Always Positive & Uplifting message. I have attended many different churches to find one that teaches the Word with positivity and hopeful direction in life. Life can be difficult at times and the sermons always help lighten the load. Thank God for the positive and hopeful sermons! read more

Been a little disappointed lately... so taking one star off. Church is quick to celebrate that attack on Iran, but total silence on the president's depiction of him as Jesus, or his Easter "message"... or any of his despicable actions... Dispensationalism? For sure (a topic I never gave much thought to until recently...) Christian Zionism? Most certainly Christian Nationalism? Many attendees would fall in that category I'd think. Franklin Graham has certainly turned into one, and they are a big fan of his over here... read more

I love this ministry! It is an incredible house of community, leadership, and worship. read more

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Idk where their offerings are going but I do know from Google the church gets millions so why doesn't the church pressure wash the carpet change the sanctuary is very old fashion. I dont mind tithing but I feel tithes are going in deep pockets of senior pastors as jesus said in later days. Jesus is watching you. Use the money for the right purpose. read more

Love this Bible based church I am new to the San Diego area. Came from the Costa Mesa Calvary church area. Saddleback Church. I feel right at home read more

The Maranatha Chapel of today is not the Maranatha Chapel it has been for most of its nearly 40 years. Since the passing of its founding pastor things have taken a turn, and not for the better. If you are looking for the old Maranatha Chapel, you will not find it. If you are looking for a Calvary Chapel, you will not find it. If you are looking for a seeker friendly, mildly Pentecostal church, this just might be the place. https://prayformaranatha.blog/ read more

My heavenly father's house, this is the place I have enjoyed. A place for me to worship, socializing with my sister's and brother's in Christ. read more

Truly gifted prophetic teaching! A place where you Are in one heart beat with Jesus Christ and where the Holy Spirit has freedom to work according to Gods will!!! read more

Love the music! It feels like rapture into heaven. I love getting bathed in heavenly showers from angels of God. I want to be happy here some more. read more

Initially, I didn't think much of Maranatha other than it being a squeaky clean church that was slightly boring. At the point in which I wrote my first review here, I had just started regularly attending church after years of not going. It wasn't until a few years later where my appreciation set in. I have been attending both The Rock and Maranatha. Sometimes I would go to both on a Sunday. Or The Rock on Sunday and Maranatha on Wednesday evening. What I began to see was that Pastor Miles spoke more as a motivational speaker and Pastor Ray as a true, God loving individual. I realized I was being spiritually fed at Maranatha and not so much at The Rock. I also attended spiritual counseling at Maranatha and went to bible study on Friday nights. The more I opened myself up to those in the church, who worked and who fellowshipped there, the more I realized how beautiful this place is and how authentic Christians can actually be found. I decided to get baptized on June 20th through Maranatha Chapel at La Jolla Shores. I highly recommend you check this place out if you're like me, seeking an honest to God sincere place of service and worship. read more

This is an absolutely beautiful church. I have visited this church 3 times (twice for Sunday night service) because if I am in the area, I would rather come here than drive all the way down to Point Loma for service at my home church. I really love the people here and the staff is very welcoming and open. For a large church, I believe that church members still feel a personal connection with the community. I highly recommend you stop by because the sermons are really great and I love the pastors' styles of preaching! read more

Wonderful church! Have heard nothing but good things about it. My daughter attends weekly and took me along this past weekend. What a beautiful sanctuary and I will never forget how Chelsea's Light held a Chelsea's Law forum meeting here in March 2010. From the website: "Maranatha Chapel is a non-denominational Christian church affiliated with Calvary Chapel. We welcome all who visit--believers, non-believers, those who are secure in their faith, and those who struggle with doubt. Church is more than a building with friendly people with lots of activities. It is a place where people come to meet God and find answers to life's questions." Fundamentally, the Bible is held up strongly as God's Word, and Pastor Ray serves the Gospel straight up. North County is very lucky to have this great church among them. read more

