Lisa Petty | Lead Pastor

Pastor Lisa is passionate about connecting with people and sharing Christ’s unconditional love. A native of San Diego, she holds a Communication degree from Cal State Fullerton, which has been invaluable in her 24 years of ministry. Her experience includes Youth and Young Adult Ministry, Long Range Planning, and Education. After earning her degree from the Iliff School of Theology in 2009, she led United Methodist congregations in Colorado and served as Lead Pastor at Christ UMC in Salt Lake City. Outside of church, Lisa enjoys walking her border collie, Ivy, sipping wine on patios, and debating topics like pineapple on pizza. She describes herself as a “completely flawed human pastor, seeking wildly after Christ, and basking in much-needed grace

Ruben Torres | Associate Pastor

Pastor Ruben is passionate about music, singing, playing guitar, piano, and preaching the word of God.He was born into a pastoral family and his parents were his first teachers and  who taught him to love God above all things. He studied at Claremont School of Technology where he completed the 5-year course of study plus two advanced courses.

  In May 2000, he arrived at Escondido UMC and has been preaching about God’s love in the community ever since. He enjoys spending time with his grandchildren and a good game of soccer.  His favorite bible chapter among many is Psalm chapter 1. 

Todd Stall | Associate Pastor

Todd is passionate about empowering church laity in ministry, discipleship, and leadership. A Southern California native, Todd holds degrees in theater from ASU and the University of Missouri – Kansas City. After a successful career with a Fortune 500 recruiting company, he shifted his focus to ministry and began his seminary journey at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, in 2022. Todd is a certified candidate for Elder ordination in the UMC and is on track to graduate from seminary in May 2025. In his free time, Todd enjoys reading, spending time with his dog Poco, and debating new ideas with Pastor Lisa—like the controversial topic of pineapple on pizza.

Jen Hawkins | Office Manager

Jen has been a part of this church for 26 years. She has volunteered in many aspects of the church, giving of her time in choir, bells, youth and children ministries. Jen has been our Office Manager for 9 years. She is efficient and makes it a priority to take time to listen to people’s concerns. Jen is an advocate for our unhoused neighbors and works with the sack lunch program.  When Jen is not in the office she enjoys making pottery, going to the beach and
enjoying time with friends.

Paul Wilson | Children & Family Ministries Lead

Paul grew up in the UMC, inspired by his grandparent’s service to the church. When he isn’t volunteering or participating in church life, you can find Paul building models, playing video games, or hanging with his community. Paul continues to seek new avenues to grow deeper in his faith and share that faith with others. He’s excited to join the team and offer support to our children and families this year as they journey in faith together.