We're new to the area and really enjoyed ourselves--we'll definitely be back. We used to attend a church on the other side of Irvine while living in Huntington Beach. About seven months ago, we bought a home in Brea and have visited a few churches nearby, but none of them felt like the right fit for us. I didn't feel it was fair to leave negative reviews--everyone connects to God and the Bible in their own way. This church was recommended to us by our super sweet dog sitter. About a week ago, I stopped by when I noticed Lion & Lamb had opened (10/10 on the coffee, by the way), and realized it was the same church she had mentioned. I told my husband we should check it out. Right away, we were welcomed by Kellen (I may have his name slightly wrong), who was so kind and walked us over to the kindergarten Sunday school, where another very nice woman helped us from there. We really enjoyed the woman pastor--she was funny, relatable, and we followed the entire message without even checking our phones once. We're not big on music, so we came in around 9:40 and caught the tail end of the singing. Overall, the group felt incredibly welcoming. We'll definitely be back, and hopefully after a few more Sundays, we can call this our church. Side note--our son loved Sunday school so much that when I asked if he wanted to go back next week, he said, "Sure, I'll make more friends." read more

CHANGE is coming. Senior Pastor, McWatters, resigned (actually, most likely urged to leave by the elder board). The letter from the elders read aloud to the congregation implied this while McWatters' letter was more vague. There is CHANGE coming; it will take awhile but replacing the senior leadership is HUGE. Those that have left neg comments and those that have read the neg comments might want to give this place another chance. There is new energy and hope at the church. Let's see how this church changes over the coming months and years. read more

I recently came across the Yelp page for the church, and I was honestly shocked by what I saw. The name has changed, and the sanctuary looks completely different it's just not the same place anymore. My parents were part of the group that helped build this church. I can still remember sitting in the sanctuary and looking up to an open sky because the roof was not completed yet.. It's heartbreaking to see how much has changed, seemingly in an effort to keep up with trends or popularity. This church played such a meaningful role in my and my brother's childhood. We grew up there, and the memories are something I will always cherish deeply. To this day, I still listen to Pastor Swindoll podcast and his past sermons from his time in Frisco before he retired. His teaching continues to bless me. It's just incredibly sad to see that the heart and spirit of the church we knew seems to have faded. read more

I used to go to this church as a child over 30 years ago. Today I walked the campus for the first time as an adult. My children are home schooled and I was there for their kindergarten graduation. Much took my surprise as I was driving to the graduation ceremony, it would lead me back to this church. My wife never told me the ceremony would be at a church and she had no idea my connection to this place. I am in my mid 40s now and I have not been back since I was about 10 years old As I was waiting in line to the common area building, I couldn't help the urge to try and enter into the main sanctuary. I proceeded to the main doors and because it was a Thursday morning of course they were locked . As I was looking through the glass doors I saw a man about the same age as me make eye contact. I proceeded to walk back towards the graduation ceremony building. I looked back at him again and I believe at that time he sensed that there was more of a reason I was trying to gain access other than looking for a restroom. Much to my surprise, he walked to the door and unlocked it I explained to him that I used to go to this church as a child and that I have not been here in a long time and would like to enter into the sanctuary and reminisce. Without question, the door was open and I walked in. We spent a few minutes talking, he explained to me that he has been a church member for over 25 years. He was very welcoming, but what he could not have known was that my mother died about a year ago, and I was trying to connect with her. A simple sign of compassion and understanding, talking with random people, can lead to great things. Although I don't know anything more than my experience on this day. I have to give a five stars to the man and I believe the spirit and welcoming of the church who gave me a minute that made my day. thank you read more

After 6-months on the waitlist for EvFree Preschool and Infant Program, we were contacted about a spot for our 6-month-old, only to be told later that the call was a mistake--they had intended to contact another family. Out of obligation, it seemed, they still offered us the spot. After three weeks, we were informed that "it isn't working" and were told that if our infant could learn to be consoled by the team within two days notice, she could stay. We withdrew her immediately. Throughout the experience, it felt as though we weren't wanted or accepted, and that our child wasn't seen in a positive light. I genuinely wanted to have a good experience here, so this was both surprising and disappointing. Any place that puts the responsibility back on an infant to adjust quickly, in my view, lacks accountability. read more