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I started going to the Wednesday service earlier this year and I am still going. It is called Revive and is usually led by Pastor Shawn Stone. He's younger and has a great way of connecting with the congregation. His messages are relevant for any age range which I really appreciate. Each service starts with worship music, including some pretty cool guests. There is then a chance to greet others you are sitting near, partake in the offerings and tithes and then listen to the sermon. I like the fact that there are study notes for each sermon as well. There is a chance to take communion each week if you choose as well. It lasts about 1.5 hours and runs from 7pm-8:30pm. The bookstore/coffeehouse is open too. If you feel like getting your worship on, this is the place! read more

I really love this church. People are so warm and loving. There are over 100 small groups to get involved in. I find the people that serve really care and reach out. The pastors really dive into the word of God and share from their hearts. I would recommend this church to everyone in the community. They also have great online ministry videos and tools. I hope you can come out and join us. read more

Is there a church in Rancho Bernardo or nearby who Opens their arms and loves everyone? An all inclusive church accepting the gay community as well as women who believe in Pro choice. I have to say I thought Maranatha Would reflect this warmth as I have known pastor Ray ever since he was a kid in high school when he started Bible studies out of this house. Ray was one of the most humble kind gentle and loving persons I knew. There was a time when we all parted ways going to college and what not. I had completely forgotten about the El Cajon high school kid I knew Until I recently moved to RB and heard about Maranatha Chapel and Ray Bentley. I couldn't believe the growth of his ministry, but not at all surprised because he is the real deal. I was so saddened to hear of his passing but thought I would try the church anyway- It's been a long while since I've been to church But thought I would try it it in memory and respect for Ray and his family. Unfortunately it felt very cold and lonely. This was a long way From the warmth of the Bentley living room 50 years ago. While I celebrate the growth and expansion of the ministry, and was happy to see so many people, I stood by myself listening to a few different conversations judging others who do not have the same beliefs as they do and condemning those they believe are not in line with them- gays, transgenders, pro-choice believers. I know enough to know people are people no matter where you find them - - I could've overlooked this as I wasn't involved in the conversation and didn't know the context, but out of these many many people who surrounded me, not one person stopped to say hello or welcome. It's just hard when you see people who are supposed to be the light of the world actually putting the light out with their holier than thou "Christian?" words and behaviors - As a well educated global woman and mother, I have never had a problem fitting in social circles of any culture, I felt very alone here. ,maybe this is just the consequence of a Megachurch and so many people? I went home conflicted and a little saddened. In memory of Ray Bentley and his family I will try this again and not close myself off- read more

Home away from home.... love my pastor very anointed.... love my church.... no judgement here

What a well rounded talented team that truly focuses on worshiping the Lord. The teaching is incredible Pastor Ray teaches in a way that is inspiring and sound. Try it, you won't be disappointed. read more

i started going to Maranatha with my fam when i was about 10 or 11 when it was in PQ, and have been going ever since. It is now in RB, close to 4s Ranch in the business park. They have expanded their building and parking because of their attendance. If you are looking for a Christian Church near by, definitely attend at Maranatha. You will be fed spiritually! Pastor Ray comes at a very loving approach and their associate pastors are awesome/personable- shout out to Glen Hirashiki! they have all types of services during the week, check out their website! read more

So just as my last post stated in 2011 we did move close to this church and have begun to serve. As time goes on I am even more grateful for Maranatha Chapel and Pastor Ray. It is hard to find a church with sound biblical teaching. I am a prodigal returned back to faith. By no means will any church be perfect but I can honestly say this is home. In general I am very critical of those in church leadership. A hint of false doctrine or emergent church shenanigans and I am out. On the other end of the spectrum I am also very sensitive to legalism or condemnation in church. It must be through the grace of God that Maranatha Chapel has been able to remain sound and gracious to me with all my baggage :) Teaching is traditional, rich in grace and beautifully pure. read more

I actually attended Maranatha back in the 80's when they first started at Wangenhiem, then to Black Mountain. I however, then started attending the Rock Church because of my past history with Miles McPherson. I believe in both churches. Although we live in North County we still drove to Pt Loma. Recently, we were struggling with busy schedules and backsliding a bit of where to rekindle our relationship at a church. Our neighbor is an Assoc Pastor at Maranatha and my son started going with them on Wed evening service. Soon we followed, if felt good to go back to a smaller church where you know everyone, and one so close to home. I believe this church is a great place to attend on a more family oriented level than the larger congregation of The Rock. They both have great messages. I would recommend Maranatha wholeheartedly to anyone in this area looking for a church. read more

