Kathy Gilbert, Chaplain of CCCM and Prayer Coordinator for Love Newport Beach

A full-blown Woodstock Hippy! Have you heard of the movie, Jesus Revolution? Well, that’s Kathy Gilbert’s actual story. She was a part of that movement and that’s when she came to know Jesus.

She grew up in Maryland, graduated High School, and joined the hippies at Woodstock. When it was time to ask the bigger questions, the leaders didn’t have the answer. After many hair-raising experiences, she started her quest and decided to hitchhike through Oregon.  She hopped into the car and drove up to 2 fellows who looked like hippies but weren’t. They invited her to have dinner at their 88-acre ranch in Dexter, Oregon. Come to find out, Kathy met about 200 “hippy” looking people all from Calvary Chapel, Costa Mesa. Then heard the Gospel of Jesus Christ and came to Jesus the following day! She finally found the answer and it was Jesus. She surrendered her life to Jesus and moved into the commune, featured in the movie, Jesus Revolution. This is where she met her husband, married, moved to Southern California, and became staff at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa.

Her message as an ambassador of Jesus is, “It is my heart’s desire, to represent Him wherever I go, saying He sees you, He knows you, He loves you, He’s for you, He’s coming after you and He will never give up on you.” She calls this message her privilege and delight to share with everyone.

The first time I saw Kathy was at a neighboring initiative meeting. She automatically stood out to me. She’s hard to miss since she’s tall with beautiful eyes and a joyful big smile! She lights up the room and is a happy servant of God, who loves the Lord. I asked her, ‘What’s the hardest thing about being a Christian?” and her answer was, “Nothing. I love Jesus. I want the world to know Him.” She enjoys serving the community and volunteering for projects around Costa Mesa and Newport Beach. She trained as a Chaplain and attended a course called C.E.R.T., which stands for Community Emergency Response Team with the Newport Beach Fire Department. She’s very proactive in reaching her community and pouring into the lives of our local community.

She says, “It may be surprising for people because Newport Beach is a rich community, but the top needs are homelessness and loneliness.” One that touches her heart is reaching out and praying for the homeless so she can connect with them.

She encourages you to stay filled with the Holy Spirit and connect with the people around you with empathy and care. Don’t fall back into your comfort zone. Do your daily devotions and listen to your teachers. Always pray and keep serving. Keep your relationship with Jesus alive. “Jesus is the answer. He is the one that holds us all together!” She adds, “Listen to this radio station.” Referring to KBRITE Radio. “Seek the Lord and you will find him. Pray those specific prayers. You will be surprised at the miracles that God will do for you.” Amen, Kathy Gilbert! Jesus loves you and so do we. Thanks for being in the studio with us.

For information on Prayer Meetings and Kathy Gilbert, go to lovenewportbeach.com or follow her on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

Listen to the full interview on September 15, 2024.