Archive for the ‘Faith’ Category

6th Annual Team Jesus Outreach Ministries Fundraising Gala Nov. 6

Friday, October 23rd, 2026

Sponsorship opportunities available

By Team Jesus Outreach Ministries

You’re Invited!

Join us for the 6th Annual Team Jesus Outreach Ministries Fundraising Gala on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 5:00 PM–10:00 PM at Lone Tree Golf & Event Center, 4800 Golf Course Road in Antioch.

Come enjoy a beautiful evening with a delicious buffet dinner, carving station, silent auction, raffle, special Guest speakers and great company, all while supporting a wonderful cause.

Tickets are $100 each. You can purchase your tickets in person or simply scan the QR code on the flyer to purchase online.

Your support helps Team Jesus Outreach Ministries continue providing food and essential resources to families in our community.

Free Holy Eve Community Carnival at Grace Bible Fellowship in Antioch Oct. 31

Friday, October 23rd, 2026

Presented by Grace Arms of Antioch. For more information visit www.gracearmsofantioch.org.

Meet with Antioch Police at St. John’s Lutheran Church Oct. 10th

Thursday, October 8th, 2026

During 2026 National Faith & Blue Weekend

By Allen D. Payton

Everyone is welcome!

As part of the 2026 National Faith & Blue Weekend, St. John’s Lutheran Church in Antioch is hosting a community meeting with the Antioch Police Department on Saturday, Oct. 10 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

The event includes a Community Pumpkin Patch with free pumpkins for kids under 12, caramel apples, treat bags for children and bouncy house, plus, Story Time at 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM.

According to the FaithandBlue.org website, “National Faith & Blue Weekend facilitates safer and stronger communities by engaging law enforcement officers and local residents through the connections of faith-based organizations.”

“Faith & Blue is based on the premise that strong communities are built through mutual respect and understanding. Law enforcement and faith institutions are key pillars of each community, and when they work together, neighborhoods thrive.”

The upcoming National Faith & Blue Weekend, Oct. 9-12, are “four days of locally organized community-officer engagement as part of the nation’s largest annual collaborative policing initiative.”

“The National Faith & Blue Weekend organizers represent every major national law enforcement membership and professional organization in the United States and every faith tradition. The effort is being co-convened by MovementForward, Inc. and the USDOJ Office of Community Oriented Policing Services.”

St. John’s Lutheran Church is located at 1360 E. Tregallas Road.

Faith & Blue Program BBQ in Antioch Friday, Oct. 9

Sunday, October 4th, 2026

Co-hosted by Antioch Police Department and Grace Bible Fellowship

Part of 2026 National Faith & Blue Weekend

By Allen D. Payton

The Antioch community is invited to attend a Faith and Blue Program BBQ Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, from 6:30-8:00 PM at Grace Bible Fellowship of Antioch co-hosted with the Antioch Police Department. The event is part of the 2026 National Faith & Blue Weekend.

UPDATE: According to the FaithandBlue.org website, “National Faith & Blue Weekend facilitates safer and stronger communities by engaging law enforcement officers and local residents through the connections of faith-based organizations.”

“Faith & Blue is based on the premise that strong communities are built through mutual respect and understanding. Law enforcement and faith institutions are key pillars of each community, and when they work together, neighborhoods thrive.”

The upcoming National Faith & Blue Weekend, Oct. 9-12, are “four days of locally organized community-officer engagement as part of the nation’s largest annual collaborative policing initiative.”

“The National Faith & Blue Weekend organizers represent every major national law enforcement membership and professional organization in the United States and every faith tradition. The effort is being co-convened by MovementForward, Inc. and the USDOJ Office of Community Oriented Policing Services.”

Source: Faith&Blue.org

Event Itinerary

Following a Social Time from 6:30-6:50 PM and introductions, a community discussion will be held on the following topics:

Public Safety

•     Antioch Police Department  representatives will share information and resources related to public safety.

•     Provide residents with an opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and discuss safety issues affecting the community.

Conflict Resolution & Community Engagement

•     Discuss ways the church, police department, and community can work together to help reduce violence, address neighborhood concerns, and resolve conflicts peacefully.

