Young Women's Camp 2017

The Young Women of the Laguna Niguel Stake broke a record at Camp Hinckley this summer. They were at capacity when they enjoyed a week in the mountains of Big Bear. Fun was had, friendships were made, but most importantly, testimonies grew. 

The girls were pampered with a Spiritual Spa Day, an evening of fun with their Bishops, as well as a day at nearby amp Gregory for lake fun. 

The theme this year was "The Power Within" that focused on the scripture in Philippians 4:13 which reads, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." 

The goal of this year's Girls Camp was to have the girls leave camp with a strong testimony that they are of great worth and they can be super heroes in their own right. The Young Women of Laguna Niguel Stake know there is 'Power Within' each of them!

Seminary Graduation 2017

Aliso Viejo – More than 40 high school seniors from the Laguna Niguel Stake were recognized for their attendance and graduation from the seminary program on Wednesday (May 24).

The seminary program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a four-year religious education program for youth. In seminary, students and their teachers meet to study the scriptures, including the Bible (Old Testament and New Testament), The Book of Mormon, The Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. It provides the students with a chance to recognize the Holy Ghost and understand the atonement of Jesus Christ through their studies.

These amazing students generally attend seminary before school each day where they learn the scriptures, edify one another, partake in gospel discussions with their teacher and peers, and prepare themselves for their demanding days at school.

The graduation program began with a beautiful musical performance by Maddy Vance and continued with Doctrinal Mastery Speakers (Lauren Marocchi, Hannah Reynolds, Christian Burke, Samantha Del Rosario, Jessie DeGraw, Adrienne Taylor, Reece Kartchner, Hunter Mills, Dallin Luedtke and Summer Clawson).

Ten students from the Laguna Niguel Stake received the Disciple Award this year. To earn the award the student must read scriptures 10 minutes everyday, read the entire New Testament of the Bible, achieve 90% attendance, memorize all 25 doctrinal mastery scriptures, and give a Book of Mormon to a friend not of the LDS faith. Anna Sedgwick, Hanna Eyre, Carina Novillo, Amanda Miller, Olivia Wettengel, Audrey McKeon, Brooke Robison, Mary Sorenson, Blake Hawkins and Riley Curtis were all outstanding in completing these honors.

Janet Christensen, Seminary Principal, went on to recognize Alexis Doney and Caden Ashdown who had not missed a single day of seminary in four years. A huge accomplishment!

Well done to all the participants and graduates! A special shout out to the amazing teachers who prepare lessons each day and are there faithfully early each morning to mentor and guide these students. The love you show the students does not go unnoticed! 

Boy Scout 10K Run

Laguna Niguel, Calif. – The eighth annual Boy Scout 10K run broke records and made strides as over 150 racers competed and enjoyed the morning on Saturday (May 13).

The annual race included a 10K run through Wood Canyon and a 1-mile fun run, where the competition was fierce.  Racers were greeted with bumpin’ jams from the DJ as they checked in to receive their bibs and t-shirts.  Many scouts were on hand to help with the check-in and Troop 872 led the crowd with a flag ceremony, as a member of the troop played the violin and the audience sang the National Anthem.

Kent McLaren played host on the microphone as he guided the runners to the course and they were off! Scout troops welcomed the competitors back with cheers, high-fives and water as they crossed the finish line. Tyler Harwood led the pack with a 36:13 finish time while Kalina Preston sprinted to a first place finish in the women's division (45:02). 

The annual event put on by the scouts enabled them to raise money for their troops and to help cover the cost of activities such as Scout Camp and other camping/hiking trips. Seven troops were involved in the 10K this year including Troops 77 (Marina Hills), 726 (Wood Canyon), 730 (Dana Hills), 754 (San Juan Capistrano), 777 (Laguna Niguel), 872 (St. Anne’s) and 972 (Aliso Viejo.)

Co-coordinator for the event, Ron Hoopes, reflected, “We had more racers this year than any year before! We are so grateful for all of the participants and sponsors that support our local Boy Scout troops."

Rise Against Hunger

Aliso Viejo, Calif. – Community members of all ages joined together to package meals for international hunger relief non-profit organization, Rise Against Hunger (riseagainsthunger.org) last Saturday at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel in Aliso Viejo.

Nearly 600 volunteers turned out to set up, put together, and package more than 100,000 meals in three shifts, following weeks of earnest fundraising efforts for those meals.  The Rise Against Hunger (formerly Stop Hunger Now) local chapter organized the event and was sponsored by the Laguna Niguel Stake (LDS Church) and local community members.

The Church identified the project via its JustServe platform (justserve.org), which matches faith, non-profit, community and governmental organizations that need volunteers willing to help.

Volunteers arrived for 1 ½ hour shifts and worked while enjoying festive music, getting to know fellow volunteers, and they were rewarded with a gong and applause for each set of 5,000 meals packaged.