I really enjoy the message of this church. I go to a group and the members are awesome they make me fell welcomed. There is no pressure, unlike other churches read more

I was prone to write a review to balance out the negative ones because it was an awesome experience. We're new to the area, I came from a church in Monrovia called Fellowship. My old church was such a unique experience in that it was open and empathetic to all races and political parties. We have been to countless of churches that heavily align with a singular political party (mostly republican) that has demonstrated a close mindedness. This church was empathetic to all sides- the way it should be. I was speechless because it was a rarity to see a church not pick a side but stay true to Christianity- the political party of the lamb. I learned so much in the few sermons I've been to. It wasn't your typical topical sermon style that sounds like a Christian Ted Talk. The sermon was a line by line study of the scriptures and spoke about a topic I hadn't heard of before (I've gone to over 20 churches in so cal, went to bible college and have been a christian for over a decade). I got to learn more about the culture and lessons from Joseph. I was gently called out for my own sin in a way I didn't feel preached to, but convictively loved on. So far so good! Only concern I have, is that it is HUGE. Next step is to get involved. Definitely a good experience thus far. read more

I'm a pastor at a local church but wanted to give my experience of the staff at Fullerton Free I'm thankful for the staff that have opened their church to our staff and sports ministry. Pastor Darin, Mitch, Heather and the other pastors have opened their gym to our church and hosted our staff meeting for years. It's been tough navigating post-Covid church and trying to bridge the many divisions our nations faces but Darin has continued to call the church back to His Word and unity in Jesus. If I was looking for a church, I would def drop into their Sunday and check them out. read more

I go to this church and i am very connected. I think that every review that is one star is a lie. This church is amazing. I volunteer every Sunday and I love the children and their parents. read more

Unfortunately this church is no longer an actual Christian church and is super lib. That's why they changed the name and took evangelical out of it. They cater to the trends of the world. They fired leaders and re-hired. Everyone is welcome at church, it's not about welcoming people, it's about what they preach. Many people who caught on, left. Just being real about what it is now, so don't get confused. The Bible will tell you the truth, but these false leaders won't. read more

Not only is the music LOUD, the senior pastor has allowed women to preach and preside over communion! The staff has totally been releived of their positions.The leadership pays no attention to the congregation! wish I could give a minus number. read more

Wowzers! What a coffee place! On top of the great church of course! They have free coffee from 12am to 5am everyday!! The customer service is like no other they even give you free pets! There is also one young lady named amy who works in the highschool ministry... You didn't hear it from me but she's super duper fun! The wifi here is also something to hoot about! It is faster than lightning mcqueen! Anyway what a great church!!! read more

EVFree Preschool review here. This school is wonderful. The teachers and administration are fantastic. I'm fully confident my child is well taken care of here. The facilities are top notch and the Brightwheel app keeps me updated throughout the day with updates and photos. Highest recommendation. read more

This church is by far the most spiritually beneficial church I've been to. I came here with my girlfriend about a year ago trying to find a church to help us grow spiritually and to remind us to always put God in the center of our relationship. From our first time here we felt very welcomed and comfortable, though it's a huge church it has a very small homey church atmosphere. The pastor Mike Erre is extremely knowledgable!!! He slides in a little humor in every sermon which keeps even the younger audience alert and attentive. Mike goes so much in depth in each and every verse and he explains the history behind the passage. When listening to his sermons I have to take notes because there is so much fascinating information that I didn't know before. Austin from Austin is also a great pastor, he has been preaching a lot more recently and has been doing a phenomenal job. God is most definitely working through this church and I feel the Holy Spirit each and every time I walk in the church and worship. The worship band is incredibe!! I would say they are similar to Hillsong United and I can't help it but stand up and praise every time the praising starts. Overtime I brought both my sisters to this church, my brother, my best friend Harvey, many of my cousins and even more friends. They have a multitude of different groups and classes to take for support, fellowship, premarital, missionary, etc. My beautiful girlfriend and I took the seriously dating class here and it was amazing. It helped us put each other in the others shoes and realize that in a relationship we can't be selfish but selfless. We put God in the center and then the other before ourself. Great class with experienced instructors and my girlfriend and I have never been closer to God and each other. I still have not met Mike or Austin but I hope to meet them soon, like I said it is a huge church, they even have a Starbucks that they call "The Well." I look forward to asking Mike some questions that I have been confronted with by some of my atheist and agnostic co-workers. To sum things up; great God lead church, passionate and knowledgable pastors, phenomenal worship band, amazing events and courses, welcoming staff and members. I recommend this church to everyone whether your just curious about these so called Christians and what they believe or even if you've been a lifetime follower of Christ with a PHD in Theology. This church is not judging and they welcome everyone and anyone regardless of your views, beliefs or sinful nature. 5 Stars!!! read more