My family & I started attending this church in Nov. 2011. Maranatha is a non-denominational church with focus on the the word of God. This is the kind of church I grew up in so I feel very comfortable. Everyone we've met so far has been gracious and very welcoming. Pastor Ray Bentley is great! He takes the bible and teaches so you can relate it to your life. My kids love coming here! They each go to their own classrooms while my husband & I go to service in the sanctuary. The church has several different service times to help with busy schedules and they offer many group ministries. Although I haven't had a chance to go to any, a few have caught my eye such as a married couple's ministry & woman's group. read more

I've felt a connection immediately! My first evening Women's Bible study a few years ago I was sitting in the front row and I will never forget when Vicki (Pastor's wife) introduced herself to me and asked me all about myself. What a humble and beautiful woman inside and out! And her teachings are in depth. Wholly recommend women's bible study! read more

Fun church. Fun pastor. Stuck to the scriptures, and gave a lot of supporting information on the biblical claims. It's a bit far from my house, but at least I can say "I've been there". Definitely one of the best churches I've been to in San Diego. read more

Pastor Ray is on fire, full of the love of God and power of the Holy Spirit, Pastor Ray has yet to see God use him in the great and mighty ways that he will be used. More is coming, God is about to do it again. Catherine Booth said "Anyone can preach a 5 point sermon, but give me fiery words". He preaches with fire and love!!! Pastor Ray preaches with deep conviction, boldness, and the power of God, I love this man, because he is sold out and in love with Joshua/Jesus. Troy Cline read more

Friendly people! Great services! Beautiful area! Nice coffee shop! Praise the Lord! Such blessings here at Maranatha Chapel. They have many different ministries. They have a Preschool. May God enrich the communities nationwide here at Maranatha Chapel; including all other Calvary Chapels. In Jesus Name. Amen! Ask for the trip to Israel starting April 2015! read more

Maranatha Chapel - Maranatha Chapel - Pastor, Ray Bentley. - Churches Near Me - San Diego, California

To Shannon: "Not one person greeted us." Not surprised. I used to attend that church, starting when it was located in Penasquitos on Blk Mtn Road. My child even went to their school. (Something I regret now but thats another story.) The thing I noticed back then (the 1990's) and remember now, is how "clique-y" the people were. I'm referring specifically to the women; moms & teachers. This was true at the school and in church services. I tried going back to the church several times after they moved to RB. By this time, the numbers of people were so huge, you felt lost. And when I saw a few of the people I knew from a few years back, my smile and nod as a way of acknowledgement was met with no reciprocation at all. But aside from the people I used to know, I noticed that everyone there seemed to be huddled in tight knit groups. No room for newcomers, I guess. This may be common in most huge mega churches? I even stood up at the end of the aisle one time and extended my hand to Ray Bentley as he walked by but he was too focused on getting out the door to stop. No, I'm really not a freak but apparently I become invisible when I set foot in that church. It was at that point I realized I was just in the wrong place. I do have some issues with basic bible teachings (not voice by me at that time) and I was tired of feeling guilty every time I had some wine with dinner or watched a movie with anything other than a G rating. And then there is the issue of gay rights, and other lifestyle choices that I have no problem with but Christian teachings do. I was tired of feeling like I should l mentally condemn everyone who didn't follow what the church taught. So I don't go to church at all anymore. And I'm fine with that. So my exit from the Chirstian world was not only based on coming to terms with things I believed that went against the teachings of the church, it was sealed by the unkind, cliques of women attending this church and Maranatha Christian School. Some of them with husbands in prominent positions. Big, impersonal mega-church with tight-knit groups of people. Felt like high school. No thanks. read more