“It was really fun to see so many children involved and doing what they can to support Rise Against Hunger,” remarked volunteer, David Dowling.

Two-shift volunteer, Candace Carteen, observed, “Watching how everyone worked like a machine to get this done and the two and three year-olds working so hard and learning a work ethic, was so exciting to watch!”

Nearly $34,000 was raised by the community for the nutritious meals that will be sent to school feeding programs in 65 countries around the world.  Each meal cost 29 cents to develop, apart from volunteer labor to assemble and pack for shipment. The original goal was exceeded by more than $3,000 allowing for 10,000 additional meals.

This was the third annual food-packaging event for the Rise Against Hunger organization the Laguna Niguel congregations had sponsored.

“I wasn’t going to come, but I’m so glad I did because it was so cool and the energy was just electric,” exclaimed Annalee Austin, first-time volunteer.

Event organizer, Jenna Harline reflected, “Rise Against Hunger makes an event like this seamless. We made a big impact together. Tomorrow I hope each one of us will seek to make a small impact by serving the hungry, displaced and underprivileged in our communities. Many small acts of goodness can change the world.”

Stake Laurel + Priest Ugly Sweater Broom Hockey

December 22

The Priests and Laurels (16-18 yrs) of Laguna Niguel Stake enjoyed a festive evening competing and skating at Aliso Viejo Ice Palace a few days before Christmas. It was an awesome way to end finals and begin the holiday break with sweet skate moves, pizza and hot chocolate. 

More than 60 party goers took the opportunity to #lighttheworld by delivering canned goods to the activity for Mercy Warehouse which provides meals for families in need in the local area. Mercy House is a great opportunity for future volunteer service. 

2016 Christmas Chalk Walk

Aliso Viejo, Calif. -- The Laguna Niguel Stake hosted its third annual free community event, A Christmas Chalk Walk, on Friday and Saturday (Dec. 16 and 17) evenings.

Over 150 various artists participated in the event who ranged from young children to professionals that flew in from as far as Mexico and Canada. Artists began creating their masterpieces on Thursday and Friday while battling the rain. The skies cleared and the heavens opened Friday afternoon in time for the open house. 

The parking lot was full of Christmas magic as visitors meandered through the colorful displays of holiday whimsy. Guests were treated with hot chocolate to warm their spirits, fresh cinnamon rolls and pizza to please their bellies and festive music to delight their ears as they enjoyed the sights. 

A live nativity was presented to the patrons of the event as young men and women from the Laguna Niguel Stake portrayed the spectacular event of the coming of Jesus Christ. 

Event organizer and director of activities for the Laguna Niguel Stake, Kristen Kamerman remarked, "The artists have such a passion for doing this and find joy in sharing their talent. " 

Kamerman was supported by her "Dream Team" who helped with donations (Big Air, Nothing Bundt Cake, JimBoy's Tacos, Fresh Brothers Pizza, Sapphire Restaurant) volunteers, baking, cleaning, musicians, nativity cast and so much more to make A Christmas Chalk Walk a memorable tradition. 

Seven Boy Scouts Earn Eagle Award

Aliso Viejo, Calif. – Seven young men from Troop 77 of Laguna Niguel were honored with Boy Scouts of America’s top award of Eagle Scout, Saturday (October 15) night.

Chad Ames, Thomas Blackwelder, Luke Hamilton (not in attendance due to serving an LDS mission in Bentonville, Arkansas), Blake Hawkins, Ethan Hoopes, Ethan McBride and Luke Myer were recognized at a Court of Honor at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint’s Laguna Niguel Stake Center. The Court of Honor included a beautiful rendition of The National Anthem performed by Maddie Vance, along with a presentation of colors and Pledge of Allegiance by Troop 77 and led by Senior Patrol Leader, Darin Patel.

A slide show of the newest Eagles Scouts’ experiences during their years in Boy Scouts was presented to the audience of more than 100, along with an invitation to the Eagles Nest where Eagle Scouts in the audience were invited to stand up and share when and where they earned the award.

The honorees were bestowed the award of Eagle by Scout Master, Brian Hawkins which was followed by remarks by each new Eagle Scout of their favorite scouting memories and an introduction of their Scout Mentor. 

“I love baseball, I love my family, I love church, I love school and I love scouting,” reflected Eagle Scout, Ethan Hoopes.

That sentiment was felt throughout the night as the Eagle Scouts talked about their memories, their extensive Eagle Scout projects and their characters that have been shaped during the years in Boys Scouts of America.

The ceremony concluded with remarks by Bishop Troy Simmons and the retiring of colors by Troop 77.

The audience was treated to a reception with refreshments and tables that represented the Eagle Scouts with mementos, photos and displays of personality.

A highlight of the event included a five-table exhibit of Boy Scouts of America memorabilia dating back to the beginning of scouting, by Laguna Niguel Stake Scout Leader, Roger Miller. 

Congratulations to the seven new Eagle Scouts and their families. 

