Mariners Church
Mariners Church is a non-denominational, Christian megachurch located in Irvine, California, situated in central Orange County, and as of 2022 was the 41st largest church in the United States by number of attendees as well as one of the fastest growing. Eric Geiger is the current Senior Pastor of Mariners Church, assuming the role in 2018 after a six month search process. The previous Senior Pastor, Kenton Beshore, who began his career at Mariners Church as the College Pastor in 1978, led the church from 1984-2018 and remains actively involved as Pastor Emeritus. A podcast detailing the transition process and continued partnership of Beshore and Geiger is set to release in 2024. Geiger received his doctorate in leadership and church ministry from Southern Seminary, and is the author of several books including the best-selling church leadership book, Simple Church. Under his leadership, Mariners Church has grown to seven locations in Southern California, expanded its digital and online offerings (including virtual worship experiences and small groups), and brought worship services to the Orange County Rescue Mission, Orangewood Children’s Home, Sunburst Youth Academy, senior living facilities, and prisons throughout North America. Congregation and style of worship In 2016, Mariners averaged about 13,861