My wife and I recently moved to the area and decided to check out Saddleback Church - Brea for the first time. We were pleasantly surprised by the ample parking at the community center, which is always a plus. From the moment we arrived, we were genuinely welcomed by everyone, including their kids, it truly felt like a warm and inviting atmosphere. We even received a very nice, clearly not cheap, first-timer's mug, which was a lovely touch. We also filled out a connection request to learn more, as we're still searching for our home church. The worship was great; the singers and band had fantastic energy, and the slides were awesome. I didn't know any of the songs, but my wife mentioned they were all modern, which explains why they were new to me. While at the connection table, we learned that typically, the message is delivered via screen or recording. However, on our visit, their lead campus pastor was preaching live, and it was a real treat! He was incredibly engaging and delivered a fantastic message. This brings me to the main reason for my 4-star rating: I'm a bit puzzled why their ideology seems to focus around a main pastor delivering messages via screen when they have such a talented campus pastor right there. While I understand some churches might do this if a pastor is away, it seems to be the norm here, almost like a "long-term sub" situation, as another reviewer put it. For me, while community is vital, I also want to feel connected to the pastor delivering the message, not just from a screen. Their whole service is also only about an hour long. It was particularly disheartening to hear the campus pastor say, "I went to school for this and I don't get to do this every week," and that he "won't speak again for a very long, long time." As someone who went to school for graphic design but ends up doing project management all day, that comment resonated deep in my soul. I truly hope he gets more opportunities to speak because he's genuinely great. The message itself, taught from the NIV, wasn't boring, but it felt quite "generic" or basic. While it's good for newer believers or those new to the faith, for someone like me who's been a Christian for a while, it didn't go very deep. I appreciate delving into the lore, the original Greek/Hebrew words, and understanding the historical context behind the authors' choices. I know this might put me in the minority, but it's just not my preferred style of teaching for personal growth in my walk with Christ. I'm not trying to bash the church at all. This "hybrid" model might be the perfect fit for many people seeking a strong community aspect, and it is on the smaller, more intimate side. The campus pastor even made sure to say hi and goodbye to everyone after the service, which was a really nice touch. I'm just trying to provide all the information for anyone considering visiting for the first time. Please don't let my review sway you from checking it out for yourself to see if it fits your needs. This is just my personal experience, and everyone's will be different. They are still a solid church, and their teachings are aligned with my beliefs, but for my personal spiritual growth, I don't think it's the place for me. God bless. read more

Are you looking for a church you can belong to? Saddleback Brea is built on a foundation of love...love for Jesus, community, service, discipleship and evangelism. I started going to Saddleback Brea about a year ago and it has made my life so much better. I was struck by how warm and friendly the people were. They really do care! And, I have been here ever since. We are a church that supports each other and has the biggest heart for service, not only on Sundays but with our different ministries and community outreach. But, most of all, we have fun together! If you've haven't found a church to plug in and get connected to community, then Saddleback Brea may just be the place for you. read more

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Unfortunately Not for me. I have been on a quest to find a new church and sadly this is not it. I grew up in Texas going to Cornerstone and even though that's a huge church, there was a connection. Now I currently watch pastors on YouTube from home, and this felt just like that. Let me explain. First off, The music was awesome. Great songs, and upon entering the 9am service it felt like this had strong potential. There was a 5 person band and the lead guitarist /singer was incredible. He is a great lead for the band. The back up singers were decent. Off to a great start! Following the music intro, came who I thought was the pastor that would be giving the service. He only introduced Stacie Wood via teleprompter. While her speech was beautiful, there's no connection because she's streaming in through another location. I've never experienced a church like this. Is this a thing? Count me out! Is it a university style church? (Stacie briefly mentioned something at the start of her speech to that respect). Sadly I'd rather be at home in my pajamas with my children watching this. Personally, this is why an almost 300 seated venue is less than half full in my opinion. People want connection. No matter how loving the people are attending, they are all looking for some sort of leadership, this sadly felt very disconnected from ANY service I've ever been to. While I'm sure some people say, it's not about the service but the community. I personally feel like there should be a balance. Give me 5 min of Stacie and the rest from the churches pastor/speaker. He could have done that same speech better in my opinion. I was more engaged when he was on stage for two minutes. I could handle that type of service, but the entire service online... in a church? Say what? It reminded me of having a substitute teacher and they just put on a video and tell you to watch this for the entire class. That was my energy here at Saddleback. Anyhow, I'm still giving 4 stars because today's teleprompter word was good, the band was on point, the people were lovely, the venue is clean, but the hunt is still on for me to find the church that connects with me. Sadly, I will not return. (Unless there's an update for no more teleprompter service. ) read more