I first joined Maranatha in 1993, when Pastor Bentley was at Black Mountain Road in Penasquitos. Five star rating back then, when he was still growing his church. I attended during the 90s before I moved out of San Diego.He was exceptional. It was around that time that Pastor Bentley had lost his twin brothers. His sermons conveyed the hurt, his struggle and his devotion to God's word despite the struggle. The depth of his sermons, the bible verses were carefully selected and dissected for God's truth, that you could see he could go straight to the heart. I have since moved back to San Diego and I hate to say this, but his sermons seem relaxed, less effort, less analysis in the scripture. He chooses a chronological order but somehow fail to cut deeper into the bible. Somehow with the massive church, his grandchildren and almost both feet in retirement, I get the sense he is "taking it easier" and produces vanilla take-aways. Granted, he is a nice guy, makes jokes, and comes across as less "preachy", but is that all? Maybe it comes with age, but I keep going back to Maranatha in the hope that one day he will have a spiritual awakening and remember that people seek God more in tragedy: a lost job, a death, a divorce, an emotional struggle of some sort and seek God for healing. Surface analysis in a pretty church, and a devoted congregation while getting older, isn't enough. I don't see the pastor who was striving, reaching, pulling deeper into the scripture and ultimately into the hearts of people. I started going to Dr. David Jeremiah, who is an hour drive away, but leaves me with a deeper enlightenment and closer relationship to God. read more

Pastor Ray has been anointed by the Holy Spirit to teach the true Word of God. He reads straight from the Bible. Maranatha ministries are blessed with people who love Jesus and are called to fulfill His calling. read more

Different churches offer different things for different Christians. This one is large and pretty much a "formula" presentation church. There is one head Pastor, Ray Bentley. I noted some danger flags. There are no Board of Elders or Board of Directors. It's Ray Bentley, and without accountability and transparency. They don't produce an annual financial statement for the members (who donate), only receipts. I don't feel that an independent Christian Church should function without transparent financial accountability to the members. This is not affiliated with Calvary Chapel literally. They just indicate that they are "in fellowship with Calvary Chapel." They have no financial or legal association. But the Pastor grew up in and formerly pastored at a Calvary Chapel. They adhere to the restrictive defined guidelines of the Calvary Chapel denomination. I find it acceptable to be an independent church but there is much emphasis on association with Calvary Chapel but in fact it DOES NOT include accountability to them. I found that there was "marketing formula" and "showmanship" in this large church. Lots of in house and hired media photographing the attendees and worshipers and ministries for "dramatic shots" they can post and publish. Pastor "warms up the crowd" before beginning, sometimes stands on the stage posturing often with his arms out like he's Christ on the Cross during preaching, and engages in other "techniques" of attention garnishing rather than just being a natural but prepared speaker. It is just not my taste in a sermon. Very heavy use of social media which heavily highlights Ray Bentley. The Ray Bentley phone app has over reaching invasion of privacy you don't find in most apps. I deleted it from my cellphone when I saw the amount of personal information they required just to hear a podcast of Bentley. Their web site as well. I don't find that appropriate for a church. Personal view I hold. Also, they charge $5 for a CD copy of the sermon and charge for everything else, too. They have a coffee shop that charges the same as Starbucks. Money, money, money. But many who attend have money, so it works for the church. It seemed to me that they have quite a large intake of donations but I did not see that outflowing into ministries. That is not to say where the money goes or doesn't go, but I had no idea without any financial information given to any board or membership. Lots of apparent competition with other churches for "position" in the large church Christian community. I noted a heavy influence of manipulative attempts to influence rather than pastor the membership.. And there is an obvious element of technique drama in the sermon presentation that seem to me to be "formula." I shy away from that although there's nothing wrong with that if you want it. The messages are OK, but I heard the use of other contemporary Christian's work product being used in sermons without crediting the sources on a number of occasions. So many, in fact, that I felt that the Pastor was taking credit for signature work product of others as if it were his own so frequently that it could only be described as misrepresentation at the least by ascribing it as if it were his own. What matters most is Jesus. The church believes in the Bible and Jesus, so in that regard, they're OK. I just found too much worldly ways of marketing without what I expect for financial and other accountability. Those things matter to me. It's a great church for people who like a large church which is all about the techniques of the modern marketing model but which preaches the Bible and where there is one "guru" who runs the whole enchilada. So much of the efforts are dedicated to promoting the Pastor. It is definitely one that cultivates a following rather than a flock. And Bentley does certainly have a "following." . read more

