wonders miracles speaking in tongues and strict adherence to the Bible.
David Manila is the pastor of Ocean Gate Ministry formerly known as Ocean Gate Southern Baptist Church. He has served as pastor for over 19 years.
Ocean Gate Southern Baptist Church is a family-oriented church. The community actively engages in international food ministry. They have sent food worldwide aiding Ukraine South Africa Mexico and Belize. They also support various local organizations. The church collaborates with men’s and women’s homes. They conduct prison ministries. Their reach extends throughout Southern California.
Ocean Gate Southern Baptist Church holds adult and children’s Sunday school classes at 9:30 a.m. Services begin at 11:00 a.m. Bible study is held at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday evenings. Sometimes they combine services with their Spanish church Ocean Gate Centro Christiano.
The church is a member of Crescent Bay Southern Baptist Association of Greater Los Angeles Baptist Convention. It is described as a small country/family-style Bible-driven church. Their Director of Missions calls it a country church in the city. Many of their songs have a country flavor.
Ocean Gate Southern Baptist Church enjoys social events. These include monthly fellowship breakfasts an annual chili cook-off and music jamborees. They invite other churches to participate. They also have special music for holidays.
Ocean Gate Southern Baptist Church watches out for one another with moral support. This includes their own congregation and their on-site Spanish church. Ocean Gate Centro Christiano occupies the upstairs portion of their building. The kitchen-equipped meeting hall is shared.
Ocean Gate Southern Baptist Church extends an open invitation. Come worship with them and join their church family. Their arms are always open. They commit to walking in Christian love advancing the church in knowledge and holiness and supporting its ministry financially.