Saddleback Church - Brea - Pamphlet entering - Churches Near Me - Brea, California

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This place is for anyone and everyone. The people here are so genuinely friendly and welcoming. They place focus on embracing and including every person, encouraging and enabling connection in innumerable ways- small groups, events, volunteering, etc. There's no uncomfortable pressure or judgment, but the apparent love of the body of Christ draws you in. The campus pastors are kind and capable and the messages from the Lead Pastor Andy Wood impart wisdom and Biblical instruction in an understandable and applicable way. He's also hilarious. My husband and I especially like the Brea location because it's not too big. I think Saddleback is filling the role of the church excellently in loving our communities and welcoming all. read more

This is a great church. There are several friendly greeters. First timers feel right at home here. Stop by the Connection Center and pick up a free welcome gift. Pastor AJ has great love for the Lord. They have child care and a lot of small groups available. The worship team is exceptional. Come join us on Sundays at 9 am and 11 am. Come early for a cup of coffee and a cookie read more

Saddleback Church - Brea - Churches Near Me - Brea, California

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From the moment I entered I was greeted by the most kindest and friendliest people They seriously made me feel like home. Clean, happy and no pressure.. just warmth and sincere kindness. Thank you for the most beautiful experience. read more

I love Saddleback Brea the people are so friendly. My whole family goes there, including my two grandchildren. They love it also. I love the worship music. Right now we are going through the new testament with the Immerse Bible that was given to everyone for free so that we would all go through the Bible together. I'm in a small group of ladies around my age that we meet every Wednesday to pray, fellowship and do fun things with. It's truly my second family. And I thank God daily for Saddleback. It was truly an answer to prayer. read more

Real People with real life stories sharing God's love. A place that it's okay not to be okay. Come as we are. read more

A good friend shouldn't just be someone to hang with, but someone who encourages and challenges us to be more like Jesus in our daily lives. And I met friends like them at Saddleback Yorba Linda. read more

Love my church family! This campus is more than just a Sunday meet up to worship the Lord. This campus is a place where we have many opportunities to serve the Lord in our own ways within different ministries. We all help each other out to build this church up and we see the growth happen right before our eyes. Best part of all - we take pride in being S.A.D.D.L.E.B.A.C.K. Yes, our name is an acronym. Find out what it stands for and you'll know what we're about. I'll give you a clue - we are a 'Second chance grace place' and proud of it! God has blessed us with the great opportunity of being rooted within the great community of Yorba Linda - Brea. People near and far come to visit this campus giving us a large diversity of people making for a great experience in seeing God's creativeness in each individual. So whether you've grown up with God, recently found God, curious about God, don't know God, or just want to see what's going on here on Sunday's and check things out... Come pay us a visit - you can even come find me if you'd like, I'm there every Sunday from 10:30am till at least 1PM. Say "hi" and let me know you're from Yelp - I'll show you around! First service starts at 9AM and second service starts at 11AM. For now we only have Sunday services. If you live within the area I highly encourage you to pay us a visit at least once. I promise we'll give you a warm welcome! Stop by the 'Connection' booth for a proper introduction as well! It's also a great place to get info on our small groups too! read more

Every Sunday morning I can walk onto this church campus and be loved! It's crazy; the conversations I've had and the connections I've made here have had a positive impact on my days, my weeks and continue to carry over into my daily. There's two service times; 9AM and 11AM. There is coffee!! And it's good coffee! Cause someone wise once said "Coffee is the most important meal of the day." The music is amazing! There is indoor and outdoor seating, which is really nice when it's a beautiful summer day! Pastor Santosh is genuine and always available to talk after services! Pastor Rick Warren's messages are always on point too. Ultimately, this is a place where no matter what mood I arrive in, I leave joyful and loved! read more

