Two churches in the San Diego Southern Baptist Association worshipped and celebrated together during their anniversaries on Sunday at 4 PM, March 10, 2024, in San Diego, CA. Sonlight Church (formerly called “First Baptist Bay Park”) was founded in the post-WW-II era in 1949. Led by the founding leader, Pastor Raymond Lee, Seeworld Baptist Church started in 1997. After retiring from the U.S. Army (82nd Airborne), Lee became a minister.
Pastor Lee led the celebration. He appreciated everyone for attending the annual celebration. Lee created a unique special video presentation that included Pastor Henry Peterson, former Pastor of Sonlight and US Air Force Retired, sharing the message with all in attendance. Peterson was promoted to heaven last year.
Judy Peterson was deeply moved by her husband’s message. With tears flowing on her cheeks, Judy said, “I really missed my husband, Henry.” It was a bitter/sweet experience for Judy and John Petersen, her son. Bitter because Henry is gone. Sweet because they know that Henry is in a better place in heaven. Sweet because Sonlight continues to grow. In addition, Pastor Lee and Seeworld, a Korean-American-speaking Church, are great supporters of Sonlight, an English-speaking Church.
One of the Sonlight Church members, Col. R.P. Bromley (Pat) USMC (Ret), commented: “There were many memorable events throughout the evening. Noteworthy were the videos and photos of the beloved Sonlight Church Pastor/Chaplain Henry Lee Peterson, who headed the Sonlight Church for over 27 years. Unfortunately, Henry passed on December 9, 2023, leaving a huge void that can’t be filled. He was noticeably missed by members of both churches, many friends, his immediate family, and especially his devoted and loving wife, Judy K. Peterson. Judy and her Son John attended, and both were emotionally moved by the love and caring comments shared and displayed. The beautifully decorated sanctuary and delicious Korean cuisine were enjoyed by all and topped off the fantastic anniversary celebration.”
Six Korean American pastors and a U.S. Navy Chaplain, Retired, were in attendance. Pastor Chan Hee Kang and Chaplain Don Biadog made congratulatory remarks. The historic service concluded with moving musical performances. Rick Salde, a US Army Retired, played “How Great Thou Art” on saxophone, and the Korean joint choir sang praise and worship songs. Pastor Daniel Chung led the benediction. A variety of Asian (Korean and Filipino) and American foods and desserts were served by the Seeworld Church WMU ladies. There was a camaraderie among like-minded believers and friends on the nicely decorated tables.
The two churches, members of the San Diego Southern Baptist Association, bonded together during their three-hour dual service and anniversary celebration! It was cool outside, but the fellowship was genuinely warm inside the church building. The two congregations have a united goal – Faithfully sharing the Love of God and Shine the Light for Christ for many, many more years in the Bay Park area and beyond.
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