•     Explore opportunities for ongoing community engagement, outreach, and partnership.

Those in attendance will then identify possible next steps and future opportunities for collaboration.

Grace Bible Fellowship is located at 3415 Oakley Road in Antioch. For more information visit www.gbfofantioch.org.

Buffet Breakfast hosted by Team Jesus Outreach Ministries, Antioch Chamber of Commerce Oct. 10

Saturday, October 3rd, 2026

Team Jesus Outreach Ministries is a non-profit organization committed to providing basic necessities to those in need. Together, we can make a difference in their lives by providing food, water, clothing, toiletries, and positive words. Our ministry team and volunteers reach out into the local community to share the unconditional, uncondemning, and all-consuming love of God!

The breakfast will be held from 9:00-11:00 AM at 11 Texas Street in Antioch.

For more information visit www.teamjesusoutreach.org.

Disciples Car Club Ministry, Rivertown Community Church to hold Benefit Car Show in Antioch Oct. 10

Saturday, October 3rd, 2026

By Rivertown Community Church

Get ready for an incredible day of classic cars, family fun, and community impact! Join Disciples Car Club Ministry and Rivertown Community Church for a high-energy Benefit Car Show you won’t want to miss Saturday, October 10, 2026.

Whether you’re bringing a ride, setting up as a vendor, or just coming to enjoy the day—there’s something here for everyone.

BENEFIT CAR SHOW

October 10, 2026

Rivertown Community Church

11 Worrell Road, Antioch

EVENT SCHEDULE

9:00 AM – Vehicle Arrival

10:00 AM – Show Starts

11:00 AM – 1:30 PM – Opportunity Drawings + Pie Eating Contest (Cash Prizes!)

2:00 PM – Awards

2:30 PM – Roll Out

VEHICLE REGISTRATION

$30 Early Registration

$35 Day of Event

Register Your Vehicle Here: https://forms.gle/5FtEDg44h5WPoPdZ8

VENDOR REGISTRATION

Want to showcase your business or products? We’d love to have you! We will not need food vendors.

Register as a Vendor Here: https://forms.gle/2A7fizeJBWmY28sAA

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • Classic Cars & Custom Builds
  • Kids Zone (Fun for the whole family!)
  • Awards & Trophies
  • Food & Fellowship
  • Opportunity Drawings
  • Pie Eating Contest

WHY IT MATTERS

All proceeds go toward:

  • Sending men to camp
  • Providing holiday gifts for families in need through our Adopt-A-Family outreach

Bring your family, invite your friends, and come be part of something bigger than just a car show—it’s a day of community, connection, and making a difference.

There’s a seat for everyone.

As a final note- RIVERTOWN COMMUNITY CHURCH is the only entity working on Registration, The church will be the only way WE reach out to you. Any comments from other individuals are fraudulent and not to be trusted!

For more information about Rivertown Community Church visit https://sites.google.com/rivertowncc.com/rcc/. For more information about the Disciples Car Club Ministry visit www.facebook.com/disciplesccm.

El Campanil Theatre board president says shows to run through Nov. 30th

Friday, October 2nd, 2026
El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation Board President Sharon Sobel Idul, the theatre and 60-Day Notice posted on the front door of the ticket office Wednesday morning, Sept. 30th. Sources: Sobel Idul and El Campanil Theatre.

Following receipt of 60-day rental termination notice

By Sharon Sobel Idul, Board President, El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation

The El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation (ECTPF) has been served with a 60-day notice from the attorney representing the new owners terminating our tenancy. These owners made no attempt to discuss the Foundation’s continued operations at the theatre with ECTPF before the notice was served. (See related article)

We know this news will be difficult for the many people who love the theatre.  We want our audiences, artists, and neighbors to hear this clearly: all shows currently on the calendar through November 30 will take place. We look forward to seeing you all soon. 

We are also working with Black Diamond Ballet to see whether its beloved production of Nutcracker can be moved to an earlier date at El Campani Theatre. We know how much this holiday tradition means to our community and we will share an update as soon as plans are confirmed.

