I am so glad I decided to venture out and visit a church while out of town! Twin Lakes is amazing. I loved that not only did they have a lot of parking but there were clearly marked signs of where to go. I was welcomed when I walked in and people looked excited to be there. It's a large church so there were a lot of seating options but it did fill up right as the service I went to started at 9. Worship was so good! Everyone was passionate. It was just the right amount to prepare your heart and then they dove into the Word. They are a Bible teaching church which I love. They stuck to the Word then taught how it applied in today's world. It was convicting with love. After service I looked around and they offer tons of resources and groups for people. I loved their bookstore area. The gal that checked me out even gave me a first time gift. Way to make me feel special and included. I visit this area somewhat regularly and look forward to returning! read more

Absolutely a wonderful place of worship and sense of community. The pastors are exceptional. Facilities are exceptional. Coffee shop is a bonus. I highly recommend this church. read more

Twin Lakes Church - As Peri Searson's former partner... I highly recommend Twin Lakes Church. Chet - Churches Near Me - Aptos, California

Saturday evening, May 17th, I attended Twin Lakes Church and it was a spiritual shot in the arm for me. The focus was on Jesus Christ, who said "If I be lifted up, I will draw all men to Myself." That is the verse I would use to describe the atmosphere. You couldn't be there and not since God's presence. The music was bathed in God's Spirit, the lyrics were Scripture and singing those words of truth gave a constant affirmation of Christ among us. It was powerfully unifying to speak and sing these scriptures with my church family. We had one voice harmonizing His word. Trent Smith led the worship and he did something that he couldn't have done apart from God's Spirit. He quieted his natural charisma and his voice was one with ours. There was no showmanship in him. After crying buckets of tears, and being certain that I was going to be lifted up to heaven at any second, it was time for the message. Mark Spurlock spoke from Lamentations. The verses told of people who were overwhelmed, dismayed and heavy hearted. They were full of regret, sorrow, and a sense of loss. Not only that , God burned in anger over their ways. Bad times. Just as Mr. Spurlock was captivating us with his vivid description of these poor souls, he stopped and said he wanted to read a bedtime story to us: The Moon is Always Round It was charming, whimsical, and it gave me assurance that God is always here. There is no variation or shifting shadow with Him. Even if it is so very dark, He is nonetheless here. After our bedtime story, Mark went back to Lamentations and we find the people even in the midst of their affliction, remembering that God's faithfulness is great. Cue Trent Smith on keyboard and Rebecca Jackson on violin performing with heartbreaking beauty, brilliance, and God-given skill that wonderful old hymn, Great is Thy Faithfulness. It was profoundly moving -words can't express. The Holy Spirit was free and active that night and I wouldn't have missed it for the world. read more

I am 44 years old, born and raised in Aptos. I attended Twin Lakes Church for most of my childhood and some of my adulthood. I deeply love Twin Lakes Church and many of the people who attend or who are on staff. Here are three things that some people considering attending Twin Lakes may be interested to know regarding cultural issues, Bible study leader qualifications, and views of the afterlife. Each of these things was confirmed to me recently by Lead Pastor Rene Schlaepfer. First, it is permissible for TLC pastors to hold LGBT-affirming views. Second, TLC imposes no requirements for the beliefs or lifestyles of any volunteer positions, including home group Bible study leaders. Third, it is permissible for TLC pastors to hold alternative views of the afterlife, such as universalism (all will be saved) or annihilationism (the lost will cease to exist). Eighth graders who attend the private school at Twin Lakes are taught that universalism and annihilationism are viable Christian views of the afterlife alongside eternal separation. As I pointed out to Pastor Schlaepfer, it is unclear from the "Our Beliefs" link on the TLC website what positions the church officially espouses. It contains no language about marriage and only a single phrase about the lost that is compatible with either eternal separation, universalism, or annihilationism. I sincerely hope and pray that TLC leadership will publicly, unequivocally state where the church officially stands on these issues and whether there is any requirement for TLC pastors to align with those positions. Or, failing that, to publicly state that the church takes no positions. At least then people will better know who their shepherds are and can make informed decisions on whether TLC is the right place for them and their families. read more

I love Twin Lakes so much! People are friendly, and the church and community are doing SO MUCH to support each other. I've never seen anything like that! Pastor Rene is absolutely amazing and inspiring! I'm learning so much from him. I especially love the hub. I really like the music, and people are open and vulnerable. Absolutely beautiful!! read more

My favorite church. I love Rene, he gives the best messages. This place has such a warm feeling to it and is very welcoming and everyone is so kind!! read more