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I love the special events that they put on here! especially the free Christmas event. minus the cold weather, the kid loves it! totally willing to pitch in the extra dollar or two to ride the train or the horses and the expensive snacks. I know it must cost them a fortune to put on this production. beware of the long lines though! the horse ride had us waiting in line for a good 40 minutes. not sure if it was worth it or not. read more

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I would give it 0 star if possible. The church's leadership has a one track mind and does not listen to any feedback from much of the congregation. Music is so loud and so heavy with base that they have to pass out ear plugs. Preaching is below average as the lead pastor talks like a teenager. read more

I am very sad about the direction this church has been going lately. It has been around for so many years and has always been such a wonderful place to go but the preacher now has his own ideas and doesn't seem to want to listen to anyone else and is losing so many people that it makes me sad and mad at the same time read more

This review is for the EvFree Preschool. I strongly warn parents about the teachers and the way they treat kids when the parents aren't around. Our child was traumatized by the way they purposefully locked him out of the classroom and he cried that entire day. Thankfully my wife was on her way there to pick him up and decided to stop by early hoping to catch a candid photo op. The teacher whose fault it was didn't own up to it and instead lectured my wife on what she needs to do to get my kid to "grow up." She's very condescending and haughty, so sad she is there and traumatizing kids. There are so many good Christian preschools in the area but this is not one of them. Beware. read more

I used to attend this church. In Nov '2011, one of it's members, whom I have never met nor spoke with, was spreading gossip about me. In accordance with Matthew 18:15-17. I first contacted this person's husband - nothing, no response. I then contacted this church's head pastor and brought it to his attention. He made excuses for her behavior, never citing one of the (many) scriptures on how to handle this type of conduct. In concluding this discussion, I asked for a response from this church with respect to how this situation was handled. I never heard anything back from this church. This is one of the several instances I have encountered indicating the pastoral staff's lack of commitment to the teachings of The Bible. Oct 19, 2013 UPDATE: Several months ago this Church added a response to this review, of which I had to review and approve(to which I did). The response said the church had a new head pastor now. This response affirms this church's avoidance of the issue - still no indication from this church of handling a church gossip. read more

Darian is one of the best preachers I have ever heard. He has a great love of the Word of God, the people of God, and people in general. The church is very friendly, warm and tries to glorify God in all it does. If you want to be fed for spiritually, come and check it out for yourself. read more

Every Sunday that I come I fall further in love with what I consider now my second home.

Just went back for another visit. This time we had service in the main sanctuary. Much different experience than the Commons. We must go where God leads us wherever that may be. We should be responsible, plan accordingly and work diligently towards the goals of our lives. However, we must also realize and ultimately know that God is the master of our lives. We are merely called to obey. Great Thanksgiving Sunday service. Communion had me break down in tears. Felt the spirit move. Thank you Lord for your mercy. Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice. Thank you for loving a sinful wretch like me. read more

This church has amazing resources for Christians. They have a wonderful library with books and dvd's that have been such a blessing to me.!!!! The church also has groups and programs that I have recommended to friends, for example "third option". Thank you to the Pastor and administration for your wonderful contribution to the community by providing these resources to Christians at this time in history when libraries and book stores are closing in America. We need Christian books accessible to all. read more