For years, you have filled the seats, made donations, volunteered your time, brought friends to performances, and spoken up for this theatre. Your support has meant more to us than we can say. We are grateful to be part of a community that cares so deeply.

We hope you’ll join us for the shows ahead. Bring someone who has never been to El Campanil Theatre. Share an event you’re excited about. Most of all, come enjoy the music, dance, and stories that this stage was made for.

Find upcoming shows, tickets at www.ElCampanilTheatre.com. We will share further updates as they become available.

Source: El Campanil Theatre

State law requires a 60-day notice to terminate tenancy for commercial buildings.

As previously reported, on August 20th, Sobel Idul issued a statement that included, “The El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation (ECTPF)…is a tenant of the theatre property, which is owned by an out-of-state landlord. We are aware of the potential sale of the property and of fundraising efforts being circulated online by a potential buyer. Those efforts are independent of ECTPF and do not reflect the mission of our organization and it is unlikely that we would be able to continue to provide theatre programming at El Campanil Theatre if they acquire the space.

She further wrote, “We hope the city, our community, and artists alike can come together to help maintain our mission, if not we will no longer be able to continue our arts management in this space.”  

“For now, our focus remains on operating the theatre, welcoming audiences and community organizations, supporting the artists and renters who bring this stage to life, and continuing to be a gathering place for Antioch and the surrounding region,” Sobel Idul concluded in her Aug. 20th statement.

About the El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation

The El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation is the nonprofit organization dedicated to maintaining and operating El Campanil Theatre, a historic performing arts venue in downtown Antioch, California. Originally opened in 1928, the theatre is a cherished cultural landmark presenting live performances, films, and educational programs for audiences of all ages. The Foundation relies on community donations to preserve this beloved institution and keep the arts thriving in East Contra Costa County.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

See related articles:

CA State Parks’ Office of Historic Preservation announces start of State Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program | Contra Costa Herald

Antioch Council hears earful from public upset with El Campanil Theatre sale | Antioch Herald

Former El Campanil Theatre leader says they tried to get City to take over building or form partnership before 2023 sale | Antioch Herald

Former El Campanil Theatre leader asks church to reconsider purchase | Antioch Herald

City of Antioch had ample funds to purchase El Campanil Theatre in 2023 and this year, spoke to owner before sale | Antioch Herald

El Campanil Theatre board president responds to concerns, questions, accusations over church’s purchase of building | Antioch Herald

Owner explains reasons for selling Antioch’s historic El Campanil Theatre | Antioch Herald Includes information regarding Community meeting gets heated after pastor, congregants invited in; false accusations made of carrying guns; claim of a police report filed

Historic El Campanil Theatre building sold to church led by Antioch resident | Antioch Herald

El Campanil Theatre to hold community meeting on building’s future Tuesday | Antioch Herald

Community rallies to support El Campanil Theatre as fundraising effort surpasses $50,000 goal | Antioch Herald

El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation launches community drive to keep arts alive in Antioch | Antioch Herald

Legendary Movement Church gets keys to legendary El Campanil Theatre

Tuesday, September 29th, 2026
Pastor Eli and Jane Herrera celebrate the title signing for El Campanil Theatre on Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026. Video screenshot by Legendary Movement Church (left) and photo by El Campanil Theatre (right).

Pastor calls it “historic moment” declares a “Year of Movement” for church

UPDATE 1: Says “not coming into downtown Antioch to diminish, erase, or destroy” but “add to the incredible history…” and “Church remains intentional about seeing Antioch and the Rivertown District thrive.”

UPDATE 2: Theatre foundation served with 60-day rental termination notice; “We’ll have shows thru Nov 30th it looks like!” – Foundation Board Chair Sobel Idul

By Allen D. Payton

Escrow on the sale of the 98-year-old El Campanil Theatre in Antioch’s historic downtown Rivertown closed Friday, September 25, four days earlier than originally planned for today, Sept. 29th. Legendary Movement Church is now the owner, only the fourth owner in the building’s history, including the Stamm and Beede families who built it, the El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation and Tung and Tiffany Bui.

But there are still performances scheduled in the theatre through December, including the next three Saturdays, and some members of the public, especially those who have already purchased tickets want to know if the show will go on.

