Don Shoemaker, pastor of Grace Community Church, a Grace Brethren church in Seal Beach, was featured on the front page of the Seal Beach Sun on February 12. He is celebrating his 25th year as pastor of the church.
The article notes that Sunday, February 22, was set aside as a day of celebration “hosted by the men, women, and children who make up Grace Community Church to honor their pastor during the worship service.” A tribute dinner will be held in March at an area restaurant.
Pastor Don and his wife Mary have attended the church since 1977 and he served as organist, worship leader, and member of the board of elders before being urged by congregational leaders to become the pastor.
The article notes that Shoemaker is quick to note the “community” in the church name. He serves as senior chaplain of the Seal Beach Police Department and it’s not unusual to find many civic events taking place at the church.
It also noted that Shoemaker speaks on issues both theological and cultural not only in his local church but nationally in speaking engagements, newspaper editorials, and other published articles. (He serves as chair of the Social Concerns Committee in the Fellowship of Grace Brethren Churches.)