I have been attending EV Free for about a year now. There are several reasons why I love this church. First, Mike Erre is not a "warm and fuzzy" speaker, but he will smack you upside the head with conviction and strong Biblical references. He is a great speaker who challenges you to take action and really examine the life you are living. If it is important for you to have a nurturing, gentle, and warmly enthusiastic type of speaker, and this is a valid concern, I recommend looking around for other churches. I enjoy listening to Mike Erre, but there are a variety of teaching styles. Mike is bald and wears black suit shirts. He is the first to poke fun at himself for being a man of "substance." He really shares his passion for Christ and communicates the Gospel in a way that is almost radical. After his sermons, I am constantly humbled. The church also does a really great job of bringing a variety of speakers. I've had the opportunity to listen to a North Korean defector share her story, Albert Tate from a church in Monrovia, Ryan Kwon from a church in the Bay, and so on. There's always something different, some new perspective I hadn't considered biblically, and I am continuing to learn and grow. When I first came to the church, I was a baby Christian, yearning to grow but not sure how. I stopped by the Prayer Room (available after each service). I was able to share my genuine concerns with an older woman who took the time to listen to me, pray with me, and help me construct a prayer schedule. I am grateful and was blessed. In addition, the Women's Ministry started a intergenerational group called "Bite Size". There's free Zumba on Thursday evenings. The church recently opened a library and cafe. It's a great, quiet place to read and do work in the mornings (open from 7:30 to 2 pm with free wi-fi). Grab a muffin or Starbucks coffee.. all proceeds benefit the church. You can browse the hundreds of Christian books and DVD's. P.S. The church recently donated $10,000 to Fullerton High School, so that we can influence and bless the local community around us. read more

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my new church. We've been attending for about 2 years. We left our prior church of 12 years because there was no prominent ministry to specifically help people in desperate need. EV Free worships outside the church by reaching out doing projects for people in need, helps the homeless, not to mention all the ministries for its' own attenders. the Holy Spirit teaches through our pastor in such a profound way that's easy to understand. read more

I'm new to the Fullerton area and was looking for a church that was college-student friendly. This church is one of the best I've ever been to. Not only are their pastors and "greeters" friendly, but they aren't over-bearing or creepy. It was almost like going to hang out with a bunch of friends you haven't seen in a while. People were easy to talk to, non-judgmental and gave you insight without acting like they had all the answers. Bottom Line: I have found my spiritual home. read more

Was late to service, one of their ushers was very unwelcoming and acted like he was giving us permission to enter service "service started 30 minutes ago but ill seat you just this time." Church is supposed to be a place where people feel welcome, accepted, and loved - not reprimanded for being late. Focus on what matters. Will be going to a different church next time. read more

I take my daughter to daycare here. The preschool office is rude and EXTREMELY unorganized. They've been unreasonable, incompetent, and dictating the parents schedule looking for any reason to squeeze pennies out of you. I have been so turned off by the daycare, I don't even want to try this place as a church. The actual childcare is okay... Two or three really nice caregivers. But I've picked my daughter up a few times and she was still in a dirty diaper. I would take my daughter elsewhere but I have a friend that helps with picking her up since her son goes here too. I don't recommend this as a preschool at all. read more

Amazing--a really big church with a small church feel. Welcoming, great teaching, life groups for all ages. They have everything from support groups to service days for the community, dynamic youth groups and of course Bible studies and a variety of worship services. read more

This Church is awesome. I Love the style of teaching. The pastor (Mike) communicates the bible in a way that connects to real life. The music is also very good. We found this church because it has a 5pm worship time. Wanting to become a member soon. read more

Cannot say that I am usually found at a church holiday event but I was invited and was just impressed by how little they tried to recruit. It was about sharing some fun with the community and the music and chorus were the main attraction, well for this kid. For the others it was the sledding, rock climbing, train rides, and foodie trucks. read more

This is a great church. There are 4 services in the morning to choose from differing mostly from traditional worship to contemporary worship with a rock-style band. The church is both community and world focused. read more

Saw Robyns play. The kids were great.