In an email to tenants Friday afternoon, the Buis announced the close of escrow writing, “We…have been informed that the sale of the theater is complete and recorded.”

In a Facebook video post on Saturday by Eli Herrera, Lead Pastor of the church, which purchased the building, he encouraged his members to be at church on Sunday for a “Big Announcement”. Below that he also shared the Friday post on the Antioch Herald Facebook page announcing the close of escrow which reads, “Breaking: El Campanil Theatre sold! It’s been confirmed by the Herald that the sale recorded today, Friday, Sept. 25, four days earlier than originally scheduled.” Herrera wrote, “Well now that the news is out. Join us this Sunday at Legendary Movement for full statement and celebration. GOD DID IT.”

Then on Sunday, in a video posted on the church’s Instagram account and Facebook page, Herrera showed himself and his wife, Jane talking about the purchase while driving to and entering the Old Republic Title office, then meeting with the title officer and real estate broker Michael Temby, for the signing which occurred on Tuesday, September 22nd.

Eli and Jane Herrera speaking in their car on the way to the title office on Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026. Video screenshots source: Legendary Movement Church

Herrera said, “It’s closing day, baby and I’m super excited. I don’t know about ya’ll but I’m beyond ecstatic. Because today we close, we get the key, the church gets the key, the family gets the key, the Kingdom gets the key. What God starts, no man can stop. The doors that God opens nobody can shut. God’s ‘yes’ goes beyond anything we could ever think, ask or imagine.”

Real Estate Broker Michael Temby, who represented the church, speaks with Eli Herrera at the title office before the signing. Video screenshot.

In light of the resistance they’ve experienced from many in the community over the purchase of the theater, Temby offered some wisdom to the Herreras saying “Pilots love blue skies and tailwinds because that pushes you along and there’s no resistance. But there’s always headwinds in life and when you get the headwinds is when you grow and learn, and those create some extra character. We’ve all had some headwinds in this journey.” Eli replied, “Absolutely. It’s been a journey.”

Eli signs the purchase documents and the title office, Herreras and Temby pray together over the title docs. Video screenshots

After signing the papers, the four of them then prayed together over the transaction with their hands on the title documents and the Herreras celebrated with smiles while holding a signed document and a kiss.

Eli then thanked, “everybody who believed in the vision. Thank you to everybody who sowed a seed. Thank you to the families for all the hard work. I know this took an entire tribe to get this done.” Jane then said, “It was truly God’s super meeting our natural. We’re forever grateful for each and everyone of you who have believed and sowed into good soil.” That’s a reference to Jesus’ Parable of the Sower in the book of Matthew, chapter 13 in the Bible.

Eli concluded the video by saying, “I just want to encourage you, you ain’t seen nothing yet. God is still moving. God is still doing. Rivertown will be saved for Jesus.  Love you all.”

“The harvest is ready,” Jane added.

“Historic Moment” for Church

With the post of the video the Herreras also wrote, “TODAY, WE MADE HISTORY. 

Today marks a historic moment for Legendary Movement Church as we announced that we are officially the owners of the El Campanil Theatre at 602 W. 2nd Street in downtown Antioch, California.

There were mountains. There were battles. There were moments when we didn’t know how it was going to happen.

But God did.

Not man. Not our strength. Not our ability.

GOD DID THIS.

Every prayer. Every sacrifice. Every person who gave. Every person who stood in the gap. Every person who believed with us. We will never forget what it took to get here, and we will never forget WHO brought us here.

All glory belongs to Jesus.

And while today is a day to celebrate, we know this is not the finish line.

It’s the starting line.

There is work to do. People to reach. Families to restore. Generations to impact. A city to serve. A region to love. And a house to build for the glory of God.

We didn’t just acquire a building.

God entrusted us with a place where generations will encounter His presence.

Legendary, we’re home.

And we’re just getting started.

TO GOD BE ALL THE GLORY.”

————-

Efforts to reach Herrera since Friday have been unsuccessful. He was at a men’s retreat over the weekend. Herrera was asked if the performances currently planned for the theatre through December will go on, including the Nutcracker, which is a production of Black Diamond Ballet, owned by current foundation board president, Sharon Sobel Idul, and if he’s spoken to her.

