Security as Ministry at Soquel Camp Meeting

SOQUEL, Calif. — For many, Soquel Camp Meeting represents worship, fellowship and family traditions. For the security team, it's also a mission field.

"I grew up coming to camp meeting every year," recalled one team member. "My family lived at Monterey Bay Academy, and my parents would bring our trailer. I loved the children's programs and remember the old store and icehouse. As a kid, I carried groceries or bags of ice to campers' tents to earn quarters for candy."

Those early memories forged a lifelong connection to the campgrounds. Today, he serves on the Soquel Camp Meeting security team, a 24-hour operation protecting people and property.

Beyond Traffic and Parking

While security is often seen managing traffic and directing parking, their responsibilities run much deeper. Team members monitor the grounds around the clock, respond to emergencies and ensure a safe environment for thousands of attendees.

"If there's a fire or medical emergency, we're first to respond," Lt. Matthew Garcia explained. "We assess the situation and handle it until additional help arrives."

The team includes active and retired law enforcement officers, registered nurses, paramedics, EMTs and firefighters who bring professional expertise to camp each summer.

Ministry in Action

For the security team, their role transcends protection — they view their work as ministry. Over the years, team members have interacted with campers in ways that created lasting spiritual impact.

"One year, we dealt with a teenager who was rough around the edges," Lt. Matthew Garcia recalled. "Years later, that young man returned and said, 'Do you remember me? The way you treated me was a turning point in my life. It made me rethink my direction. Today, I'm on the path to becoming a minister.'"

Such moments remind the team that their mission extends beyond safety. Their presence offers protection, encouragement, mentorship and a reflection of God's care.

"The work we do here goes far beyond patrolling the campus," he said. "It's about touching lives in ways that may change someone's future."

Filmed by Ricardo Camacho

Written by Justin Kim