El Buen Pastor
Living the Loving Legacy — A Christ-centered, multicultural community reaching San Clemente and beyond with the redeeming message of Christ's love.
Who We Are
A family of faith rooted in Christ's love
Ekklēsia El Buen Pastor (EBP) is a vibrant, Christ-centered church located in San Clemente, California. We are a multicultural community of believers united by our love for Jesus and our commitment to living out His Great Commission in our neighborhoods and to the ends of the earth.
Together with Cornerstone Community Church (C3), we jointly minister from San Clemente as two branches of the ONE vine — reaching the tri-city area of San Clemente, Dana Point, and San Juan Capistrano, as well as newcomers, tourists, and military personnel.
Our focus on "GenNu" (Generación Nueva / New Generation) reflects our commitment to second and third-generation persons — immigrants, dreamers, refugees, citizens, and believers — who uniquely bridge languages, cultures, and communities as a missional multiplying force.
Christ-Centered
Our teaching is biblically based and centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Family-Oriented
We emphasize relationships, value marriage and family, and take our children and youth seriously.
Spirit-Led
We welcome God's Spirit to work in our hearts and lives, transforming us daily.
Mission-Minded
We intentionally invest in outreach and missions locally and globally, following the Method of the Master.
Our History
A legacy of faith spanning centuries and continents
California's First Explorers
Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo and his crew entered San Diego Bay — the first Europeans to visit California. The land they named "Alta California" was occupied by diverse groups of native people who had inhabited it for thousands of years.
First Christian Baptism in Alta California
During the Portola-Serra Expedition, Padre Francisco Gomez performed the first known Christian baptism in Alta California on July 22, 1769. The missionaries named the area "Los Cristianitos" — meaning "little Christians."
Mission San Juan Capistrano Founded
Mission San Juan Capistrano was permanently founded by Padre Junipero Serra as the seventh of 21 missions established in California by the Spanish Crown — the Birthplace of Orange County.
First Christian Church Established
In May 1956, the First Christian Church was established in San Clemente, meeting in the Ole Hanson Beach Club. In 1959, the church purchased property and built its facility at 708 Avenida De La Estrella.
Iglesia El Buen Pastor Planted
Phillip and Susan Kavanagh, British missionaries, planted the first Spanish-language ministry outside the Catholic church at 708 Avenida De La Estrella — Iglesia "El Buen Pastor," named after the church they served in Cochabamba, Bolivia.
Cornerstone Community Church Formed
Two churches merged and formed "Cornerstone Community Church (C3)" of San Clemente — a combined fellowship of Christians that has been healthy, joyful, and growing ever since.
Pastor Mike & Hilda Evans
Pastor Mike and Hilda Evans shepherded Iglesia El Buen Pastor for over twenty years. During these years, EBP moved from San Clemente to San Juan Capistrano and was guided by divine providence back to its founding city and location.
Living & Loving Legacy
Pastor Ernesto and Corinna Hernandez were called to steward the "Living & Loving Legacy" of both Believer's Chapel and Iglesia El Buen Pastor, with a particular focus on GenNu — the New Generation that bridges cultures and communities.
Our Ministries
Equipping the church to grow in faith and serve others
Worship
Our worship ministry leads the congregation into the presence of God through music, prayer, and creative expression in both English and Spanish.
Youth & Young Adults
We take our young people seriously. GenNu invests in the next generation through Bible study, mentorship, and community building.
Children's Ministry
Nurturing the faith of our little ones through age-appropriate teaching, worship, and activities that plant seeds of the Gospel.
Kaleo Communities
Our home ministry groups where believers gather for fellowship, prayer, and Bible study in intimate settings throughout the week.
Global Missions
From Kenya and Tanzania in Africa to the Philippines, Mexico, and South America — we bring the Gospel and compassion to those in need worldwide.
Marriage & Family
We value marriage and family as God's primary means of building and sustaining society, offering counseling, workshops, and support.
Missions in Action
Bringing the Gospel and compassion to those in need around the world
Clean Water Projects
Through our partnership with New Dawn Communities, we help provide access to clean water in rural communities across Kenya and Tanzania, transforming lives and bringing hope to families.
Community Outreach
Our mission teams distribute essential supplies, food, and aid to communities in need throughout Mexico, the Philippines, and South America — meeting physical needs while sharing the love of Christ.
Service Times
Join us for worship and fellowship
Sunday Worship
Our main worship service with contemporary and traditional music, prayer, and a message from God's Word. Bilingual service in English and Spanish.
Wednesday Bible Study
Midweek gathering for in-depth Bible study, prayer, and community. All are welcome to grow deeper in their faith.
Youth Group
A vibrant gathering for teens and young adults with worship, games, teaching, and small group discussions.
Our Location
708 Avenida De La Estrella, San Clemente, CA 92672
Contact Us
We'd love to hear from you