On Sunday, March 2, 2025, in San Diego, CA, members of both congregations gathered to celebrate See World Baptist Church's 28th anniversary.
Head Pastor, Raymond Y. Lee, and his wife, Celia Lee, led both congregations in praise and worship. Rick Salde, a longtime church member and U.S. Army Vietnam veteran, blessed the members and guests by playing his saxophone during the 11:00 service.
Reverend Raymond Lee is the founder of See World Baptist Church. Since Pastor Patterson's passing, he has also taken on the role of Head Pastor of Sonlight Church. Under the guidance of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, he has been leading both congregations through bi-lingual (English and Korean) services every week. With the blessings of Pastor Henry and Judy Peterson since 1997, See World Baptist Church and Sonlight Church continue to grow.
Pastor Raymond preached on “Faith with God.” The joint service blended with multi-languages of Korean and English. There’s an excitement and spirit of unity in the diverse community of mainly Koreans, Filipinos, and Anglos.
Pastor Raymond Lee's message on faith-based in Hebrews 11:1-3 challenged every member to continue living in faith. Pastor Henry Patterson, the former Pastor of Sonlight Church, sponsored the See World Church 28 years ago. The two churches have a historic partnership since 1997 in spreading the gospel in San Diego County and beyond. Sonlight and See World churches host the office of the San Diego Southern Baptist Association.
Pastor Raymond’s message cited Jacob’s example of faith. The church faced challenges over the last 28 years, but by God’s grace, we are still “standing tall.” He added we must continue to walk by faith and remain strong and confident.
Pastor Raymond asked me to share a message of encouragement and congratulations. I shared the most important first four words in the Bible, "In the beginning God” Gen 1:1a. These first four words are foundational in our journey with God. The verse “affirms that God is the creator of the entire universe, establishing His sovereignty and ultimate authority over all that exists.” It is also the basis of a victorious journey when we realize that God calls us to a higher purpose and mission. This involves “serving others, sharing the gospel, and making a positive impact in the world.”
The future of the two churches is brighter than ever. The two churches continue to shine in the dark community of Bay Park, San Diego. They have room to grow, with 110 capacities in the worship auditorium, three offices, multiple Sunday school spaces, and a fellowship hall.
The warm fellowship and compassionate spirit among the members of both churches encouraged everyone in attendance. The presence of the Lord was felt in a packed church during the joyful 28th-anniversary celebration.