Inner Light Ministries

"It is rare for me to make it down to Soquel on a Sunday morning, but when I do, I never want to miss a service at ILM. You can form an opinion for yourself by visiting their website and checking out one of their recorded Sunday services. I would describe it as an independent, ecumenical, New Thought church with a gospel flair. The church leadership is mostly black, while the congregation is mostly white. They accept everyone, of course, and there are lots of LGBT people in the congregation. But it doesn't seem to have much of a multicultural appeal. NOTE: They are planning to move to a new place by January 2020. Beware if the address of this entry is still 5630 Soquel Road after that date."

"Great place for praising the most high! I just moved here from another state and had been going to a church for many years there and I am happy to have found this place. Open faith, speaks of love, gratitude, kindness, and sharing."

"I was hesitant to go back to a church after previous bad experiences at different churches. When I started going to Inner Light, I realized that I wasn't being preached to as much as I was given tools for living a harmonious and meaningful life. Reverend Deborah Johnson taught me life skills that I was waiting for my whole life. The people who attend are also so genuine and caring. Anyone can benefit from their philosophies."

"Reverend Deborah is brilliant! A Shining Super Star in the Spiritual communities of Santa Cruz and Los Angeles. Our committee to bring to the Central Coast First Lady Michelle Obama some day soon is integral to the approachable relationship Rev D maintains with her followers. Rev D will be giving the Invocation when Michelle Obama comes to our Community! Now, with the advent of live music Concerts in the Sanctuary - Inner Light Center continues to forge creative and community streams of income. And it's Fabulous! This past weekend, I was on the Staff serving our patrons for Iris Dement's wonderful concert. And IRIS said, "This is a great ROOM! The sound is wonderful! There should be more concerts like this one, HERE." I Love It! Music & Spirituality & Community! M Sophia Santiago, Santa Cruz."

"An independent church in the New Thought tradition, very welcoming, great music, friendly people. Their mission statement says they provide "tools for living that encourage the practical application of Universal Spiritual Principles to all of life’s circumstances. Our aim is healing through the energy of love..." and they "honor all paths that lead to truth." They give a lot back to the community - it's people who really walk their talk. And it's not at all cult-y, none of that "join us, join us" feeling. In fact, they don't even offer memberships. If you're looking for a community that has a message that is both inclusive and passionate, that stands on a strong spiritual foundation, this one is worth checking out."