This was our first regular Sunday service attended at Shadow Mountain Community Church. We've visited during their Christmas Nativity service, their 4th of July patriotic event, law enforcement funerals/celebration of life ceremonies, etc. Dr Jeremiah, his staff, their volunteers, and their congregation have always impressed us beyond our expectations. They are so welcoming to guests/first timers! They have a free gift (book) which they gift newcomers to their church. Their church, event center, cafeteria, bookstore, are all very well run! Their church campus isn't brand new yet it's maintained so well that it looks new. Smiles can be seen by everyone. We wish we lived a little closer to their main campus in El Cajon. It's evident that the leadership led by Dr Jeremiah trickles down all the way to their Sunday volunteers which can be felt by all those in attendance. We love coming here every time we have chance. read more

I come here for their summer blast VBS. They put on a great show and it's fun for the kids. The volunteers get breakfast every morning, with extra snacks and are supported well by staff. This church seems to have a family feel and the people I know who go here love it. The building is beautiful too! :) read more

Shadow Mountain Community Church - They gave out plumeria flowers during Summer Blast VBS! - Churches Near Me - El Cajon, California

David Jeremiah is a great expository of the word. 20 years ago it was a great church. The folks that made it great have died off. Now it is a mega church with uncaring pastoral and deacon staff. You can listen to Jeremiah online and attend a smaller loving church and experience good fellowship. read more

I've attended service here once with a friend and several woman's group events. Beautiful events with great worship and teaching. The members are kind and make you feel welcomed. Teaching is bible based. I will attend other events here. If I lived in this area I could see myself attending here. read more

Shadow mountain wonderful church service worship the pastor is amazing the women's and men's bubble study come praise the lord and worship at shadow mountain.please come and visit for yourself you will like it here it's a family ... read more

See all

Christmas Day morning worship of our King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Mighty God. Wonderful Counselor. Everlasting Father. Prince of Peace. God in the flesh. Thanks pastor jeremiah for preaching the truth to His glory!! And the music was magnificent!! read more

See all

First impression, this is a 'Community'. A neighbor and now good friend introduced my family to this is church. Took us around for a mini tour to give a real feel of this church community without being overwhelmed. This is church does not only offer mass but they also offer child care while you attend mass. They have a dedicated staff and system to ensure the safety of your children; check in/out system with name tags with serial number that match yours. They are very community oriented and also offer young married couple events for strength building. Church service was great, PLENTY of seating, amazing sound system and monitors so you can see and hearing the pastor with no issue. A staff who knows sign language for hearing impaired guest is also available. Overall, a great experience. Highly recommend and would definitely come back. read more

Shadow Mountain Community Church - Churches Near Me - El Cajon, California

See all

BUILD IT and they will come. I've never in my life seen a church this big with so many parishioners. I attended the tree lighting ceremony with my aunt and it was lovely but CROWDED. Thankfully we hurried out to miss the hours of traffic. It's lovely but way too big for my liking. read more

The Choir was amazing, especially the children's choir. The authenticity of the elderly pastor really hit home and the sermon left my family and I wanting more. We look forward to attending future services despite the long drive to get their, totally worth it. read more

I really enjoy listening to Pastor Jeremiah messages, but the camera operator destroys what he is saying. The camera operator seems demonized roaming around and looking around and watching people instead of focusing on the pastor and the message being spoken. I want to listen and look at Pastor David. Am Not Interested in seeing and looking at people who are attending! Fire the camera operator! read more

Mega church, Money power, Status nothing more. I feel like my life has been twisted and confused but it's time for to move on and fend to my flock. Good luck and Godbless read more

Church ushers should learn and consider the favorite places of the worshippers. Please do seat the worshippers as much as possible where they want to sit. Visitors and people who come early are entitled to the best seats, if they want them. Don't try to force (or switch seat) anyone to sit where he does not want to sit. NOTE: Pastor David Jeremiah's preaching is always great. read more

