New to the Church?

What happens on Sunday mornings?

Feel free to come as you are; there is no specific dress code to be concerned with. When you arrive, you will be warmly greeted and handed a church bulletin from one of our friendly Welcome Team members.

Before the service starts, you can enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee in the bistro. Also, in the foyer there will be hosts at the Welcome Counter who can answer any questions that you may have. You can take some time to read your bulletin, which is filled with ministry information as well as current happenings at Gateway.

The service starts with praise and worship music. After spending a minute to greet one another, and perhaps witnessing a baptism or baby dedication, Pastor Mark gives a 35-minute message. He often allows people to respond to the message through prayer or an occasional altar call. Special music is played while ushers pass offering plates to each row. If you are new to the church, you are our guest, and therefore have no obligation to give.

We would love for you to fill out a Communication Card (found in your bulletin) and place it in an offering plate so we can learn more about you. There is also space on the cards for comments or prayer requests.

After the service, we invite you to stay and fellowship with us. Thank you so much for your interest in Gateway Church. We hope to see you soon!

Where is Gateway located?

Gateway is located in El Cajon, CA. For maps and other info, check out our times and directions.

What does Gateway believe?

For our core beliefs, please check out what we believe.

What is offered for children and teenagers?

At both 8:30am and 10:15am worship services there is Sunday school for children birth through 5th grade. At the 10:15am service there is Sunday school for middle school students (6th-8th grade) and high school students as well. During the school year on Tuesday nights at 6:00pm, children and youth through high school are welcome to attend AWANA, a fun scripture memorization club.

J-Walk, the high school ministry also meets on Thursdays at 7:00pm.

How do I get involved?

Find out how to get involved.

Who's the pastor?

Pastor Mark Jappe has been the Senior Pastor at Gateway Church since 1997. He casts the vision for the church, gives most of the messages on Sunday mornings.  He loves serving the Lord with gladness and fulfilling God's call to Christian service.  You can find him at the doorway of Gateway on Tuesday evenings as he greets the children and their parents when they arrive for AWANA.  He also minister to our senior adults when they gather for their 10:00 am midweek worship service and Bible study, Wednesday @ 10.  A clear distinguishing feature of his ministry has been his love for sharing the love of Jesus around the world, fulfilling God's Great Commission of Matthew 28 to share the good news of Jesus and to make disciples.  

How can I get to know the pastor?

Pastor Mark and his wife Janet open their home regularly to new church attenders for a friendly visit. It is a time for them to get to know you better, talk about life and the church over some light refreshments.  This informal gathering called Church Chat gives you the opportunity to ask any questions you might have.  Their home is at 109 Willow Pond Road in Santee, CA 92071.  This is a casual event, and every family member is invited to attend.