Tell us a little bit about who you are!
Hi Reality LA, I’m Pastor Jose Hernandez. Who am I? A kid from the hood, saved by grace, trying to make a lasting difference in the lives of other kids from the hood. Hope Central Watts is a neighborhood church where “hope” is, not just a concept, but a living reality where the love of Jesus transforms lives, empowers our community, and shines as a beacon of light in the heart of Watts.
How do you pursue God’s renewal of our city?
The hopelessness that young people are experiencing in Watts makes them feel like their life has no value, which then results in the taking of a life becoming a normal thing. This means young people are constantly surrounded by violence and death. Which creates constant trauma, so they try to find escape in negative and destructive behaviors that continue a cycle of hopelessness. Our mission is to guide future generations of Watts along a holistic path to a life of faith with hope for a way through, and our vision is to see Watts become a center of life and hope in South LA.
How can we support you and engage with your mission?
Helping us put on Princess and the Police Officer every year, which is one of many ways we’re reaching and furthering God’s kingdom on a regular basis. Beyond that, we’d love to connect through such activities as our Easter Outreach in the Park, vacation bible school, Behind-the-Rooftop youth camp, In-n-outreach, and back-to-school resource events.
How do you hope this partnership will shape our church?
We want to demonstrate church is so much more than just Sunday. We hold a weekly after school program (3-6PM Wednesdays), we have youth groups (2-4PM Fridays), and we host short-term backyard mission trips.
How can we pray for you?
Pray for wisdom, perseverance, and that God will send laborers into gis harvest in Watts. We’re in need of a Youth Director, tutors, and help on Sundays with worship and youth.
How can we contact you?
For any questions or further engagement, please reach out to jhernandez@hopecentralwatts.com.
