By Simon Cassar
This year, Capitola has certainly had its fair share of trials and burdens. Jesus also had trials and burdens and this year on Good Friday, churches throughout the community will be gathering to paddle out and form a massive crown of thorns symbolizing what Jesus Christ went through to show us “The Way” to an awesome life.
2022 Surfers form a cross on Capitola Beach
Why paddle out? In surf culture — when a loved one passes away, we paddle out to honor their impact & express gratitude for the life they lived. In Santa Cruz tradition, local churches in our community are gathering to paddle out – honoring the life of Jesus & His sacrifice on the cross.
All are welcome — please bring family & friends! You can paddle out or join us on the shore on Friday, April 7, between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. at the Capitola Beach Esplanade to gather for an uplifting message, reflections, awesome uplifting worship concert music by Kokua music while having awesome fellowship with the Capitola community and most of all baptism for those who want a new awesome life that will last for all eternity.
Joe McCrosky, from Christian Surfers, will coordinate the cross being formed while Danny Bennett from The Coastlands will coordinate the Paddle Out ceremony.
2022 Good Friday Paddle Out in Capitola
Anyone who wants to know more about our hope in Jesus Christ and His awesome love is welcome to join in this unique building of the cross with surfboards this Good Friday.
Also, we are including hula again this year albeit not the same troupe.
For more information on this event, see www.facebook.com/TheCoastlands.
Are you or is someone in your family interested in getting baptized, following Jesus’s direction in Matthew 28:18-20? Kids from 1st grade up and adults are welcome to sign up and take the next step in their faith journey! Please sign up at Coastlands church, 831-688-5775.
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For more information, call Coastlands 831-688-5775.
TOP PHOTO: 2022 Baptism at Capitola Beach