I so Love this church i love what i do , operating camera. Hopefully i can rejoin choir . The cafe - bookstore is so relaxing to shop and have a cup of coffee . read more

I attended on 7/19/26. It's a beautiful church with kind people. That for me was where the positives ended. The service was hosted by Christine Caine, in which she tied numbers 27 to the women's suffrage movement. Instead of making it about what it's actually about: God's character, his justice, and his attentiveness to the needs of his people. She instead took us on a nonsensical journey of women's suffrage. Based on the Bible, Christine Cain should not have an authoritative teaching position over men. Based on her teachings today, she should not have that over women either. She is misguided, and I pray that she finds a firmer foundation in Jesus instead of progressive politics. This rebuke is from somebody who loves Jesus and thinks the word of God is authoritative. I will pray that your church finds a more biblical outlook. Maybe just stick to the Gospel instead of very incoherent ramblings. It's been a long time since I've been in a church service where I felt challenged by the Holy Spirit to get up and walk out in the middle of the service risking embarrassment in which I did. I hope you take this rebuke seriously from someone who loves Jesus and and loves you. read more

RE - MARINERS NORTH IRVINE CAMPUS - Short summary - Decent church for families, not the best church for progressive, independent thinking adults and new Christians: To provide context for this review, I'm writing this not in an attempt to embarrass church leadership or be passive aggressive, but rather, to share an authentic, truthful and vulnerable experience that allows others to come to their own conclusions about whether Mariners North Irvine would be a good fit for them. As I write this, I am a female in my thirties, I am relatively new in my Christian journey, not entirely familiar with the Bible, college-educated, and progressive-leaning. I had left a previous church in Irvine that I felt wasn't entirely welcoming, and to this church's credit, I felt very loved, seen, and supported during Rooted and during the coming months. I had objections and doubts about the Bible and the faith, but Pastors Steve and John made themselves available to answer questions and provided enough reassurance for me to believe that I could work through my doubts. I also felt that the leaders of my Rooted group (which later became a life group) were very caring and affirming, and due to everyone's support, I became very committed to Mariners Church and the Christian faith. Unfortunately, my time at Mariners North Irvine did not have a happy ending. Several months after Rooted ended, I started to experience doubts about the faith and issues with the content of sermons or the content of the Bible that I didn't feel could be properly addressed in Life Group meetings, and some objections and frustrations I shared about hard topics (genocide in the Old Testament, LGBTQ+ issues, dangers associated with the Great Commission) were met with dismissive or passive aggressive responses. I realized that the culture at this particular church, or at least the design of their Life Groups may not have been suited for people who were seeking rigorous discussion and answers about challenging issues related to faith and that certain people who the church allowed to lead these groups, even if they were well intentioned, may not have been trained to handle these situations or respond appropriately to a believer's doubts or authenticity. At a prior church I attended (The Village Church of Irvine), one of the leaders of the small group I was in had a degree in apologetics, and they devoted a section of time at the end of group meetings specifically to discussing heavy subjects. Some members of the group genuinely enjoyed discussing these challenging topics and appreciated hard questions. While that church was not perfect, I appreciated that at least there were opportunities to have rigorous discussions for people who wanted to explore the faith at a deeper level or seek guidance from other believers on hard issues without judgment. The population at this church is primarily Asian and family oriented (I can say this because I am Asian myself) and I got the general impression this church would be fine for families and people who are willing to uphold the status quo, but it would not be a friendly place for anyone who is a deeply critical thinker, seeking diversity in a community, needs a better intellectual or deeper understanding of Christianity, single and looking to meet other singles, or is sympathetic to the LGBTQ+ community and their causes. I am not saying that the people and the leaders at this church are not good people, but at the end of the day, I sadly felt that this church could not meet me in my current season of faith, was not a good fit for my intellectual needs or progressive leanings, and could not offer me the kind of diverse community and long term support I may have needed to get through my doubts. read more

