Gratitude Galore: Summer + Fall at BJM
Summertime’s BRIGHT Moments
Summer brought our high school and college students back to Alliance Redwood Campground, where 17 students gathered for our annual camp experience. Immersed in the beauty of the redwoods, these young people encountered God’s presence in transformative ways.
This year’s summer camp was made even more special by the presence of our Azul alumni, who returned to serve their peers as student leaders. Through acts of love like praying over other students, washing their feet, and providing a listening ear and endless laughs, these alumni modeled servant leadership, creating a powerful and unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Fall Foundations & Celebrations
This fall, we embraced a season of strengthening the foundations of our ministry, guided by reflection, renewal, and growth. As a staff, we revisited our core values—Christ-centeredness, creativity, community, and restoration—grounding ourselves in the "why" behind all we do. This intentionality flowed into our programs, from Bible studies with families and youth exploring the Sermon on the Mount, to the Lord’s Prayer inspiring our dance classes, and infrastructure and systems training that equips us for future impact.
Amid these foundational investments, we celebrated SIX transformative years of EdenMade! What began as neighborhood prayer walks has flourished into a vibrant ministry of hope and restoration for women in the adult entertainment industry. EdenMade Nights have become a safe space for connection, peace, and worship, where women are empowered to dream and rebuild their lives.
This fall also brought new beginnings with Sunday evening bilingual Bible studies and the relaunch of our dance classes, now featuring classical ballet. Watching our young dancers embrace their craft with joy and discipline has been a beautiful reminder of the transformative power of creativity.
“Thank you so much for your support! Last year in camp, I came as a student and this year I was able to come as a leader. Both were incredible experiences! I saw so much joy, curiosity and kindness grow in every student. This year was so impactful, like never before!”
Then in August, our staff joined YWAM Bay Area for shared learning and training on Christian Community Development. The sessions, led by Coach Wayne and Anne Gordon, enriched our understanding of loving God and our neighbors through practical, compassionate ministry. We ended the time together with a restful retreat in the redwoods, reflecting on God’s goodness and joyfully pressing forward in the mission He has entrusted to us. “Count it all joy” out of James 1 was the prayer and declaration of our time together.
We launched our second Azul Cohort and continued WildFlour, our pizza pop-up that offers students valuable job experience while fostering creativity and community. Watching these students grow in faith, purpose, and skills has been a profound joy. We also welcomed new mentors into our SHINE Mentorship Program, where girls are gaining confidence, life skills, and a sense of purpose through holistic, relationship-based guidance.
This season has been one of reflection, investment, and celebration, and we are filled with gratitude for all God is doing as we move forward together.
