John Schaefer

John’s path to vocational ministry is unusual.  John became a Christian in high school. After he and his wife Kaetchen were married he began serving as an elder in their local church.  While simultaneously working at various Southern California police departments, which included roles as Chief of Police, John continued to serve as a lay leader in his local church.  After finishing his secular employment with a four-year term as City Manager, John retired from government service and accepted a position at EvFree Fullerton as an Assistant Executive Pastor.
In his six years on staff John performed a variety of tasks and oversaw a number of ministries.  This time also saw two Senior Pastor changes and other changes that had dramatic effects on staff and the congregation.  John also works with the Evangelical Free Church of America West District to provide retreats that strengthen leaders and provide pastoral care and coaching for Senior Pastors ( https://efca-west.districts.efca.org/bivouac ).

Seeing the hurt and trauma that so many ministry staff seem to encounter, has left John with a burden to serve those working in ministry.  His heart is to coach, mentor, encourage, help and pray for those in vocational ministry to help them not only survive vocational ministry but to lead healthy thriving churches that advance the Kingdom of God.