Grace Haven has a history of almost twenty years of ministry in Irvine. We have many American Born Chinese (ABC’s) but our congregation is not exclusively Chinese or Asian. Even though many of our members come from Chinese Background we cherish the fact that we have members from many nationalities and backgrounds. One of the best proofs of our international community is the fact that our Pastor is from India and our Lay Pastor is Steve Rodriguez. It is our vision to become an international community where many cultures and people of different backgrounds can come together as we worship the Living God and grow into his Likeness. However for those who are looking for a Chinese service, our Mandarin service starts at 11 am every Sunday which is followed by a fellowship lunch.
2. What are some of the fellowships available in the church?
Grace Haven has several fellowships and ministries that focus on meeting different age appropriate needs of our members. We do have a Children’s minister (Ruby Cheung) who leads the Children’s ministry along with several other teachers who assist her in ministering to children from toddlers to 11 years of age. Our Youth group is called UNITY youth which covers from Junior High to High school. ACTS is our college group, IMPACT is our career group which ministers to everyone between those who just finished college to those who are newly married. FAMILIES R US is our family ministry that serves all the families or couples with young children. For more information click the links on fellowships.
3. Is there a special ministry for kids, youth and college students?
Yes, as mentioned earlier there is a special ministry for most age groups because we believe that it is important to relate the gospel of Jesus Christ to every developmental stage of a person. We either use curriculum that is relevant to their age or design (custom make) an appropriate curriculum that fits best to the small group. Since we strongly believe in the power of hands on learning, we try to balance between activities and teaching sessions for better involvement and growth of our kids, youth and college students.
4. Do you have a small group exclusively for singles?
Grace Haven does not have an exclusive small group for singles at this point.
5. Does Grace Haven belong to any denomination?
IFCBC (including Grace Haven) is a member of Transformation Ministries (a God empowered movement of churches). As a church we are evangelical in our faith and practice. For more information please see what we believe.
6. What’s the schedule for Sunday worship and Sunday school for small groups?
Our Sunday worship service starts at 9:30 am and ends at 10:45 am. We have a brief time of snacks and fellowship and meet for our small groups at 11:15 am. After our Sunday school we join the Chinese Congregation in a fellowship Lunch every Sunday at 12:30 noon.
7. What kind of music is used for worship?
Grace Haven uses contemporary Christian music for worship. We are blessed with many gifted musicians and worship leaders who lead us in a variety of worship songs. We do use Hymns occasionally.
8. How do I become a member of this church?
To become a member of our church one needs to know Jesus Christ as his or her personal savior and should have declared his or her faith in Baptism. Once these requirements are met, the individuals or families are encouraged to attend the new members’ class where the Pastor will help them understand the importance of belonging to a local church and their privileges and responsibilities as members of Grace Haven. If you have already received Jesus Christ as your personal savior and are baptized, you can contact Pastor Francis for more information about membership. We have baptism and membership classes twice a year.
9. What can a visitor expect from this church?
Grace Haven is a community which seeks to make a difference and have a strong impact on all those we come in contact with. We believe that everyone who visits or comes to our church is here because God has a special plan for their lives. As a church we lovingly welcome all visitors and will do our best to make you feel at home here. It is our desire to encourage you on your spiritual journey and to help you connect with God as we worship, pray, study the word of God and fellowship with each other.
10. Who should we contact for more information about this church?
Please feel free to e-mail or call the church for more information, contact Pastor Francis: revburgula@yahoo.com or call our office at: 949 854 4005 (During office hours Tuesdays to Fridays).