In truth, having attended Shadow Mountain Community Church (SMCC) so many times in my San Diego years I thought I had already written a review on it! Today after my first visit in six years I discovered I hadn't!! Well, here we go! Before I got started, I took a look down the thread and see some were not happy with SMCC. Well, I'll take some time to explain why all should have no fear attending this classic and first class evangelical conservative church. The first reason is because of what I wrote in my previous sentence. It's truly evangelical with focus on the teaching and sharing the true gospel of Jesus Christ and missions. These have always been the top priority of real evangelical churches in American history. It's pastor, Dr. David Jeremiah is one of the most well-known and respected pastors in the SoCal region and beyond. He's authored over 40 books and has led Turning Point Ministries for many years through broadcasting and television. This church has a huge outreach worldwide and six satellite congregations spread between Encinitas, Chula Vista, and Santee (with three in between that triangle). The church also has large Hispanic and Arabic congregations. Oh! And don't forget it sponsors a HUGE food sharing ministry to aid needs families in the area. SO. What's the problem? It seems that some still appear to think that churches should stay out of politics (though liberal churches speak politics regularly and no one seems to complain). There is nothing unbiblical about the pastor of SMCC addressing the state of our nation and the moral issues of the times. In fact, you can go further back from the 1980s, into our nation's wars, civil issues like slavery, and even the Revolutionary War to see that churches throughout history have engaged in the issues of their times. The Bible calls the church the pillar and ground of the truth. So why would it sit on the sidelines? Also, the Apostle Paul once had a leader in Acts 24 terrified and shaking in his chair when he called out issues in this leader's life and area of control. I say, you may not agree with the stance SMCC takes on candidates in election years or position on issues. But it has every right and should address them to promote righteousness and pray for this nation's leaders. To address one of the one-star reviewers: The Rev (me) doesn't have to post his credentials here on Yelp. I have them, but I earned my respect across this this community, so readers know I'm going to provide a fair review of any place I review. And all I wrote about SMCC above is fair, accurate, and far closer to the truth than any of these one-star reviews come close to offering. OK, done with that! SMCC has three weekend services. One is a Live at 5 on Saturdays and two services on Sunday mornings. You can visit its website at shadowmountain.org for all the information you need about service times, satellite churches, Sunday School time and children's ministries, and much more than I'm able to provide here. I will say that this is one of the most welcoming and friendly congregations you'll ever find (unlike what some reviewers claimed). It has a reputation for making people feel at home. By the way, it really takes about six visits to any particular church before you get a sense of what they're about. So don't try it once, visit multiple times before you decide on staying or joining. I'll tell you now that you will ALWAYS get a great sermon from Dr. Jeremiah. He's one of our best and I think when you hear him, you'll agree. Well I could write on and on, but it's your turn to visit and see for yourself! Pick up a latte at the Solid Rock Cafe and we'll meet up and talk about the church after a Sunday service when you visit! Just come visit! Recommend: HIGHEST read more

See all

Wow! What a great place! Well kept, sprawling campus! They have a cafeteria too!! Awesome!! No matter how many people are here - it doesn't feel crowded. I love that they also have security too - especially when we send our kids to camp there. Thank you security team!!! The people are positive and the vibe is great - like for real - if you're looking for a great community church, this is the spot! Have fun! read more

Pastor Jeremiah is genuine, well educated, and a wealth of information. It's a mega church because they do Gods work. Their funds/donations go to the community and spreading the gospel. read more

I've been going to Shadow Mountain for 4 years now. When we first visited, it had been our intention to "shop around" for churches after moving into San Diego. However, Shadow was the first church we visited and we never went anywhere else. Even though it's a large church, there are so many small groups for all different age groups and walks of life that turn this huge congregation into a small and tight knit community. When we were going through a real dark time in our spiritual lives, the Shadow Mountain Young Marrieds ministry wrapped their arms around us and nurtured us back to full health. Dr. Jeremiah's preaching and teaching ministry was instrumental to healing our wounded hearts. He teaches Biblically sound doctrine and always opens the Word in every service. I've been in plenty of churches where it's just felt like going through the motions or the preacher sounded good but you didn't learn a thing. Dr. Jeremiah is clear and concise and not a week goes by where I haven't deepened my relationship with God because of him. There's not a finer church in San Diego than Shadow Mountain. Oh, and not to mention all the fun events we do, like today's Father's Day classic car celebration. Over 200 cars, free popcorn and hotdogs, and lots of fun. read more

