Didn’t expect to find a church with such a rockin’ name here did you? This is The Rock Church. It’s more than just a name. It’s a vibrant community hub deeply rooted in San Diego. Since its founding in 2000 by Miles McPherson, The Rock Church has grown into a multi-campus megachurch. Miles McPherson, a former NFL player, traded the gridiron for the pulpit.
The Rock Church started its journey at San Diego State University. It quickly expanded. The Rock Academy opened just two years later. By 2005, construction began on their impressive new building at Liberty Station. The doors opened in 2007. The church continued expanding with North County in 2010, East County in 2013, San Ysidro in 2014, and City Heights in 2015. They even have a campus in Oahu, Hawaii.
Look around at the Point Loma campus. It is a massive 244,000 square feet. Some compare its size to Noah’s Ark. It features state-of-the-art facilities. There are Christian education spaces, offices, and a 3,500-seat worship center. This sanctuary is so large that it hosts high-profile funerals. Funerals for police officers killed in the line of duty have been held here. In times of crisis, The Rock Church steps up. During the San Diego wildfires in 2007, this campus served as a shelter and resource center.
Adjacent to The Rock Church is Rock Academy. This private Christian school serves students from preschool through 12th grade. Over 400 students attend. The building has an interesting past. It was originally built for the Navy in 1969. It was the Technical Training Building, Building 94. It had 170 classrooms and a training galley. During renovations, the southern half was demolished. The remaining structure was fully renovated to become Rock Academy.
Miles McPherson encourages his congregation to serve their communities. His book, “Do Something: Make Your Life Count,” inspires individuals to get involved. The Rock Church offers over 150 external ministries. These ministries work in prisons and homeless shelters. They also reach out to strip clubs, hospital oncology wings, and military families. In 2015, church members volunteered over 220,000 hours. Their service to San Diego was valued at an estimated $4 million.
Volunteers participate in beautification projects. In 2012, they cleaned up the Jackie Robinson YMCA. They also helped the Barrio Logan neighborhood in 2011. The church hosts large charity events. Toys for Joy is an annual December event. It provides toys, groceries, clothing, and services to families in need.
The Rock Church embodies its “Do Something Church” motto. It is committed to making a difference in San Diego and beyond. The Rock Church strives to show the world that Jesus is the hope they long for.