I attended EviFree as a kid at this location and the previous location. I love the service and the music. I get a good vibe from the people, but it is just too overwhelming. This place is a small city on Sundays. They should really think about opening a new location. read more

I went there when I started as a teen(ager) to adult. Its prime time was when I was a teen(ager) and Pastor Chuck Swindoll was there. Parking (before its garage was built) and crowd were crazy, but worth it. After he left to Texas, it wasn't the same. :( read more

I've been going here since Jan. 2, 1990, tho I left for two years to attend somewhere else, I came back; then a few years later I was invited to go to a local Baptist Church and found myself there for two years, but found myself back at E.V. Free. Something good about going somewhere else for awhile....I got to get to know some other people! To this day when I see them, we are still friendly and we pray for one another when the need or leading arises. My husband and I went to the Good Friday service last weekend. I had the most amazing experience. We went up to nail our nail in the cross that we all were given on Palm Sunday. On my way up, there was the opportunity of taking communion, so I took a small piece of cracker and one of the juices and went back in line to go up to the cross. As I held the cracker piece in my right hand I heard a voice say to me: "This is my body which was broken for you", then I did eat. Then I took the little juice cup in my right hand and I heard the same voice say to me: "This is the blood I shed for you, drink this in rememberance of me." I found myself walking up on stage around to the head of the cross while others were nailing their nail at the foot of the cross or a little further up, I went where on one else was going. As I stood there an incredible peace came over me and I had no memory of ANY sin I committed in that brief alone time. I remembered the scripture that said "It is finished!" I then reluctantly but greatful for what Jesus did for us on a cross thousand of years ago, nailed my nail above where I imagined his hand could have been. When I went back to my seat, I began to sing in song facing the chior. We were only 5 pews back sitting in the isle seats, so I was pretty close to the front. At one point there was a break in one of the songs. At that very moment I heard a voice say "Stand." And I wondered. Again I heard "Stand up now." So I did. There was a few other people standing dotted around me, two hear, one there, but I didn't question, I just obeyed. As I stood there, I felt change happening inside me and I felt like I did when I was up at the cross. Very peaceful and in the presence of God. My husband told me later at home I was glowing and he saw me stand up but didn't know why I did. He saw me walk up to the other side of the cross and said the holy spirit told him to look at me and watch. This is what happened on my husbands side of things while God was busy doing a work in me. I realized later that Jesus was on the "Other side of the cross" now and it WAS finished! He had me go on the other side of the cross to nail my nail to show me this! He's so good and loving! I still don't know why He had me stand. My husband thought I stood up to show reverance for Him, this was his thought before I told him that God asked me to stand. My thoughts about it was that He had me stand to see if I would obey Him no matter how many people were around and how little number of people were standing if any at all would I still obey Him. The other thing I thought was if I'd stand up for Jesus period! In any case, all I would do with His help and guidance. Resurrection Sunday came two days later and we found ourselves sitting in the very seat we sat on Friday! Before everything started I began talking to a sweet elderly couple next to me. They had been in the chior for 35 years and could no longer stand or hold a tune for very long, but charrished the memories. I shared with them that I'd like to be in the chior and have wanted to for years. I had many people over the years tell me I should and even went to try out once, but it ended up we all just talked and the director giving us instruction and introduction to chior life. It was a great time, but I never went back. I think the whole thing about having to be there by 8:30am on Sundays was the killer; beside not being able to read music, but he reassured us we could memorize the music easily. After singing a few songs Sunday, The lady I was talking to leaned over and said to me "You really should be in the chior." Well that was the kicker! I went home and desided that's what I'm going to do. I'm trusting God to wake me up on Sundays to be there by 8:30am and get me there on Wed. nights for practices! This is a church of transition at the time of this writing. I continue to pray for the senior pastor God would have for this huge church. May the Lord hear this prayer! Amen. read more