See all

This was my home church since my earliest memories. When I was 20 years old in 1994, I said I believed speaking in tongues is a gift for today (not only the 1st century) and they asked me to check the box on the form that says I did not believe in tongues before Ray Benson would baptize me (who I hardly knew and considered him an acquaintance of my parents although he kept his distance). I suppose I had learned some non-Southern Baptist Convention church doctrines in my two years at college. I don't think it was right for them to tell me to denounce that belief before they would baptize me in their church. That sounds like something a cult would do (e.g. Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, etc.). I could go on and on about things, but I think this is sufficient because it illustrates what they are all about. They are close-minded fools that care a lot about appearances and think they know something that they don't know as they make others sign off on it to be in their dumb club. Hard pass. By the way, I was "saved" at age 7 and attended seminaries for years and earned a M.A. and Ph.D. in Biblical Studies from Southern Baptist and Baptist universities. This place has a lot of serious issues and it would require books to mention them all and they would begin at Scott Memorial Baptist Church and Tim LaHaye. read more

So far this is a big, yet still friendly, church. I'm really impressed with the amount of activities they have. Pretty much anything for every taste. The messaged seem pretty relevant and the worship is modern, while still employing good use of an orchestra. They have lots of add on events here. read more

Shadow Mountain Community Church - Sanctuary - Churches Near Me - El Cajon, California

Someone posted that they allow grown men to date young children is absurd. The pastoral staff never preaches or teaches this. What people do on their own time has nothing to do with the church. They teach the bible truths and it's up to the individuals to take it to heart and follow God. The church does not police people so don't blame it. Everyone there are at different stages in their lives in their spiritual growth. Some are stunted and need further help and some are growing fast and all in between. This is a bible centered place so don't expect to hear about all paths lead to God or some higher power, and no one is a sinner stuff. Go to self realization for that. Great place to help get a start on a firm foundational teaching about Jesus and what He teaches. read more

Una impresionante experiencia latina, una iglesia que no busca que uno se adapte a las creencias y formas anglosajonas de evangelismo, la recomiendo ampliamente. read more

Nice,kind, friendly, loving people learning Bible teaching from a wonderful Pastor David Jeremiah. Felt right at home.

i've been attending services at Shadow Mountain for many years. This is a huge church and it could be labeled "Shadow Mountain Community Church starring David Jeremiah". Many people seem to worship David Jeremiah as well as Jesus. The services are on par with a professional Hollywood performance with a magnificent choir. One could call this an upbeat, feel good, pretty people, wealthy church. if you are looking for a church where you know the pastor and the pastor knows you, and there is the intimacy of a small local church, this is not the place for you. The senior pastor, David Jeremiah, is a gifted conservative high profile Baptist preacher who preaches from the Bible. This is not a LGBTQ embracing environment or one which has female pastors. I never sensed hatred or hostility to gay people, as all people are regarded as sinners ( hate the sin, not the sinner ) and in need of Jesus, but the LGBTQ agenda and the legitimizing and glamorization of the gay lifestyle is regarded as an abomination in the eyes of God. Shadow Mountain Church does lots good works like food for the poor and needy for example. The four instead of five stars are due to my eyes seeing too much of "Pastor Worship" in the congregation, and...well....it's a very large organization.... that's just me and I tend to be hyper critical. In so many ways this is a wonderful church for believers in Jesus and the Bible. read more

Totally solid Biblical teaching. Your brain hurts from learning so much! Reminds me of college! People are pretty friendly for being such a large congregation. I like that even though it's huge and everyone is trying to leave the parking lot at the same time, it runs pretty smooth and people are genuinely not trying to cut you off. I help with Awana program and summer blast (Summer Program) at this Church. These particular programs have high enrollment but the amazing staff have LOVE and Energy for the kids!! It's awesome! I currently attend a smaller church because when we lived in Charleston, SC for a short time we got spoiled knowing our Pastor and him knowing us. That doesn't happen here at Shadow Mtn. but there are plenty of opportunities to get "plugged in" with small group Bible studies and all the other amazing ample groups they have!!! Such a great campus and only getting bigger and better with the new "Generations" building. read more

