Reverend Andrea Messinger
Senior Pastor
Andrea is a graduate of the Fuller Theological Seminary (M. Div. 1988.) She has been married to her husband, Rev. Dr. Thomas Messinger for 25 years. They have two wonderful children, Amelia and Tommy. Amelia is graduate of the University of Channel Islands, and Tommy is in college at San Diego State. Both kids have been very involved in church activities. Andrea has always been thankful that God has brought her to serve at FPCC, and FPCC is so blessed to have such a Holy Spirit empowered Senior Pastor as Andrea!
Ernie Johnson
Director of Visitation
Ernie is married, has two children and has a Master’s degree in Theology and Christian education through Fuller Seminary and Presbyterian School of Christian Education. He has completed certificate courses in basic and advanced “Caring for People God’s Way” and “Marriage Relationships” and gives biblically based counsel. In conjunction with his pastoral ministry, he has led two grief seminars. He has taught over twenty biblical and relationship courses at the church. He served as a missionary to the Middle East for five years, primarily as a treasurer and controller for a multi-country team. He is hard working, and a blessing to those he cares for, and has a servant’s heart in all he does.
Elliott Stava
High School Director
I grew up in Arroyo Grande, a small town next to Pismo Beach, and have spent the last 8 years as a resident of the San Gabriel Valley. I am a graduate of Azusa Pacific University with a degree in Biblical Studies and a minor in Philosophy. APU was a very eye-opening experience for me and I feel that it was there that I truly received a heart for ministry. I have a strong passion for many things in my life including; running, playing guitar, the San Diego Chargers, San Diego Padres, L.A. Lakers, and a Goofy Movie. But one of my main passions is to work with the youth and to give them a chance to experience and learn about God in new ways. My favorite verse in the Bible is Luke 18:9-14, which shows what it means to have a true repentant heart and to wholly humble yourself before God. I pray this is the way I lead these students.
Elliottstava@yahoo.com
(626) 332-6251 ext.35
David Severin
Jr High Director
DJ is a student at Cal Poly Pomona where he is studying to one day become a math teacher. DJ has grown up in the area and has spent much of his life as an active participant of this church. He has an amazing energy and a way of connecting with Jr. High students on a very deep level.
dseverin14@yahoo.com
(626) 332-6251 ext.36
Casey Costello Alvarez
Children’s Director
I consider myself blessed to have grown up in this church. So much of who I am today is due to the teachings and guidance I received here in the very ministry that I am now leading. I have been serving in our children’s ministry since 2003. My desire is for each child to have a personal relationship with God and a passion to share His love with everyone they meet. My husband and I are enjoying being new parents to our daughter Abigail Alvarez. God is good!
Favorite Verse:
“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances.” -1 Thes 5:16-18
caseyalvarez3@gamil.com
(626) 332-6251 ext. 26
Dr. Stephen Pu
Chancel Choir Director
Stephen Pu is a native of Orange County, California, where he studied piano performance and voice with Ming-I Chen. He has won several prizes at regional piano competitions, including top honors at the Southwestern Youth Music Festival. As a pianist, he has appeared in California and Hawaii to warm applause. As a singer, he has sung with many renowned ensembles and appeared on several major stages, including Walt Disney Concert Hall and Hollywood Bowl. He is also a noted conductor, serving as Music Director for Boys and Girls Club of Hollywood for over five years, and conducting on such notable stages as UCLA’s Royce Hall.
Dr. Neil Stipp
Organist
Neil Stipp is a music teacher, concert organist, author, and award-winning composer. He also performs for musicals, weddings, graduations, memorial services, and other events. His teaching includes private instruction in piano and organ. Neil has served as organist at various churches, primarily in the southland, for 38 continuous and uninterrupted years.
Neil received a doctorate in organ performance in June 2003. The schools he graduated from are UCLA (full scholarship), USC, and Biola University.