Asked if she had spoken to Herrera, Sobel Idul responded on Monday, Sept. 28, “Still as of today no contact from the church or the pastor.”

A Sixty Day Notice of Termination of Tenancy was attached to the door to the ticket office of El Campanil Theatre Wednesday morning, Sept. 30th. Photo courtesy of Sharon Sobel Idul

UPDATE 2: Theatre Foundation Served with 60-Day Rental Termination Notice

The theatre foundation was served with a Sixty Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy on Wednesday, Sept. 29. Sobel Idul said, “It was taped to our door this morning.” California requires a 60-day notice to terminate tenancy for commercial buildings. So, the shows scheduled in October will go one.

Asked if she had spoken with the pastor, yet regarding possible other performances such as the Nutcracker in December, Sobel Idul responded, “Haven’t been by the theatre yet, but a community member posted this and his attorney called and confirmed that it was processed. Still no communication from the church. We’ll have shows thru Nov 30th it looks like!”

UPDATE 1: Pastor Tells Downtown Association Not Coming “to Diminish, Erase or Destroy” But “Add to the Incredible History”

However, during the monthly meeting of the Downtown Antioch Association Tuesday evening, Sept 29th, organization leader Debbie Blaisure received a message from Herrera which he asked her to read as he was unable to attend as planned, she shared.

He wrote, “To everyone gathered tonight, I know many of you are aware of Legendary Movement Church’s recent purchase of the El Campanil Theatre. I also understand that there may be different opinions and perspectives surrounding the purchase, and I respect that.

“What I want everyone to know is that my heart and our heart as a church remains intentional about seeing Antioch and the Rivertown District thrive.

“My family, our congregation, and I are not coming into downtown Antioch to diminish, erase, or destroy its history. We are simply believing that we can help add to the incredible history that has already been written here.

“You can count on Legendary Movement Church to have conversations, listen, participate, support community events, build relationships, and do our part to strengthen unity throughout our city. We want to be known as people who bring love, grace, compassion and a genuine desire to serve.

“As we enter the final quarter of this year and approach the holiday season, my prayer is that we can move forward together with peace, unity, and joy. We may not always agree on everything, but I believe we can still work together toward something we all share: a desire to see Antioch and Rivertown thrive and become everything we know they can be.

“God bless you all, and I look forward to the conversations and opportunities ahead.

“Pastor Eli Herrera Legendary Movement Church”

Screenshots of the listing for the theater building on the Vanguard Properties website on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026.

Real Estate Broker, Former Owner Won’t Say Why They Stopped Speaking With City

The listing on Vanguard.com shows the building was listed for sale on November 23, 2025, and remained on the market for 257 days. The description reads, “Prime opportunity to acquire a landmark property in the heart of Antioch’s revitalizing Rivertown Business District. Originally constructed in 1928 and restored beginning in 2003, El Campanil Theatre offers a unique blend of historic character and proven performance as a community arts venue. The property benefits from exceptional visibility along the Antioch waterfront, steady public traffic, and a long-standing reputation as a regional cultural destination. With a history of hosting over 100 annual events, performances, and rehearsals, the theatre provides immediate operational potential for continued arts programming, live entertainment, film screenings, special events, and private rentals. Its Spanish-style architecture, established community recognition, and central downtown location make it a standout asset for investors seeking a versatile, income-producing property with long-term upside. Surrounded by ongoing downtown development and the broader Rivertown Renaissance vision, El Campanil presents a strategic opportunity for investors, nonprofits, or developers looking to anchor growth in a high-exposure corridor. Ideal for continued performing arts use or adaptive reuse concepts such as mixed cultural venues, event operations, entertainment ventures, or community partner.”

As previously reported, Tung Bui said Michael Temby was his agent. However, it was later learned by the Herald, in a purchased Property Report, that Temby, a real estate broker, represented the church and his wife, Kellie, both of Discovery Bay-based Team Temby Properties, was the listing agent representing the Buis. That information is also available on real estate websites showing the listing of the theater building, including realty.com and Vanguard Properties which, as of Monday, September 28th, the sale price showed $1.45 million, $50,000 less than the $1.5 million asking price. As previously reported, the Buis bought the building from the foundation in May 2023 for $800,000.