See all

Love Dr. Jeremiah. The church members are very friendly and made me feel very welcome. What an amazing visit. The sermon was so good and i've ordered the cd. So good!! read more

Attended on Easter, as a family member goes to this type of service. I am giving it one star for being a very hopped up over crowded church. Another star because I was with family- that was enjoyable. It's like the American Idol of a congregation. The preacher spoke in terms of everyone being sinful, not connected to God..here is some of what they preach here: " mankind is sinful in nature and practice, is unable to save himself, and faces eternal separation from God ". This is very fear based and this disconnection from a source, high consciousness, universal energy, God, Goddess, name it what you will is completely off. To teach along the lines of, 'when you die you are just going to lie around for a while and then if you were good enough you'll go to heaven'. Fairy tale. We're energy. Fact is energy doesn't die. Energy is on a continuum, it does change form. It's just not for me, so no offense. Spirituality and science have never been separate and there is mathematics and geometry in nature. I can't agree with anyone in fear who thinks Mother Earth is here to be rid of natural resources because thats what it's here for...for us to use, strip of it's trees, animals all for human dominance sake. We're all just biding our time, us sinners who have been so disobedient (where am I in Kansas? are they going to take out the snakes now!?) ..we all are going to get the hell outa this hell when Jesus comes back. Hmmm. It was a happy Ostara day despite attending this place. read more

As a Christian young adult here in San Diego, I have been involved with the Young Adults group at Shadow Mountain for the last 5 years. The friendships I have made in this group have been such a blessing. Pastor George is such an excellent speaker and really has a heart for young adults and helping them pursue the purposes that God has for them. read more

I like this church. I wish some of the branches would stop doing things to get the entire community in trouble. One or 2 branches keep telling people who to vote for with a list of "answers" for the ballots. That would be a political campaign(lobbying) and can get the church in trouble with the IRS. Please put a stop to that, I like this church. read more

Pam and Alex were amazing!!!! The wine was AMAZING but I'm very happy to say that not only is the wine great, but the service was spectacular. Seriously one of the best experiences that I've had....go here!!!!!! read more

I had a question if anyone can answer ? Does Pastor David Jeremiah still preach at the pulpit? Just wondering ? read more

Back in 2007, I became super hungry for "meat" from God's Word (The Bible). I was tired of the self-help psychological preaching/teaching nonsense that started to plague the church... At the time, I was listening to Turning Point on KPRZ 1210 AM, and didn't realize that Dr./Pastor Jeremiah's church was in San Diego...and I enjoyed his no nonsense approach in teaching the Word of God in love and in truth - no self-help psychobabble there! So when I found out that SMCC was here in San Diego, I was super excited. Once I visited, I knew right away this was it - a home church to grow in/to be fed "meat"..substance from God's Word....If that's what you desire, then you will not be disappointed. (^__^) read more

I was incarcerated for a short period; listening to David Jeremiah and getting the message of the Gospel. When I got out I wanted to visit but because I was in jail I wasn't allow to attend. I felt a bit of confusion since the bible has a lot to say about jail and those believers who were jailed. Political correctness and fear of offending others causes them to compromise. Would Jesus even be allowed to attend? Romans 13:3 says, "Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body." The church will pray for prisoners but as long as they don't come to church! What is a ministry if you only care for those with less sin? read more

My absolute favorite church. The teaching here is solid. I always feel encouraged after attending service on Sundays. Pastor Jeremiah lays out his sermons in clear and concise ways that make it easy for anyone to understand. There are many ways to connect with people your age group or within whatever struggle you're facing. I am so thankful for this church, it truly enriches my life. My spiritual walk with the Lord has grown so much since attending here. read more

