Church on the Beach

I was helping Michelle vend her sandals in the park one day and this woman comes up and gives me a card.

This woman, Marta, became one of my good friends and is the wife of Pastor Terry. She tells me church is held at the pavilion at Hawksnest Beach and asks if I would like to attend? On the beach?? Hell, er, heck yes!!!

When I arrive on Sunday, I am introduced to some ‘part-timers’, usually here just in the winter months and part of spring. Just like me……but they actually own homes on the island😚. Okay, NOT ‘just like me’ but some of the most down-to-earth, friendly and loving people you’ll ever meet!

One couple, Charlie and Judy, decided to start a ‘hot dog ministry’ for after the service. Other members of the church bring side dishes to share along with Judy‘s famous chocolate chip cookies 🍪 Several people who attend Freshwater Church are tourists and it’s a nice way to get to know one another better. Who doesn’t like a free picnic on the beach?

Learning more about Freshwater Church, I was told by Terry and Marta the church provides a children’s carnival in the the ballpark in Cruz Bay in the summertime to reach out to the community’s kids. They get volunteers from churches in the States to come down to help in the blazing heat of July🥵 Those are some dedicated folks outpouring God’s love to the kids native to this island.

Later I am introduced to Amber, who started a hike, snorkel and devotion meet-up once a week. I definitely get in on this great idea of hiking to a beach , snorkeling and then having a short devotion. What a great way to explore the island and bond with some wonderful women! I cannot begin to tell you how important these Freshwater women have become in my life. We are able to tell each other anything and pray for one another when times get tough. Soul sisters!

Life on St. John became even sweeter after being introduced to Freshwater church! If you are ever on St. John, please check it out, you won’t regret it!