On select holidays, All Nations church members in Monrovia take small gifts to the church’s closest 100 neighbors. “When we first introduced ourselves and told them we were from the All Nations church, many looked puzzled and asked, ‘What church?’” Pastor Myriam Salcedo-Gonzalez said. “They were not even aware that our church was in their neighborhood!”

With repeat visits and small gifts proclaiming, "This is our small way to let you know that God loves you,” that has changed. Gift packets include a business card with church contact information and an invitation to “Let us know if we can be of any service.”

“What we especially like about this ministry is that our children and youth find it easy to participate,” noted the pastor. “No speeches; they just say that they are from the neighborhood Adventist church, with a little gift.”

In the fall, the church hosts a harvest festival as an alternative to Halloween trick or treating. “Over the years the festival has evolved into a real outreach to the community,” said Celia Duran, children’s ministry leader. “It’s held on the front lawn, so passers-by can enjoy the Bible- and nature-themed games, too. Neighbors stopped in with their children to enjoy the games, refreshments and handouts along with church members’ children and friends.”

Some community parents returned later in the fall for a singalong. “Let us know when you have other events,” one said. “We’d like to know about it. One day we are coming to worship with you!”

On Mondays at 6 p.m. the church opens for prayer and meditation. Soft music and nature videos provide a worshipful atmosphere. At 7 o’clock, Gonzalez asks for prayer requests and praises before prayer and a brief Bible study focused on prayer and daily living. When the local ministerial association announced the prayer times, a local youth pastor and member attended.

Earlier this year, Gonzalez called members to remember the community and be part of the solution to community problems. “Let us see what we can do as a church to help our town,” she urged after a local, gang-related slaying, then encouraged attendance at a peace rally in the park after church.

All Nations’ leadership planned to offer a tutoring service as a contribution to fill a perceived need, helping the children and youth who play in the church parking lot.