I am so excited to get this next chapter of my life and ministry underway at Mission Viejo. Last weekend, as I was announced as the Lead Pastor for the MV community, I was overwhelmed at the reception my family and I received. The church passionately and enthusiastically embodied what it means to be a family. While we ate our fill of macaroni and cheese, played together on the patio, and enjoyed Dr. Pepper, it felt like home. I felt like I was among aunts, uncles, cousins, brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews all playing in our dad’s backyard for an impromptu reunion. What a great statement that kind of family-life makes, not only to me, but to our community:

We’d love to have you here.
You belong.
This is home.

Now, as I pack up my office at the Irvine campus, I can’t help but smile, thinking about how much fun I had this past weekend. I’m looking forward to a great next season of serving alongside my new family at Mariners Church, Mission Viejo.

Jeff