TLC's music ministry is wonderful and inspiring. Sermons are educational, enlightening, packed with God's Grace & gratitude. I very much enjoyed the Sunday mornings coffee cart at the front door in years past.. (it stopped due to Covid) ;( I hope they bring the Sunday morning coffee cart back again.. It was so much more welcoming.. gave folks a place to interact & chat.. I made so many friends there.. compared to now.. walk'n across the parking lot to a sterile, cold and indifferent coffee bar. It's not the same feeling of "welcome". I miss the Sunday morning coffee cart and a casual conversation with friends.. old & new. Just say'n.. cheers.! read more

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My family no longer attends TLC because some of their "beliefs" do not line up biblically; specifically LGB, female pastors, etc. I recently emailed TLC asking for clarification on the church's beliefs and was never responded to, which in itself is a huge answer. I also cross-referenced TLC's beliefs to other bible teaching churches I know of and was very surprised at how vague and general TLC's beliefs are. We should be bold and brave in times of a disoriented world, not cave to the pressures and judgments of our community or members of the congregation. The Bible is definitive in what we should believe as true God-fearing Christians and we shouldn't be picking and choosing what we believe from the actual truth. In addition, we don't need a motivational speaker, we need a Pastor who will stand up for what's right no matter the pushback. Honestly, TLC should be more open about their beliefs and where they stand so true believers and non-believers aren't unknowingly being misguided and left spiritually thirsty. Truly disappointed with TLC and will be praying for this church to find its way. On a different note, I have never seen a church consistently ask for money in my entire life. It is very obvious this church is on a path of unrighteousness and has motives that are most likely unknown to the bulk of the congregation. read more

Pastor Renee and the team at twin lakes Church was there when I needed them through their benevolence program I had just gotten out of rehab after a long battle with relapse during covid after completing the Janus program I basically had nowhere to go. I was told that they may be able to help with my first month's rent at my sober living environment I made an appointment to go down there and dinner interview and a couple weeks later they got back to me saying they would take care of the first month's rent this made it through a smooth transition to get back on my feet again this is over a year and a half ago life is good I'm rebuilding my life instead of having my family plan my funeral thanks twin lakes. read more

Twin Lakes Church - Reunited with my son because of twilight's Church's help and have benevolence program - Churches Near Me - Aptos, California

A watered down social club/fun center that can barely pass as a 'church'. They don't preach the Gospel, only self help messages that won't offend you; they want you coming back and tithing. The phrase 'Born again' is a foreign concept. They have a coffee shop on the property; not a single verse of the Bible, a cross or any indication that the shop is part of the 'church'. The coffee shop would be the perfect place to spread the Gospel! The place is full of Cabrillo College students needing to find Christ...not a single flyer advertising their Christian college group!!! None! Zero! But the money $$$ is flowing in. The place is always busy, selling toast with avocado for $7.00 and other over priced treats. Something is very wrong with this place. Wouldn't trust my soul or the souls of my family here. read more

Love this Church!!! I drive from San Jose just to come here! Many of my friends come here and I am always pleased on the Sermons, the music! read more

It is with great sadness,I am called to write this review.I started listening to Pastor Renes teachings on the Radio many many years ago,and have been attending tlc for 40 plus years.After many years of study.I decided 4 years ago to put my studies into action,and be of service.I was absolutely appalled by the backstabbing,gossip,and bullying of the leaders and members at this church.I went along to get along.Until I couldn't anymore.After losing two of my brothers to suicide in the past few years due to this kind of behavior.I was called to address these important issues.Church should be a save haven.A place where all are excepted and welcome.It is not a place of gossip,judgement and bullying.I will no longer be attending due to the hypocrites I experience in this church. read more

This is the church for me. It feels SO good to finally say this, and it's been a long and windy road getting here. I was raised with religion, went to private school, and attended church 3x a week in school and once on Sunday with my parents. Sunday service was BORING. It meant frilly, itchy, uncomfortable dresses, tacky lace socks (I'm Mexican, yes, this is what we do), complete silence and not understanding what was going on. As I got older and entered public school, I am ashamed to admit I diverted from my roots and church was definitely a chore, not something I enjoyed doing or went out of my way to attend. Herein enters my now husband and his awesome parents. He grew up in Aptos and his parents had attended TLC for years. In 2009, I was invited to the Christmas Concert and was blown away by the immense talent of the congregation. This is a Big Deal in the area, and the house was PACKED. I hear it's always been like this. Every year since, we have made it a point to attend the concert... you also definitely do NOT want to miss the Easter service. Aside from the big religious holidays, I really have to give Pastor Rene and the TLC staff a HUGE fist bump for the engaging, relevant and outside the box sermons every week. A few times, I have been moved to (silent) tears by the message. THAT is how you know you've found the right place. For the record, I drive from CAMPBELL and pack up my four kids to attend. Faith isn't an obligation, it's a choice. It shouldn't be something that you feel put out by, you shouldn't be bored by it, it needn't be sold to you by solicitation or literature...it should come naturally. TLC has mastered this in every way and I'm proud to call this place home. read more

