By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the PRESS
The basketball court at Roloff Park is usually a place for bounce passes and fast breaks, but last Friday evening it became something entirely different. As the sun set on November 21, the space transformed into a glowing outdoor sanctuary, drawing families, neighbors, and curious passersby as Cross Church hosted its first Thanksgiving Worship Night—a gathering meant to carry faith into the heart of the community.
Campus Pastor Ramiro “Pastor Ram” Lerma said the idea grew out of a desire to meet people where they are, whether spiritually, emotionally, or simply geographically. “This vision was born from our desire to take the presence of God beyond our church walls and into the community,” he said. “Thanksgiving is a time of reflection and gratitude, and we wanted to create a space where families who may not have a church home can encounter God in a real and personal way.”
The event was organized by Cross Church’s Engagement Ministry, led by Steven and Lizette Hirschhorn, whose mission focuses on reaching individuals who may never step inside a traditional church. Pastor Ram said the outreach reflects the church’s “Army Church” vision: Discover. Develop. Deploy. “We believe we are the church,” he said. “Because of that, we engage, connect, and serve beyond our four walls. We are raising up an army to lead a spiritual revolution, an army that serves, loves, and fights spiritual battles through prayer, worship, and obedience.”
Hosting the worship night in an open, familiar community setting was intentional. Families sat in lawn chairs, children played at the edges of the court, and the music carried across the park, inviting even those who hadn’t planned to attend. “Being outdoors in a familiar community space removes barriers,” Pastor Ram said. “It symbolizes bringing worship into the everyday life of the city. Worship at the park brings people together, believers, families, neighbors, and even passersby who may hear the music and feel drawn in.”
At the center of the night was a message of nearness and hope. Pastor Ram said he wanted people to leave knowing they are seen and valued. “We want people reminded that God sees them, He cares for them, and He invites them into a life of hope, purpose, and relationship with Him.”
Voices rose in unison as the worship team led a setlist filled with songs of gratitude and breakthrough. Testimonies followed, with residents sharing moments of faith and transformation from the past year. Dedicated times of prayer were offered for families, for the City of Laguna Vista, and for anyone seeking encouragement.
“Worship, praise, and prayer shift the atmosphere,” Pastor Ram said. “They create unity, bring healing, and remind us that we are one community under God’s grace.”
As the final notes drifted across Roloff Park, organizers said they hoped the night would linger in the hearts of those who came. Pastor Ram expressed gratitude for the chance to bring the event to Laguna Vista. “Thank you for giving us the opportunity to share this event with the community,” he said. “We pray it blesses everyone who attends.”
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