If you want to learn about the Bible and have a place where you feel welcomed or loved don't come here. I believe I have enough credibility to give a valuable comment and to justify my reasoning for this low review. I've been going here for about 4 years now. Extremely political. They make everything look like these "Christians" are perfect. I'm not anyone to say if anyone is saved or not but I do know the people who work at this church don't show the godly attributes in which we're commanded to display. The deacons or whatever they are, are not personable. It's a big cult like feeling institution. Yea, because they have money they must be doing something right, right? Even God used his enemy's for his glory. This would be a decent place if you want to hear about right wing politics but after the first 45 mins getting through the announcements and the rock concert style performance he finally gets into the word! Which is a watered down(just like his men's Bible studies) synoptic gospel reiteration. He barely ever gets into any meat. This is perfect for children who need the same message in a different way every time. The church is too scared to actually preach anything or they'll lose their money sources. Talking about money. I am not lying when I say this. This church begged for money during the pandemic!!! I still have the letters from the pastor Jeremiah (doesn't deserve being called a doctor) begging for more money!! What a shame. Go somewhere else for community and truth! Never heard the gospel here and the focus on faith in His shed blood. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 read more

I enjoy going to this church occasionally I'm just kind of surprised that the lead pastor is from another era.... so closed-minded about accepting gay people, people are born into with that, it's not like they switch or at least most all of them don't switch... Overall at the services they're very enjoyable... and I do like this church many of their services are very spectacular..... and they are known for this. They bring in a lot of really gifted talented people to sing and be part of the Church. I only attend this church occasionally sinse it is really far from San Diego, it's far east but it is definitely worth going to occasionally..... read more

My daughter, former husband and I all attended the most amazing Halloween Carnival at this church on Halloween night. It was completely free...and about 20 times more elaborate and wonderful than any Carnival I have ever attended...in my entire life. Picture this: *The fun zone at the Del Mar Fair...intact with full on professional fair rides...all completely FREE...and run by well groomed, happy looking people with full sets of teeth. *Rides for adults (Del Mar Fair rides)...as well as for children...FREE. * Horse drawn carriages....FREE. * Fire dancers, Cirque Du Soliel performers, gymnasts...all performing FREE. * Rappers....FREE. * Game booths set up...like at the Del Mar Fair...only no scoundrels running them...completely FREE. * Delicious foods....priced between $1-$2......candies galore...FREE. * Free raffle drawings for prizes (every few minutes)...including a trip for four to Disneyland! * They even had FREE shuttle trams (clean and cheerfully driven) running every few seconds...to take you to and from the parking. I was secretly thinking that Warren and his wife were probably exaggerating the quality of this event....I was completely mistaken. If anything, they were holding out on us all!....Being just a little too modest! One other note: No one...whatsoever....prostelitized to us in any form at all. Without a doubt...this was the most wonderful Halloween Event we've ever attended....anywhere. read more

This little-known East County church is actually better-known in other parts of the country and the world as the home of Dr. David Jeremiah and Turning Point Ministries. The radio program "Turning Point" is currently broadcast by over 1800 stations worldwide, and the TV broadcasts are available in most major US and European markets. Dr. Jeremiah himself has written dozens of books, contributed to many more, and is a highly sought-after speaker around the world. So why is he so popular? Because his basic premise is this: If it's in the Bible, then we need to hear it. He doesn't shy away from hard topics, like money, sex, and the end-times. And he doesn't get all doctrinal and stuffy, either. His messages are very personal and personable. He's mastered the usage of a little bit of humor to keep your attention. When I first moved here, I had no idea who he was. I've come to respect him as a man, as well as a teacher. They have 4 services on almost every weekend of the year: Saturday 5pm (contemporary) Sunday 9 and 10:45am (traditional) Sunday 6pm (varies) While the church is technically affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention, it certainly doesn't conform to the traditional stereotype of what people think of Southern Baptists. Generally speaking, they are very open, welcoming, and non-condemning in their attitude. The church is also home to a full school district (Christian Unified Schools of San Diego), as well as a undergraduate and post-graduate college and seminary. read more

It's such a sad thing when one voice out of hundreds can turn someone away from a redeeming message from God. But you Father God, are gonna know how to open this person's heart; he received a resentful unhappy person's voice out of so many thousands over so many years as the truth. guard our church and Dr. Jeremiah and each family member, in Jesus name read more