I love Mariners Church! We started attended during Covid times when in our immediate area of South OC didn't feel comfortable with attending church in person. I really appreciate the diversity at Mariners, the large campus with different areas you can choose to worship indoors or outdoors. I love that during each holiday they have different photo ops areas and events to enjoy after Saturday night service. They have Saturday 4pm, 5:30pm service and Sundays 8:30am, 10am, 11:30am. My 11 yo just got baptized at Mariners through his own wishes this past summer! My 16 yo has been attending here with his friends over the past years and has volunteered in the kids ministry this past year. I love that both my boys are growing with different leaders they are exposed to. What I love most is personally is the amazing worship sessions inside the chapel as the acoustics are incredible. I love the worship nights they host and how they have different ministry's for everyone. Lastly, I like that I don't feel obligated to connect with people. People are definitely friendship and welcoming but not pushy. I love pastor Eric's messages, they are personable and relatable to me. This is the most beautiful church I have ever been to. read more

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I had a really disappointing experience of Mariners Church. The first time I ever came, the pastor talked for nearly 20 minutes about how they didn't hit their financial quota (mind you, they had received at least $10 million dollars which were displayed in progress charts on the screens). The pastor then went on to say "For some of you in here, donating $1 million is so small it's like donating $10. We need this to build our new expansion of the campus" When I come to Church, I want to worship Jesus. I don't want to be given a lecture on the Church's financial position. To me, it felt like the leaders of the Church were ungrateful for the tens of millions of dollars they already received and were fully money driven, but I brushed it aside and tried my best to overlook this first impression. I continued giving Mariners a chance and some of their worship services were really good. Later on, I joined Rooted with my fiancé. We asked to be placed in the same group so we could experience it together. The staff was very rude to us hearing our request and immediately said this wasn't allowed, we had to be married to be in the same learning group. So we left and didn't go back to another Rooted session as it completely rubbed us the wrong way. Finally, at one of the services we attended, we were through the Cleansing of The Temple story in the Bible. This story talks about how Jesus drove merchants and money changers out of the Temple in Jerusalem. People had turned this sacred space into a bustling, profitable marketplace, which Jesus declared that his Father's house should be a house of prayer for all nations, rather than a place of business. However, the Pastor brought in a counterargument saying "Well isn't Mariners Church doing the exact same thing that Jesus said not to do?" Given they have bookstores, cafes, a boutique, etc. on their campus? And the Pastor rebuttals his counterargument with "Well no, because we don't sell anything while service is going on". Through my multiple negative experiences of Mariners, I'm really sad to say that I can no longer support attending this Church for the time being. I pray that this Church will be better. read more

Pleasantly surprised by this megachurch. They're very organized and well resourced but also stick to teaching the Bible. Would go again! read more

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Amazing church and campus. This church can seat a lot of people comfortably. They have cushioned stadium seats and a great sound system. The atmosphere here is electric. Lots of young people in the church so it's growing. I really enjoy my time every time I come here. Happy Yelping! read more

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Love this church, it's so amazing, Eric & the music is outstanding ,, uplifting & spiritual, thank you Mariners church

I've always loved this church, which is why it was so disappointing to be asked to leave on Easter Sunday. Our toddler made a few soft-spoken sounds during the service, and we, along with others, were asked to leave because of it. What made it even more disheartening was that I had brought my elderly father all the way from over half an hour away, only for us to be escorted out shortly after arriving. It was a deeply discouraging experience on a day meant for celebration, community, and grace. I could understand if my toddler had been throwing a tantrum or truly disrupting the service, but that wasn't the case. Most of the people around us actually found it refreshing and sweet--our child was very quiet and only made a few soft sounds. It was especially disheartening because it was the first time attending for two of our family members, and unfortunately, their experience left them feeling disappointed. The staff blamed the pastor and said he doesn't like any noise. My recommendation would be to have no children allowed in the main area so to not to be felt abandoned. read more

I feel very welcomed at this church. Everything is organized! From the parking to being seated in the worship center. I feel comfortable here. read more

Great church, pastor Eric is a masterful communicator & teacher. He is "cooler" then your avg bear. He a southern dude we are lucky to have. I have been going here 13 years. The congregation is diverse, both ethnically & politically...for example, I am a liberal dem and no one has killed me yet. haha. read more

Our family of 4 loves Mariners Irvine! Our 7 and 3 year old LOVE their kids classes/ministries. My daughter has a huge blast every summer at their VBS. Their kids ministries are 10 out of 10! My husband and I love Pastor Eric and his style of teaching. We also love the other Pastors. Mariners culture is welcoming and kind. Worship at Mariners is amazing! Thank you to all the Worship teams! We love praise and worship inside the main building before church services, I feel the Holy Spirit overwhelmingly every time We love that there is Saturday evening and Sunday morning services. Mariners constantly holds fun family events so that you can meet other families that attend. Thank you Mariners and every leader/server, we love and appreciate you all. read more

The best church in the OC! Amazing worship, kids group, small groups etc. I started going there 30 years ago and it's been amazing.