Twin Lakes Church - Cry room for moms with fussy babies (like mine) :-) - Churches Near Me - Aptos, California

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For a number of years, our family came to TLC monthly when we went to our cabin in the Santa Cruz mountains. We loved Rene's messages and our kids enjoyed the kids program. It was a great church for the whole family. Now that we don't have the cabin, and we are sheltered because of Covid 19, we virtually attend TLC weekly and get the daily devotions which are so encouraging. The messages are relevant and makes me reevaluate what it means to be a Christian and how I should live my life. It's a great church that serves the community and loves all people. read more

In the area for a weekend event and decided to try out this church before heading home. The songs were on the slower side and repetitive. The message was dynamic and engaging. They are in the midst of a "Chasing David" series. This Sunday's message was from Samuel, discussing Shakespeare's tragic heroes, and how David qualifies, even though we consider him a great hero, we have this story about his lust after Bathsheba and the cover-up. Very interesting message, very Bible focused, as the message would move forward as the next verse(s) were read and analyzed. Ended on a cliff hanger, and we were told to come back next week. The people all seemed very welcoming and friendly. read more

I appreciate this church so very much. I have been attending this church since 1974. The pastors, fellowship and events are all with one goal in mind...serving others. My wife and I have been totally blessed and Twin Lakes has played a very large part in it. read more

An exceptional community resource with a compassionate global perspective and a gifted and articulate visionary for a pastor.

Planphobia. I have an irrational fear of planning. I do. But, about every 2-3 months, I wake up bright and early (8 AM) on Sunday, load the Labs in cargo hold of my SUV and head south to Santa Cruz. For church. I know! Church. Well, the dogs have to chill in the parking lot during the sermon (which is always fantastic when the senior pastor, Rene--who is a man (don't be fooled by the name)--is preaching. The reason I love this church (but don't attend any other church in any regular way) is their openness and loving spirit. No one beats you over the head with guilt. No one accosts you in the pews. The spirit that pervades is, "you know, sometimes we all question our faith." "You know, sometimes we ALL fail." The pastor says, here's how I screwed up. I bet you do that sometimes, too. We sin. We screw up. We do things that we feel are really unforgivable. And unforgettable. This place inspires me to do better. It inspires me to know myself better. And see God in myself (most of the time I think Satan seems clearer). Anyway, check it. The music is the BEST. read more

I am Catholic. But, the times we've attended Twin Lakes Christian Church I loved it. I love the head pastor, Pastor Renee and all of the other pastors at Twin Lakes. The message they teach is one of love and acceptance of others. Twin Lakes is probably the largest mega church in Santa Cruz. If you want to get lost in a crowd, it would be perfect. If you want to make new friends, the people here are are very friendly and welcoming. read more

An amazing Church community. So much to do outside of the weekly service - would be easy have some meaningful fellowship and service opportunities 7 days a week. Pastor Renee and team are a blessing to this community. read more

Love Twin Lakes! Best church ever! So positive and uplifting every time we go, and Pastor Rene rocks!! Such friendly people and staff here, and there is plenty of parking, just a matter of how far away you need to walk! I try to bring everybody to a service here, and everybody has enjoyed it, whether they are religious or not, they feel very much included even if Twin Lakes isn't their home. read more

Twin Lakes Church - Ho'onani girls hula dancing at Hawaii night - Churches Near Me - Aptos, California

Twin Lakes is a welcoming Baptist church that I moved away from awhile back. I moved away so I am not current, but, yeah, it was REALLY inviting when I was involved :) read more

Truly the best church I've ever attended! Have shared in many wonderful memories for the past 20 years at this church. Pastor Rene has been such a blessing in my life. Life Changing! Thank you for introducing me, so many years ago. read more

I have been coming to TLC for 15 years. There is no way I could have raised my son without the spiritual support of TLC. There is something for everyone here, whether youth groups, singles, women, small groups, addicts or hikers. TLC pastors never condemn or shame us. They give messages straight from the Bible to encourage and give hope, in a way everyday people can relate to. read more

This is the best Christian Church in Santa Cruz. Rene, the pastor, is great. He is never condescending and I always feel welcome. I have been to other christian churches and have walked out during a sermon because they begin to bash gay marriage, abortion, etc. I have my own beliefs and opinions about these two subjects and I certainly don't want to hear some dogmatic sermon about that. Rene NEVER does that. He is kind, open, and helps lift my spirits every weekend. When I leave church, I feel rejuvenated and ready for the week, not guilty and shamed, or even judgemental! We are lucky to have this church! read more