Genuine Love here! Gods love is at this church! You will find your purpose in life as you discover Everything that God is doing here. Please visit! Your life will never be the same read more

This is a great place to meet new people in a casual and friendly atmosphere. I enjoy the live music and the encouraging messages. I feel loved and accepted whenever I attend. read more

It's really awesome to see and feel the amount of encouragement that comes from Saddleback Yorba Linda. On top of the constant encouragement, this church really does put love at the frontline of everything they do in its many areas of service! read more

Love this church! It is more than a place or a gathering; it's a community. Every week when you walk in, you are greeted by smiling faces and warm hellos. Everyone around seems genuinely happy to be there, and it is hard not to feel the same way. Worship isn't extravagant, but it is heartfelt. Pastor Rick always has practical messages for real life application. Come check it out! You won't be disappointed :) read more

Our home church! Campus Pastor Tosh is so authentic and genuine! If you are looking for a welcoming community to share life with the ups and downs come by and check it out! All are welcome! There is hope and purpose in our lives and Pastor Rick Warren helps you find it! Looking forward to seeing you there! read more

From day one this church has warmly welcomed me and my family! I truly feel loved and welcomed there. I love that there is a wonderful kids program; my kids are always so excited to go! The teaching is solid and extremely practical. Plenty of parking, clearly marked entrances, and smiling faces make it easy and pleasant to attend week after week. Love it! read more

This is a new church in Yorba Linda and the Pastor says SBYL stands for Saddleback you are Loved and it feels like it. Started attending a little before Christmas and found that after a rough week it was the perfect place to recharge and reground my perspective. After a good week it was equally perfect to reflect and reground. Life is a team sport and this is a great team to be a part of. Give it try and decide for yourself! read more

This is a place that claims to be welcoming for everyone who comes no matter their background ... And you feel it in the environment and with every person you meet each weekend! It is awesome to see such diversity here and to meet new people all the time. I am so thankful for this amazing community! My kids look forward to going every week and they come away learning great things while having a great time. Come check it out and you'll be so thankful you did. You'll feel like you've found the home you didn't know you were even looking for! read more

I really love this church and the convenience of how close it is to home is a bonus! I always feel welcomed and refreshed when I am there. I feel there is always something fun going on after each service, whether there is a theme with a nice treat or just people hanging out and talking. Great atmosphere! My daughter (7) LOVES the kids program, all the staff members there are wonderful and well trained to be with kids. I especially love their check in/out system, makes me feel better about leaving my kiddo there so I can enjoy the service. Great church! read more

This church is amazing! It's visitor friendly and welcoming. Love the messages of hope.

Located right here in Yorba Linda and drawing people from all over OC makes it a interesting mix of all races and life experiences in my back yard! The services are uplifting and casual. The musicians are top notch and of course messages from Rick Warren are always insightful and timely. How can you go wrong with a theme "You are loved"? It's obvious they are living it. read more

This church is so amazing! It is small and intimate which makes it so special because you can easily connect with people. You can feel the generosity of the volunteers here and Pastor Tosh makes such a great effort to greet everyone. I'm so glad that I found this church and I get to call it my home! I highly recommend this location to anyone! read more

This is the best place to call home! The people of the church are so sweet, caring and loving most of all! The size of the church is awesome! It's very intimate and you get to know a lot of people in the community! I love my home church and the people in it! read more

One word to sum up this church: Love. From the moment one walks onto the campus, there is this strong sense of belonging right away. I have made friends of all ages since Saddleback Yorba Linda started last year. I learned to be more brave and to get out of my comfort zone when it comes to serving others. Come and experience the love and connection! read more

This church is amazing! People are genuinely loving and friendly. Such a great variety of people of all ages. I would definitely recommend stopping by for a visit and see for yourselves. Children's program is awesome , especially Nathan who overseas the kids. read more

Cool. Multi cultural environment. Easy, relaxed and friendly. Very easy to get in comfortable and warm

This is the best place to make friends. People here are very friendly. Make sure to hang around in the patio between 1st and 2nd service to chat with them. You can also stop by the Communication Center. They will help you connect to the right people for you. read more

If you're looking for a church with great music, awesome messages, and an extremely welcoming community then this is the church for you! I lead worship here every once and a while and the people who run everything are incredibly friendly and warm. read more