10/05/2024
Hello Willow Pumpkin Patch and Willow Lights Family, friends, and neighbors,
As we approach the festive season, we're reminded of the many blessings God has given us throughout the year, and we're grateful for the opportunity to celebrate with you. However, 2024 has been a year of unexpected challenges, and we've had to adjust our plans accordingly.
For those who may not know, Willow Lights was born in 2018 as a tribute to our Founding Pastor and Patriarch, Salvador Ortiz Jr. His son, Desi, had envisioned building Willow Lights with him in 2014, but life had other plans. After Pastor Sal's passing in 2014, Desi and the church family took time to heal and eventually brought the idea of Willow Lights to life in 2018. The following year, we introduced Willow Pumpkin Patch, and both events have become beloved traditions on the Central Coast.
This year, our Power of God Christian Center Family is navigating loss once again. First was the passing of Jesse Pizano, a dedicated volunteer from our 2023 season, and more recently, Desi's sister, Monica Ayon, a retired Captain from the California Men's Colony, passed away. As we've taken time to comfort each other and heal, we've realized that we need to prioritize our family and community's well-being - time that would normally have been spent preparing the festival grounds for these events.
With that in mind, we've made the difficult decision to take a hiatus from Willow Pumpkin Patch and Willow Lights in 2024. Instead, we're adopting the motto "See you in 2025!" and encouraging our volunteers to focus on their faith in God, healing, and loved ones.
Although we won't be hosting our usual events at the ranch, we're excited to announce a pop-up event in Santa Maria, located at the Flooring 101 parking lot on the corner of Donovan and Miller (dates and time TBD). We'll also be sharing a special Christmas surprise in November, so stay tuned!
This isn't goodbye; it's simply "See you in 2025!" From our family at Power of God Christian Center, Willow Pumpkin Patch, and Willow Lights, we want to remind you to cherish your loved ones, forgive, and love like Jesus. You're always welcome to join us for church services at Power of God Christian Center, 1503 N McClelland St, Santa Maria, CA 93454.
Blessings to you and yours!
- PowerOfGodChristianCenter.com