This is a straightforward evangelical mega-church with great music and good sermons. However, my personal experience there was difficult. I attended maybe 10 times always by myself and never really met anyone, although I tried to be friendly. One Sunday, I left my Bible at home and asked the couple next to me if I could share theirs. They nodded, and when the Bible reading began, I read over their shoulder. At this point, they scooted about 5 feet away from me. I know it is silly, but it was hard enough being there on my own, and for some reason, this pushed me over the edge. I began to cry and couldn't stop. I excused myself and headed for the lobby. I couldn't leave, because my children were in Sunday school (which they loved). I sat in the lobby for 20 minutes and couldn't stop crying. I must have been passed by at least 20 people associated with the church (mostly ushers and other helpers, and a few members going back and forth for one reason or another) and not one person came by to ask if I was okay or even just offer me a tissue. I was frankly shocked. I have only cried in public a very few times, but every other time I have had people see if there was anything they could do in help. Yet, in a place full of supposed Christians, not one person came by and made any connection at all. I tried to continue to go after that but had a hard time feeling comfortable. I finally met with the senior pastor to share my experience, because I really wanted to get over it. He gave a slight apology, but didn't seem particularly bothered by what had happened to me. Basically, I felt he thought I should just get over it. Anyway, I just wanted to share my experience with this church. read more

Pastor Darin recommended in his sermon that those attending EVFree should look at the Yelp reviews. He said that some of the reviews are brutal, and we need to take a good look at them as a church. He said that each and everyone of us needs to look at how we steward our gifts in the service of others. We are called as Christians to live a life of service and sacrifice. Whoever is going to serve needs to serve with the strength of our Lord. The way this church has served our family is through the Disability Ministry. Connie HUTCHINSON has selflessly served the church through her ministry to those with special needs and their families. She now has an associate that serves with her. The Disability Ministry has supported many children and families at EV Free through the years. If you have a child or adult with a disability, this is an inclusive church. Our son with special needs had a difficult time getting mainstreamed into the high school Ministry. The high school leader was always hanging out with our son, he was never accepted by a core group of friends. This was disappointing to us, although I always keep in mind that people will fail us, but the Lord will not. We all would benefit by asking ourselves, how we can be of service. read more

Wonderful place to worship and make friends. My husband's parents attended the church for over 45 years before they passed away in the last few years. My husband and I, along with our children, have been attending the church for many years. The church's teaching is very true to the Bible. The church is not charismatic; it does not offer prosperity teaching (e.g. "life will be perfect if you let God run it") or false promises about what religion can do. No preaching of politics either, just Biblical teaching and life application of faith in love. There are many groups and programs for all generations, age groups, marital situations (single, engaged, married, divorced, re-married, etc.), families (young, old, blend, cross cultural, etc.) and those in different life stages and issues. On weekdays, the church operates a preschool that welcomes kids from all faiths and backgrounds. I find this church very friendly to all people, from visitors who are curious and just checking things out, to seasoned believers who enjoy mentoring and/or helping others. I am impressed by the church's focus to help those in the surrounding local communities, as well as people, refugees, and the oppressed overseas. Opportunities to lend a helping hand are plenty, and helps are always needed. I think the best way to plug in and make friends is join a smaller group (e.g. Sunday school, life group, Rooted group, study group, etc.) because the church congregation is fairly big in number. The church does not get as much media coverage as Saddleback or other big churches, which makes this church a hidden gem in Orange County area. read more

This used to be a truly multi-generational Church. The present preferred, "target" audience is young (under 30) and/or Contemporary Style worshipper. Currently there is One Worship Style only in the main sanctuary. Four Total Worship Services are Contemporary, with only one Blended Service in the side Commons Room. One of the best organs in the state lies fallow -- covered up so as not to be seen or heard. Treatment of the Traditional Worshiper, especially the elderly and long time (decades) saints there has caused many, MANY to leave without any feedback...only broken hearts, sorrow and bewilderment. But God is faithful, and will find a place for these precious ones to connect to Him somewhere else...where both young and old, Contemporary and Traditional have an equal place of value. read more