Eric Falcinella Takes the Helm

At Saddleback, it’s fairly standard for the leadership team to be fast, fluid, and flexible — especially when it comes to shepherding our members and filling God’s house. That’s why on March 10, Pastor Rick commissioned Eric Falcinella to be the new Campus Pastor of Saddleback San Clemente.

After seven years at Saddleback, ministry is nothing new to Pastor Eric. He’s served in several capacities including Pastor of Guest Services, Pastor of 301 Mobilization, 101 Pastor at San Clemente, and Pastor of Network Development.

Each role has taught him something important that he can bring to the table as San Clemente’s Campus Pastor. While on the frontlines of Guest Services, he discovered how critical that ministry is to the over-all success of the weekend experience. While overseeing 301, he learned about the importance of members understanding their SHAPE for ministry and how that impacts the life of the church. In his 101 role, he was equipped on strategy of adult ministries and small groups. As former Pastor of Network Development, Eric learned about networking, marketing, communications, and leading volunteers.

“It seems pretty obvious that God has been preparing me for this new role at San Clemente,” says Eric, “I have always had a heart for that campus, that started four years ago when I served as the 101 Pastor. When I was approached about the possibility of this role, I knew immediately it was the right place and time for my family.”

Leaning on the mantra to be “fast, fluid and flexible,” Eric says he was both excited and stressed with the extremely fast transition. From one day to the next, Eric and his family had to adjust many aspects of their life that were already scheduled. In addition to the move, Eric was still juggling his previous role at Saddleback which resulted in a 2-week overlap of positions.

Together, their family prayed that God would carry them through the transition. As a result, God has blessed them with overwhelming peace and affirmation.

“I feel hopeful that God will use me and my family as the glue to keep this campus unified,” says Eric. We’re excited about reaching the new community of Rancho Mission Viejo, and using our PEACE Center to help people in need.”

Pastor Eric plans to rely on his background to bring support and structure to the staff and members, to help grow in numbers and influence in the community. He wants to see the church as a whole take steps of spiritual maturity by way of CLASS and serving in ministry.

As part of his long-term vision, Eric plans to finish out current building projects, and personally meet with every member of Saddleback San Clemente to encourage enrollment in Class 101-401.

“We are a campus that connects with our military, our surf culture, and the traditional So Cal resident,” says Pastor Eric. “It’s in a location that really creates diversity and uniqueness. Sometimes people assume we are a ‘surfer church,’ but we’re so much more than that.”

To learn more about Saddleback San Clemente, visit saddleback.com/sanclemente.