I love Mariners Church! BUT, I was so disappointed yesterday night. The employee there came up to me and said "can you keep your toddler quiet?" "Im gonna ask you if can please go to the family room". I was never approached that way specifically during church. I hope they can find new ways the employees can learn how to approach a situation like that. My whole family got up and left during the middle of the services. They should let people know that the main room ISN'T for kids. read more

Unwelcome to be here despite a nice campus. Poor set of procedures set by staff & ushers. Too much hypocritical actions such as discrimination based on how I dress up nor look. In addition of insult, preaching was too hype along with rest of service. Worship blasting loud with many lights displayed yo distract. Pastoral team don't care to reach out helping if in need. Rather, all be money over people. So many problems to list out. The top plus rest of them working needs to take responsibility and repent. More surely an actual show and business than a real church alone. read more

Mariners Church - Churches Near Me - Irvine, California

My husband and I were in search of a church. I attended a Beth Moore event here years ago, and was excited to bring my husband to check it out. We've been here ever since. It's a big church, and yet we feel so connected. The kids program is awesome, and our grandkids can't wait to come every Sunday. They cater to families of all type, and welcome them all. Our Pastor Eric is down to earth, funny, and relatable. The worship music is off the charts. We couldn't be happier! read more

This church is a horrible member of the community. They are a horrible massive noise disturbances daily. They have all out rock concerts everyday while being in a residential area. They simply do not care about how much they disturb their neighbors. They are very selfish people. read more

As I was leaving the church today I just didn't feel good about it, didn't feel loved or welcomed when I left, but at the time couldn't figure out what was making me feel out of place. I got home and reviewed what other visitors had said about Mariners and it clicked! The feeling I had when I left the church was a message from God - don't go back, that's not my church! There was no love sprouting from this church, nor warmth. So many churches say "build big and the people will follow." Not true. Build big and you lose the intimacy and humble purpose and annointedness of the pastors and congregation. I've seen this happen over and over again across many churches in recent decades. To build large is the Disney approach where no one is truly known or found. What I found disappointing about Mariners today in particular was the very cliche "Newport Beach" superficial vibe I felt. There was a lady in front of me welcoming everyone from 30 feet away when I was right in front of her ready to be welcomed - talk about awkward and unwelcomed. They think they are connecting with you but they are just doing their show, not their heart. They don't connect with their own I get the feeling. It's unfortunate but the bigger the church goes, the more it turns out like this. Going back to my small but mighty and loving gospel church. Bye bye read more

My family didn't feel welcome here. Don't come with kids or babies. They will almost right away ask you to leave, block the door so you don't come in with your baby. Almost all staff acted annoyed with our kids, when getting coffee, when walking past the staff, as if they are not used to having any kids in services. read more

Mariners is a beautiful church, especially during Christmas. When we came here last week, everything was being set up for their holiday program. Volunteers were setting up for their midweek youth and adult services. The far parking lot had two screens for the kids and their families to watch movies (like a drive-in theater). The outdoor auditorium had the church band set up, and they were playing Christmas music. The lights were wonderful. I've been to the church several times, and the services were good. This church location has a lovely campus. Although people weren't especially friendly, I've heard they have a lot of small groups to get involved in here. Mariners really goes all out for Christmas. This is definitely a church I'd check out if I lived in the area! read more

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Be careful what you share in the Rooted bible class. The group facilitators who conduct the groups do NOT keep your information confidential. I was in a group conducted by S.S. and she ended up telling other church employees very sensitive and private information I opened up about in my group. I've been trying to get ahold of HR at the church or the head pastor but have been unsuccessful. I definitely want to know what the HIPAA laws are regarding private information. read more

