Rock Harbor Church
Pastor Brandon Holthaus’ call to start Rock Harbor Church was birthed from the scriptures of Revelation 3:7-13 and Matthew 25:14-30. Jesus Christ had opened the door of opportunity to start a new church, and Pastor Brandon wanted to be like the faithful servants who used what the Lord had given them to further the Gospel. On August 28th, 2011, Rock Harbor Church was born and continues the proclamation of the Gospel today. We believe that Rock Harbor Church just didn’t happen, but that the LORD planted us in this area of Bakersfield for a specific reason. Our mission is simple and it guides everything we do: Love God, Love People, Share Jesus, Make Disciples. This mission is uniquely different compared to what the world offers to people. Our church offers what people need instead of what they think they want.
Rock Harbor Academy
When Rock Harbor Church was established, Pastor Brandon Holthaus had the aspiration to open a school dedicated to building a strong, Biblical worldview aligned to the same mission and vision as the church. At that time, the door was not open to proceed, as the church was meeting in rented venues. Rock Harbor Church started a building campaign in 2019. As the campaign was underway, preparations for Rock Harbor Academy began. By the grace of God, Rock Harbor Church held their inaugural service in the new building on August 27, 2023. Rock Harbor Academy will open its doors in August 2024. Rock Harbor Church and Rock Harbor Academy will work symbiotically to love God, love people, share Jesus, and make disciples.
The meaning of the name: Rock Harbor
The Scripture portrays Jesus Christ as our rock of salvation. (1 Cor 10:1-4) We build our lives on the foundation of the rock of Christ. (1 Cor 3:10-15) The Scripture also indicates that like an anchor holding a ship safely in position, our hope in Christ guarantees our safety in the dangerous ocean of life. (Hebrews 6:19) Christ is our strength and safety in this world so we anchor our souls to the Rock of Christ.