I've been here many times.. We last visited the day before Xmas night, last december for a candle light service. The Shadow Mountain Community Church is well known for its Senior Pastor Dr. David Jeremiah. His Christian broadcast "Turning Point" is televised nationwide on a weekly basis & offers insighful biblical teaching on many topics. This is not my home church, but I highly recommend this church to anyone in East County looking for strong doctrine, a gifted pastor, and great facilities and resources! Dr. Jeremiah is a captivating pastor who beautifully presents God's Word! The church is also connected to a school system for anyone looking to enroll their child or pursue an undergraduate degree of their own. This is the place you want to bring your friend to, if they have never been to church or if they haven't been back in a long time. read more

Have not been to this church since it is kind of far away in El Cajon, But I watch the televised services every Sunday morning on Channel 5. The worship music is somewhat tepid compared to the rock shows I prefer at the Rock Church in Point Loma. The worship performers seem very square to me but they do manage to warm the church crowd up for Dr. Jeremiah. It kind of puts me off to see the worship leader all gussied up in a suit and tie and the women singers look to be Mormon or Amish with the conservative way they dress. But that is okay because the Bible teaching here is so awesome and on point. I am very familiar with the Bible because for years, Pastor Miles at the Rock had us reading sections of it at a time. The reading list was put in the weekly church bulletin, which I faithfully followed. Sometimes, that Old Testament was an ordeal to get through but I knew that a good grounding in the Bible was an impetus for me to further my understanding of Christianity. That is what Dr. David Jeremiah does on a weekly basis: he EXPLAINS the Bible to the lay person in such a way as you can actually UNDERSTAND what it is all about. And this biblical teaching style of Dr. Jeremiah's is just what I am looking for when I tune in to the show at that ungodly hour on Sunday morning. I want to dig deeper into The Word--and much more so since my beloved Joel Osteen is great in his own way-- but that Houston Pastor is more for encouraging & inspiring the flock as opposed to educating it. Pastor Miles of The Rock is awesome and when he is on fire, there is no better preaching going on. His altar calls bring a flood of newbies up front to seek salvation but I just need more Bible thumpin. I get that at Shadow Mountain. Now this Doctor business is why I have to deduct 1 YELP STAR from Shadow Mountain's otherwise 5 Star Yelp. Dr, Jeremiah this morning said the Bible states to "be humble" and "not proud." Which is why I don't understand why he has to stick that "Dr." title before his name. When he hosted Tim Tebow down at Qualcom Stadium a few years ago, his Dr. designation was all over the program and plastered up on the video screens. I know that Pastor Jeremiah is erudite, educated and a Biblical expert. It is pretentious to call yourself a "Doctor" when you have not gone to Medical School & taken the hippocratic oath. But that need to pander to titles is small consequence compared to the great teaching that goes on at Shadow Mountain. It is quite a skill to be able to condense the somewhat inscrutable Bible down enough to explain it cognitively to the masses, where they can absorb the Good Word in all it's glory. 4 YELP STARS for Shadow Mountain Church. read more

A very disappointing letter arrived from the church today. It was divisive and not of love. We will not be attending this church again. A pastors duty is to protect his flock. Attacking others because of thier political party is not Christian. Didn't see a word of encouragement for those suffering from the deaths of family and friends from this deadly virus in this letter. A world pandemic with hundreds of thousands dead is nothing to be prideful about. It is irresponsible for any of us to put our families in danger. We have seen the result of pastors of churches infecting thier flock. Wow, we are in utter shock as there seems to be no concern for our safety. Who knew Christianity had anything to do with vilifying Democrats. Division is certainly not Godly or loving. Cherry picking the Bible isn't either. Jesus said to love one another above ALL else. Where's the love in this letter and in this church? I definitely wouldn't recommend this church again for Christians on a path of love and kindness. Fruit of the spirit matters.....where is it? I hope all to stay safe and send love to all suffering. This is a deadly virus we have lost friends and family from. Love and compassion is the compass....not pride. read more