Laguna Niguel Stake Hoedown

Laguna Hills, Calif. – Howdy partner, the Laguna Niguel Stake Hoedown sure was a charmer. Folks were treated to good grub and all the fixins, fancy treats, games for all ages, mechanical bull, dancin’, and a show!

Nearly 1,000 stake members, family, friends, neighbors and surrounding communities enjoyed the afternoon and evening Saturday (October 8) at the Laguna Hills Community Center park celebrating in clean old-fashioned fun.

Stake Activities Director, Kristen Kamerman reflected, “Everyone came together and helped to give us an opportunity to unite the stake, reach out into the community as a beacon and have the light of Christ.”

Party-goers were treated to Sweet Lou’s BBQ savory pulled pork and chicken sandwiches along with beautifully delicious cupcakes provided by event guests. There was plenty to wet your whistle during the warm evening with water, lemonade and quenching watermelon.

Wards (congregations) competed in a relay match-up racing wheelbarrows, potato sack hopping, rolling pumpkins and a three-legged race. The mechanical bull was in full-force for the entire evening while children and adults displayed their prowess on the metal stag.

“The Stake BBQ was so perfect. Raising our family here (in a “big city”) has its advantages, but I miss many of the things I did as a child in a small town. The BBQ had those same wonderful feelings ---a safe, fun environment where I felt part of an extraordinary gathering,” expressed Jami Ward, stake member.

The evening continued with entertainment on the greenbelt. The crowd got on their feet doing the hokey pokey, that heralded into line dancing lead by professional caller, Vickie Jackson. Children and adults alike enjoyed dancing the night away with tunes expertly spun by DJ, Bruce Chang.

Laguna Niguel Stake President, mechanical bull rider and line dancer Robert Davis remarked, “Absolute grand slam. This event appealed to everyone.”

“Everybody thought the afternoon was wonderful. The location allowed for several different activities to be ongoing at the same time. The children were considered in the activities and more than adequately entertained and provided for,” raved stake member Dean Owens.

Attendees were invited to contribute to a school-supplies donation drive that will benefit school children affected by the floods in Louisiana along with local outreach programs.

Missionaries, serving in the California Irvine Mission and assigned to the Laguna Niguel Stake, assisted in facilitating a service booth where guests had the opportunity to make sleeping mats for the homeless. The mats are woven together using plastic shopping bags to create a beautiful crocheted looking mat that can provide comfort and is easy to care for.

The night was capped off with a movie under the stars as giggles and laughs filled the park watching the computer-animated comedy, Barnyard.

Kamerman along with high councilor, Walt Hick, and their “dream team” presented the community and stake with an event to remember. Reah-Ann Nobleza, Scott Flora, Bruce Chang, Patty Mackin, Bryan Thacker, Paige Flora, Kristy Rich, Kimberly Pearson, Jeff McPherson, the Laguna Niguel Stake Presidency and their wives on food service, countless stake members with food donations and every participant at the Hoedown contributed to a spectacular and joyful evening. 

Stop Hunger Now

April 30, 2016

 Aliso Viejo, Calif. – Last Saturday, over 750 local volunteers gathered to sort, prep and pack over 100,000 nutritious meals to be sent to school feeding programs in 65 countries around the world. The Stop Hunger Now national organization (stophungernow.com) and its local chapter organized the event which was sponsored by a local church congregation and community.

“By providing meals for school feeding programs children stay in school which helps bring up literacy rates and break the cycle of poverty and end hunger,” remarked Ryan Ponds of Stop Hunger Now.

 The local congregation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints known as the Laguna Niguel Stake hosted the volunteer packing event at its Aliso Viejo chapel. The Church identified the project via its JustServe Helping Hands platform (justserve.org) which matches faith, non-profit, community and governmental organizations that need volunteers willing to help.

“Millions of men, women and children in this world go hungry every day and we wanted to do something about it,” reflected Jenna Harline, Assistant Director of Interfaith Relations for the Laguna Niguel Stake and local organizer of the event.

Church members and general members of the community also raised over $30,000 dollars to fund the components of the meals that were packaged. Each meal cost 29 cents to develop, apart from the volunteer labor to assemble and pack for shipment. The project’s goal was to package at least 75,000 and that goal was surpassed by more than 25,000 meals.

“This is a fantastic example for the whole community and surrounding cities. The families that are here are really learning a great lesson from the church,” observed Ross Chun, Aliso Viejo City Councilman.

It took the volunteers under six hours to package all of the meals. Every time they reached 1,000 meals a gong was hit and the crowd cheered. The event provided everyone a chance to serve as volunteers ranged in age from two to 92. 

“There is such a great feeling here today. As you look around, there is a part for everyone in this process of building these meals. We are grateful for all who have joined us today,” Robert Davis, Laguna Niguel Stake President.

 “The best thing about this JustServe project is seeing a community come together to make a difference and be excited about it,” Jenna Harline, event organizer.