Hello - and thank you for reading my review! During the virus (when others shut down) this church was open to share God's Word to His people. I consistently attend and volunteer. The church is transparent and welcoming. I am particularly touched by Pastor Eric Geiger's biblically-based teaching. I encourage those potentially dissuaded by a minority of negative "Yelp" reviews to visit and discover for themselves. God's Word will speak to those who ask. God Bless ... Ken Smith read more

Mariners Church - Saturday's 4:00 pm service ... my favorite! - Churches Near Me - Irvine, California

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Trying to find a church home and visiting churches in the area. I wasn't welcomed, acknowledged, and couldn't even find the main entrance. I had to ask people leaving in the parking lot where to go. Once inside I found a table with a gentleman to get a bulletin. Told him it was my first visit ... he said "ok" and walked away. Music was a great presentation. Sat myself down in the back row. Still no one had spoken to me.... Not one. Left in the middle of service which I've never done in 50 yrs, and I'm an ordained minister. I felt like I was at a concert other than church with a bunch of strangers. Surrounded by thousands but feeling alone. read more

Wonderful community of peopke. I recommend the church. Eric has a solid heart but I wish he were more accessible. It must be difficult to satisfy many thousands of individual requests. We had been trying to reach out to him about a very important issue in the church, and he's never responded despite our involvement in the church our time and devotion. Go and immerse oneself in the wonderful atmosphere. It will heal you. read more

I love the service, the community, the programs they have to help others, and enjoyed serving our church by helping one and other.

Pastor Eric is way too corporate/marketing driven which is very off putting, despite what I'm sure are good intentions. I'll leave it at that. read more

Amazing church! Funny, interesting and inspiring message. Well thought out. Speaker pastor was informative, based out of the bible, funny, entertaining and just awesome. Read quotes from the scripture to support his message. Music was good. Kids classes have a great system for drop off - efficient and secure. Toys snd clean classrooms. Kids area has a cute space the kids go for group lessons and music that has a sound system and lights. Looks like it will be fun for them. They have an interpreter in sign language in the adult area. Sound system on point. Videos of the speaker so you can see better. Simple but modern decor. Clean seats and campus. They have an area for families where you can sit in adult service with your kids if you like. Welcoming booths for info. When I asked where things were, people didnt just point it out they took me to the right location- 3 times. They have sweet high school kids with signs that say we're happy you're here. Chill vibes on how people are dressed. Welcoming people who are volunteers everywhere. Nice crowd of people. Lots of volunteer opportunities and they did a whole drive to being supplies for LA fires recently. When we dropped of items, the guy received them and said THANKS so gracefully. There are buddies for kids with different needs or abilities so their parents can go to church and their child can attend without a worry. Free coffee and donuts hahah. I think they covered every single thing you could ever want expect or need from a church! Overall, 10/10 experience. Love it! read more

Such a great community! This church is beautiful inside and out. The ministry is so welcoming. Highly recommend checking it out on Saturdays and Sundays! read more

Mariners Church - Chapel and lake - Churches Near Me - Irvine, California

Bible centric church with abundant resources, I am surprised to see other reviewers' complains.

This church has changed my life in so many ways. Whoever commented the church needs to take accountability from the top down or isn't functioning well with a long list of problems has CLEARLY never been involved with the people of Mariners Irvine. Everyone from the senior pastors, elders, college team, women's team, rooted, Bible study teams and kids coordinators are total bosses on fire for Christ who spread nothing but love and wisdom. The church is generous, very transparent, and completely Bible-based. They don't create overarching themes and attach scripture to make their point they do deep dives into the word of the Lord mostly by book and they give workbooks to everyone for free to keep. We read each verse and dissect each passage together and pastor Eric is amazing at his job. If you want a church that can give you faith-based relationships, community, and care for your relationship with Christ and wellbeing Mariners is for you! read more

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It is an extremely welcoming campus and there is something for everyone. Life groups, support groups, volunteering opportunities and so much more. The weekend sermons are fabulous. Pastor Eric Geiger is one of the most engaging and thoughtful teachers. read more