Twin Lakes is a church with a history in Santa Cruz, and yet it maintains a relevance for today. They have lots going on and try to help the community whenever they can. read more

When I first drove-up and saw the size of this church 10 years ago, I felt overwhelmed and thought this isn't for me. I decided to go in anyway and found that Pastor Rene made me feel as if he were only talking to me. Once I had been going for several months, it became as quaint as any small denomination as the congregation made it feel so homey. Twin Lakes has over the years helped me in many ways. I have found a home at Twin Lakes read more

Wonderful church with strong ties to our community. Lots of service times on both Saturday evening and Sunday morning, so we can always find a service that works for us. The worship music is the best and Pastor Rene's sermons are always insightful. He has a way of taking scripture and giving you ways to apply it directly to your life. read more

Love the worship! Love the atmosphere, especially the sermon! Very gripping and very interesting indeed!

Twin Lakes is the most wonderful church! I have never had such a close relationship with God as i have after attending TLC. Pastor Rene is truly inspirational and captivating during sermons. I love that there are message notes so that I can follow along during the sermons. The sermons are also posted on the website so I am able to watch them when I miss a service. All the people I've met at TLC are very kind. I've loved participating in short term mission trips with the high school group, like Camp Attitude and Club Dust. I have made so many great friends on these trips. TLC does so many great things for the community, from raising money for Second Harvest Food Bank to gathering presents during Christmas. Twin Lakes has made me a better person and I am happy to call this church my home. read more

If your looking for a church you can pop in on Saturday or Sunday. You will feel welcome. I have been going here for over 20 years. It's home. It is very active in our community. A large pastoral staff. There are many ways to connect with people. They have an information desk for questions. Great resources to help you. God loving Grace filled church. read more

I am reviewing the Christmas Show that this church puts on. The Christmas Show they put on is fantastic and worth seeing. I know they have had people from out of town come and see it. I hope Twin Lakes Church keeps doing it. read more

Relaxed atmosphere, good teaching, great music, and friendly people. This church has been very active in supporting Second Harvest food bank, and many other charitable organizations in Santa Cruz County and around the world. read more

Pastor Renee and his staff at Twin Lakes Church are truly inspiring and down to earth. The service makes me feel that I can make it through another week with all of it's positive encouragement and music. Pastor Renee is so humble and honest and ( extremely funny!) I love when he shares his stories with us because it makes you feel like he's human too and has made mistakes but that God loves us no matter what. Everyone should try it - you may just like (love!) it. read more

Pastor Rene is the most compassionate minister I have ever run across. He teaches with humor, grace, and loads of love. The music is terrific and it is wonderful to see this part of the service expanding. Additionally, the Stephens Ministry is there after services for individual prayer. There is a church for everyone and this one suits me well. read more

New to the area and looking for a new church. Have attended TLC several times and I have found worship there to be rather boring and anemic. Every church has it's own distinct personality and way of doing things that has proven to be successful for them. I keep waiting for the congregation to get fired up, but it just doesn't happen. Perhaps that is just the personality of this church. Additionally, I have never been in any Christian church where there has not been a single representation of a cross during the entire service.......that's how it was last week. It just felt odd to me. Well, TLC must be doing something right based on it's membership, attendance and ties to the community. I wish them only the very best. I just don't think this is the church for me. read more

About 6 years ago my husband and I decided to join our friends for a service at Twin Lakes Church. We have been members ever since. We both got baptized there and absolutely love it. Rene's (the Pastor) sermons always come across like he is talking specifically to you. Speaking to you about what's going on in your life. I recommend TLC to everyone! read more

Have been with Twin Lakes Church for 40 years! Love the staff, people, the pastors, and especially Rene's sermons! The church is warm, inviting, and always has classes for everyone of all ages! Not a believer, not a problem! Come listen to the uplifting sermons and you will change your mind! read more

This is a church for "Christianity lite" (tastes great, less filling). Pastor Rene is a great speaker and very funny. He was a former radio DJ which you can tell by hearing him speak. There are multiple ways to get involved during the week. There is a Christian school on the campus run by the church, too. Rene is well connected to the community and involved in Second Harvest Food Bank. There is a new worship pastor, Trent Smith, who is a big step up from the previous one. Since I work on Sundays I go here on Saturday nights to worship. As I said this is not a Bible teaching church like Santa Cruz Bible Church or others. The sermons are meant to appeal to the masses who may or may not be saved. Unfortunately when you have thousands of people who attend each week the message is watered down to reach everyone (which shouldn't be the case). I enjoy singing the worship songs and listening to Rene's stories but if he isn't speaking, I won't go that night. There are Christmas and Easter programs that can be appealing to some. Just make sure you get there very early or else you won't find a seat or parking. Its worth giving it a try. You may find a new church home. read more

Great community! Love the childrens programs.