As previously reported, Antioch District 1 City Councilwoman Tamisha Torres-Walker said she, Mayor Pro Tem Don Freitas, Acting City Manager Ana Cortez and Sobel Idul had been in discussions with Bui and Temby about the City possibly buying the building but was “blindsided” to see the video by Herrera posted on the church’s Instagram account about needing to raise the downpayment. Freitas later said he hadn’t spoken with either Tung Bui or the Tembys.

On Monday, Sept. 21st, Michael Temby and Tung Bui were sent a link to the article and asked if they were speaking with representatives of the City before accepting the church’s offer and, if so, why did the discussions stop. Temby was also asked if it was because he and Kellie were representing both parties. Neither responded. Previously, Temby said he would be, “Happy to answer any questions after escrow closes.”

But efforts to reach him following the sale with those and additional questions were unsuccessful prior to publication time.

Herrera Declares a “Year of Movement” for Church

Pastor Eli Herrera preaches during the Legendary Movement Church service at their current location in Pittsburg on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026, with an aerial photo of El Campanil Theatre on the screen behind him. Video screenshot of Facebook post.

In a video posted on the church’s Facebook page on Tuesday, of his sermon this past Sunday, Herrera spoke about the church’s new ownership of the building while preaching from the book of 1st Samuel chapter 7 about King David, with an aerial photo of the theater on the wall behind him, “The Bible says they took territory they took everything. He’s sitting there in a big house, in a big mansion. Sitting in the big building in the middle of a great city…his mind does not think of the possession, his mind thinks of the presence of God. I make you this vow as your pastor, I will never fall more in love with a building than the presence of God. The presence of God is everything. We won’t go if the presence of God does not come with us. His presence delivers us. His presence heals us. His presence brings salvation. His presence brings revival.”

Above the video he wrote, “YEAR OF MOVEMENT

“We don’t just want the promise. We want His presence. We don’t just want the territory. We want Jesus. We don’t just want a building. We want revival. Jesus is everything. Antioch doesn’t just need another church. Antioch needs an encounter with Jesus. LORD, IF YOUR PRESENCE DOESN’T GO WITH US, WE DON’T WANT TO GO. Revival is here in Antioch, California. And it will be all for His glory. #revivalinthecity #revival #legendarymvmnt #legendary #antiochca”

In the post directly below that, Herrera wrote, “His presence means everything to us. More than the building. More than the moment. More than the growth. If we have everything but His presence, we have nothing. Jesus, You are the reason for it all.”

To see the current schedule of performances visit Upcoming Events – El Campanil Theatre.

To learn more about Legendary Movement Church visit www.legendarymvmnt.com.  

Please check back later for any updates to this report.

See related articles:

CA State Parks’ Office of Historic Preservation announces start of State Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program | Contra Costa Herald

Antioch Council hears earful from public upset with El Campanil Theatre sale | Antioch Herald

Former El Campanil Theatre leader says they tried to get City to take over building or form partnership before 2023 sale | Antioch Herald

Former El Campanil Theatre leader asks church to reconsider purchase | Antioch Herald

City of Antioch had ample funds to purchase El Campanil Theatre in 2023 and this year, spoke to owner before sale | Antioch Herald

El Campanil Theatre board president responds to concerns, questions, accusations over church’s purchase of building | Antioch Herald

Owner explains reasons for selling Antioch’s historic El Campanil Theatre | Antioch Herald Includes information regarding Community meeting gets heated after pastor, congregants invited in; false accusations made of carrying guns; claim of a police report filed

Historic El Campanil Theatre building sold to church led by Antioch resident | Antioch Herald

El Campanil Theatre to hold community meeting on building’s future Tuesday | Antioch Herald

Community rallies to support El Campanil Theatre as fundraising effort surpasses $50,000 goal | Antioch Herald

El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation launches community drive to keep arts alive in Antioch | Antioch Herald