So grieved by the direction of Mariners church under Eric. It has gone significantly downhill. Cultural references used instead of scripture, the push of tithing money as a priority, and Bible verses used out of context. Eric talks about his High school and college years, nothing about his walk with God as an adult. Unrelatable examples of his life to the Bible when you hear about his childhood when so many need to see how the Bible relates to us as ADULTS TODAY! It is clear he doesn't know what he's talking about. He is very business oriented rather than a steward of the people at the church. It is all about the numbers of who is attending, who signed up for volunteering after his alter call after services. It shouldn't be about that. What about those who are being touched by God, getting set free? This place has become a spiritual graveyard! Please don't go here! It's deceiving seeing all of their services and beautiful campus, but it's truly not enough especially if you desire closeness with God. They have lots of fun events with everyone there still feeling empty and unsure why. The church does not teach repentance upon salvation. Just ask Jesus into your heart and you're in! Not biblical at all!! There isn't any room for the Holy Spirit to move there. It's so sad. No freedom, nobody getting healed, nothing happening except keeping this mega church debt free, as they announced a few months ago. So many are suffering in this inflated economy, the church shouldn't be bragging about things like that. The Rock in Anaheim is a fantastic BIBLE BASED church in the area. Highly recommend it to those looking to understand and use the Bible for today! I'm praying that Mariners church wakes up! read more

Great place to Worship! The Truth of the Bible is Taught! Great ministry opportunities!

The most amazing Church I have attended. Kinda staff, clean and absolutely beautiful. Thank you guys so much. Saturday service at 4pm was great, can't wait to be back with friends and family :)) god bless read more

The church feels like it's run by a marketing team instead of Biblical Intellectuals. Also the music is so loud and poorly mixed. It seems like all those on stage are trying to draw attention to themselves than God. The Pastor (Eric) seems more like a corporate salesman than a Bible Teacher Also, it strange that they want people to volunteer for various outreach ministries but don't have the organizational skill to manage volunteers. read more

This church is just okay. This is definitely a mega church so it's nearly impossible to get connected and plugged. I went to their first Thursday night for young adults and it was the size of a regular church service. If you like churches where no one knows you this is the church for you. read more

Wow. Amazing church, after my first visit, it's ginormous with good preaching and teaching. The lead pastor is a phenomenal speaker and teacher. Seemed very organized and supportive. They had so many buildings and so much to offer on their campus I was mesmerized. I've been in hundreds of churches all over the world but have NEVER seen anything like this! read more

Best church ever! It took me three years to find my home church and I got baptized here! I heard a lot horror church stories and this place used to be definitely not it lol! I recently joined rooted group and I'm loving it so far! Pastor Eric and Dallas both really chill and funny! read more

Thank you Jesus for Mariners. From Medical school to residency I have been with this church. The messages always inspire and water your growth. Prayer team has helped me with my faith at many junctures others said was impossible. The power of God lives in this place and it will move you. read more

Mariners Church - Chapel - Churches Near Me - Irvine, California

This is the BEST church I have ever been to in my entire 21 years of my life. First of all, the worship is AMAZING. They play both older and new songs, as well as light and upbeat songs. They occasionally have a choir, and on special occasions have a kids choir. Second, the pastors are so so kind and inclusive (shoutout pastor DK, Eric, Kenton and Doug)! They truly invite everyone and make everyone feel welcome in this church regardless of religious affiliation, gender, or sexual orientation (that being said, they do still teach traditional christian values). They also almost always have community volunteer opportunities. Third, the actual campus is beyond beautiful. They have a thrift store, childrens play center, a chapel, a cafe/book store and multiple rooms for extra activities. They have a beautiful pond for baptizing and a seperate pond for aesthetics. They also have a huge lawn where kids play before/after service and where they host events every now and then. Not the mention the actual worship center where service is held. Everytime I bring friends over, they always are amazing by how big and beautiful it is. Fourth, their college ministry is great! It is run by Pastor Bang and he is truly perfect for the college-aged kids. They talk about relevant topics and they are not afraid to be asked hard questions. They really focus on community. And it was so kind of them to provide food for all the college kids for over a month straight (after every sunday service and at a lot of the college events). They also provide rides for college students every sunday service at 11:30! This is an amazing place to go to. They also offer services on saturday and sunday (multiple on sunday). And a majority of the time they also offer little finger foods (cookies, mints, coffee). They also upload and stream their services online, so if you do miss a service, you can always catch up online on the Mariner's website. TLDR; this place is so hard to describe on paper because it is so beautiful. read more

Mariners Church - The cross at the worship center. Was on campus for a college christmas party! - Churches Near Me - Irvine, California