I moved to California a little over 4 years ago - leaving my church of about 10 years behind. It took me a long time to find that church home, and it was one of the things I knew I would miss most about my former home state. I was beyond skeptical I would find another church home...so skeptical I almost did not even start looking. Then one evening, I received a text from the youth pastor there, a good friend, just checking in from across the country to see if I was connected yet. A few minutes after my "no" reply, I got another text with a list of churches in my area and a nudge to get a move on visiting them. I knew I needed to get moving on it too - his nudge was received. I started exploring and attending services but just wasn't feeling "I'm home" with any of my visits...until Branches. One service. One time of just sitting and feeling God's presence. That's all it took. My Monday through Saturday is full. Talking with God happens all week, but there is just something about getting to Branches on Sunday. The people, the kids, the community, the slow down, the recharge...the resting in God and the calming simplicity of that. Maybe you're looking for the same thing? Hope to see you there! read more

I have been coming to Branches church now for two yrs. I just want to say how much I appreciate and LOVE this church. The people I have met are gracious, genuine people who made me feel welcome the first day and who truly love the Lord. I was really looking for a church I could call home. On that first day I knew two people. I was a little uncomfortable because I am married with children but my family does not want to attend church with me, so going alone is a bit intimidating. But the atmosphere is very relaxed and casual and I felt comfortable to just sit and listen to the message. What I love is that they teach from the Word of God and help me to see how I can apply it to my daily walk. I started volunteering just with serving coffee and donuts, and i have met so many wonderful people, young and old. Thank you Branches for giving me a place I can call home and for my new church family. read more

If you are looking for a community of people that are genuinely seeking to bring about peace not just in their own lives, but in the community as well, then Branches is a place you'll want to visit. Our family found that the community at Branches is great at welcoming people from any walk of life. There is very little pretense here. If you're looking for a country club type of church, then this probably isn't the right fit for your needs. Things at Branches are pretty raw and honest and that seems to be the very thing that is healing this community and drawing others in. This community is hungry for love, truth, and peace in the name of Jesus. So if you find yourself walking through the Dana Point Harbor on a Sunday morning, or if you're looking for a place to find a sense of belonging and purpose, then come visit Branches. read more

Branches is unlike any church I've ever been a part of. Bottomline, there are no shoulds here. Everyone is embraced and brought into community regardless of where they are in their walk of faith. It's more like a big family than anything else where the main focus is encouraging people to look at the life of Jesus so they can live and love as He did. One thing you should definitely know is that this is a hands on church and the best way to get connected in this community is to get involved. If you're looking for a place to sit back and get lost in the crowd, this definitely isn't the place for you. Prepare to be brought in, challenged and pushed out of your comfort zone, all in good ways. God is doing amazing things in this community and we can't wait for you to come check it out! read more

I have never been able to ever call a church home. But I call this church home. It is more than a church, it is a community willing do anything for each other. Even if knowing god is foreign to you, it is a sanctuary of peace. A place that is safe for anyone and everyone. You can come in your pjs. There is no judgement because there is a bit of everyone there. Come late, come early, come just as you are. It is small and intimate. My suggestion is to get involved, that is when you will see gods hand in you being there. Friendships will be made and you will grow with others like you and not alike. You will be truly blessed the minute you walk through the doors and hear the amazing worship songs and the awesome pastor. It's easy. The first step is getting there. read more

I call Branches home! My family & I have been attending Branches for quite a few years now & we consider Branches our family. We have just embarked on a long trip away from home & I miss our church family the most! Anyone is welcome - there is not fan fair & they don't expect people to have things "all together". Everyone here has their own stories & walks with Christ & we can all learn from each other. We all have a voice. I love that the pastor is open & very transparent about his family & life. There is really no sugar coating here. Just raw. I would highly recommend this church to anyone. When my family travels we always try to find the "locals" joint - well you just found it... authentic Christ followers. read more

Branches let me get plugged in quickly. I filled out a Communication Card the first time I came asking to volunteer and within three weeks I was helping in the pre-school room (after passing a background check of course). The leadership staff took personal interest in me--regularly texted me and took me out for coffee. Compared to large churches, this was a refreshing experience. I'm sad to move away from Orange County and Branches, but I know I always have a home to return to. P.S. The worship band kind of sounds like Mumford & Sons. You decide if that's a good thing or a bad thing. read more

Feel very blessed to be part of such a caring and active community at Branches. It is more on the smaller side of churches from a number standpoint but I believe that is part of its strength. It's easy for people to get to know one another and get involved in making a difference. There are plenty of available programs, small groups, youth groups, ministries, social outings, and community outreach opportunities. Pastor Boog and staff sharing the good news and the incredible worship music team down at the harbor is a nice way to spend your Sunday. read more

I moved to California for school and found myself feeling like a stranger in strange lands. The folks at Branches were nothing but kind to me. The community is very inclusive and participatory, and within a few weeks I was asked to share my skills as a musician and help the kids in worship. Once I started hanging with the kids, I was really hooked! I feel as though I was the one being ministered to. The community poured back into me such positivity and rejuvenating love. If that's not your thing, they also have donuts and coffee! read more

Branches Church is my family. It is a place where anyone can come and feel a true sense of community. I came at a time when I needed this, especially with people that were at my stage of life. Not only did I meet people that fit into that category, my expectations were met above and beyond. Branches is a place that is filled with people that truly love the way that God intended it to be. I recommend it to anyone looking for a good community! Your expectations will be met above and beyond like mine. read more

Branches is family to me. People are welcome to come as they are. My favorite story to share is from when I invited a dear friend to attend with me. She had a clear expectation of how "church" should run and of course had a list of pros and cons to share with me after. And then she said this... "there's no denying God was in that place" That pretty much sums it up for me; I'm grateful to have a community centered around Christ. read more

This is a community of people who truly love the Lord and live it together. My wife and I have grown up in the area our whole lives, fell away from many churches for different reasons, but are now home. Walking in those doors the first time, we felt home. It is laid back, it's not perfect all the time, but the most important thing I get, is the presence of God through his people. read more

Been going to Branches a little more than a year. Excellent and relevant bible-based teaching. I like the fact is is so diverse and authentic. The demographic is young (although there are people there if all ages) and there is a lot of energy. Feels like a big family! Blessed to have found this church. If you're looking check it out. read more

I've been an active member of Branches for over 4 years. I have grown so much in my faith by serving, developing friendships, and being vulnerable/taking risks that I normally wouldn't take. My kids, and I feel at home at Branches. It's my favorite time of the week. I'm very grateful for the love and support I feel there. read more

Such a great church! Very relaxed. Focused on Christian spirituality and the soul. Not judgemental. Definitely a surf friendly culture. If your looking for fancy light shows and bling... not the church for you. Looking for a culture of acceptance, learning and growth this is your spot. Wear your flip flops. read more

My family and I love this church! It is a great place to be on Sundays. We feel cared for each Sunday. Our kids LOVE to be in the childrens area as they feel loved and have a ton of fun. We love the Branches community and the easy going nature of it. We are here to stay! read more

This is what real family looks like! This church is warm, unpretentious and puts Christ first. If church had looked like this when I was growing up I would've watched a lot less football on Sundays. And the donuts are exquisite. ;) read more

This is one of the most welcoming churches I've ever been to. The sense of community is nothing like any other church I've been to. If you are at all curious, come check it out on a Sunday in the harbor. read more

It's taken my family many years to find a church where my everyone feels comfortable. Branches is that place. It is a great laid back, casual and welcoming vibe for every one. Drop-in and check it out! read more