I had heard Pastor Ray on KWVE during drive time and enjoyed his style and the content of his messages. My wife had gone to Maranatha before we had married and said she'd like to try it again so we went on a Sunday and I have to say, I enjoyed it tremendously! The grounds are very clean, the staff is always friendly, and the child care is top notch. Pastor Ray sticks to the Bible and isn't afraid to say things that will make you think. Maranatha is a wonderful Bible-based church in a nice neighborhood. read more

LOVE LOVE LOVE this church. In my opinion, it is the best church in San Diego. The worship team here is unbelievable. Worship on Wednesdays with Gary Rea is incredible. I feel so fortunate and blessed that God has sent his spirit thru this church and we have one of the last great churches here in San Diego in the end days. Pastor Ray is the greatest speaker and the kindest man you could ever meet. I would definitely recommend that if you are a believer or are looking for a church that you give Maranatha a chance. It has changed my life. read more

Wonderful place to attend church, great pastor and uplifting messages.

Went here to be part of a wedding ceremony and I absolutely love the place. It has a great atmosphere and lots of parking outside and lots of seats inside. Wouldn't mind coming here again for anything! read more

I'm sad to move on from this church because during the past few months I've been attending, I've found the lead pastor Bentley to be a great speaker who preaches from the Bible. I've been blessed by his sermons. The worship team is also great. But my main reason for trying this church out was to find a better church for my two teens. I strongly feel that church should come along side with the parents and "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it" Proverbs 22:6. Like I said we've been going here solid 3 months and my kids say the youth pastor never reached out and said hello to them. Each Sunday there is about 40-50 kids ( a pretty intimate size) and I find it upsetting that a youth pastor chose not to make any efforts to integrate them in to the group let alone say a simple hello. My daughter is 15 and pretty social and makes friends pretty easily. When I ask her if she feels welcoming there, she says " um well not really". My son who is 17 and keeps pretty much to himself says, " the kids don't say anything to me". In reaching someone or spreading the gospel, it always starts with a hello and meeting their needs first by being kind and accepting, I believe. I'm writing this review not to just criticize but perhaps the youth pastor can make some adjustments. A leadership trickles down and sets the tone for the group. Maranatha is a mega church with thousands of people...wonder why there is only about 40-50 kids in the youth group who act like a tight group where an outsider feels just that...an outsider. read more

My family and I have been going to Maranatha for many years, and my sister teaches at their elementary school just down the road. The weekend after the horrible shooting at the local synagogue in Poway, the security team professionally and with great courtesy screened bags and purses, bringing a comfort and peace to the countless congregants. Pastor Ray teaches directly from God's Word and the worship team always does a wonderful job of preparing us for the message. Despite it's large size there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in home fellowships and other smaller group meetings if you're feeling lost in the shuffle. They have a coffee shop, bookstore, and give out donuts (only asking for donations if people feel led) staffed by smiling and warm individuals. They offer multiple Sunday morning services as well as Wednesday and Saturday evening for those who have work and family commitments on Sunday. I consider it home and always feel welcome! read more

No church is perfect, because wherever I go, I'll be there. Other than that, I love all the opportunities to serve & love on, the body Christ. I'm so blessed we have so many churches to choose from in San Diego!!! read more

This is a solid Bible-based church in Rancho Bernardo. Pastor Ray Bentley is a great teacher and all-around good guy. He teaches straight from the Bible and is very knowledgeable and relatable. The worship team is also superb. I've gone here for 15 years and I also attended Maranatha Christian School as a student, so I have a pretty good idea of what this church/school is like. it's a non-denominational church so Christians of every branch will feel comfortable here. There are young and old, rich and poor, families and singles here--I think most everyone would feel welcome. read more

If you're feeling lost in your faith then I'd highly recommend you go to a Sunday sermon, led by Pastor Ray, or a Wednesday night Revive sermon, led by Pastor Shawn. They're both so on fire for the Lord and each and every message is so powerful. I love that Maranatha has so many different ways to be involved and is always offering ways to serve. I love that during communion we are able to go down and ask to be prayed for. Pastor Danny is also amazing and I enjoy his Sunday night sermons and love that he's available if I need prayer. read more

Great church. Ray is current with the times and is open to thr people. Jesus is good.

Love this church! Great children's ministry. I've gone to a few church's in the area that lacked good teaching and truth. After attending Maranatha I felt ready for the week and filled for the rest of the week. Great place for families. read more