Sikh Center of Orange County - Santa Ana, CA

The Sikh Center of Orange County (SCOC), located at 2514 W Warner Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92704, serves as a vital community and spiritual hub in Southern California, promoting the Sikh principles of equality, selfless service (Seva), and truthful living. Established in 1990, it has grown to serve hundreds of families and welcomes everyone regardless of their background or faith.

 Key features

Atmosphere and Accessibility: Visitors often describe the SCOC as a beautiful, peaceful, and welcoming "hidden gem". The center features stunning architecture and a serene environment conducive to meditation and spiritual connection.

Open to All: The center maintains an open-door policy, welcoming all individuals. Visitors are generally expected to remove their shoes and cover their heads before entering the prayer hall.

Accessibility: The facility is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking lot, and restrooms.

Core Services and Programs: The SCOC offers diverse religious, cultural, and social services that are primarily run by dedicated volunteers.

Religious Services: Daily morning and evening prayers (Nitnem and Sodar Rehras Sahib) are held, with expanded Kirtan (devotional singing) and Katha (spiritual discourse) programs on Fridays and Sundays.

Langar (Free Community Kitchen): In accordance with Sikh tradition, free vegetarian meals are served daily in the langar hall to all visitors, symbolizing equality and community. A specific meeting and lunch for senior citizens are held every Wednesday.

Education: The Guru Nanak Children’s Academy (GNCA) provides Sunday school classes on the Punjabi language, Sikh history, and music (Kirtan and Tabla) to preserve culture for future generations.

Community Outreach: The center actively engages in community support and interfaith dialogue, organizing food drives for wildfire victims and collaborating on health clinics. The SCOC Food Pantry, an expansion of the langar concept, serves thousands of families in need of groceries every Saturday.