Life has a roadmap—but some of us have never found it, while others have lost their way. Many of us are carrying heavy burdens, while others are simply looking for clarity, growth, or deeper meaning. Wherever you find yourself, this is a place to discover truth, practical next steps, and a way forward shaped by hope. Here, you’ll find guidance for real life — leading toward growth, peace, joy, and purpose — no matter where you’re starting.
What’s Really Getting in the Way of a Fuller Life
Growth doesn’t stall without a reason. Sometimes it’s the weight of life’s challenges—pain, loss, pressure, or seasons we didn’t choose. Other times, it’s patterns within us—habits, beliefs, or choices that quietly pull us off course and keep us stuck. Most of us experience both. The good news is that Jesus didn’t come for people who have it all together—He came to bring hope and help to the hurting, the sick, and the lost. And when we’re willing to name what’s actually holding us back, we can begin moving forward into the life we were created for.
Some obstacles to growth aren’t dramatic or extreme—they show up in everyday life. Marriage, parenting, money, health, relationships, and cultural pressures quietly shape how we think, feel, and live. Following Jesus means learning how faith takes shape right in the middle of these realities.
Some obstacles to growth come from within. Habits, patterns, and beliefs—often formed over time—can quietly shape how we think, act, and relate to God and others. Naming them honestly is often the first step toward freedom, healing, and a transformed life.
Real and lasting change doesn’t come from trying harder or fixing yourself — it comes from encountering Jesus. He meets us with grace, truth, and power that transforms lives from the inside out. At Sonrise Church, everything we do is centered on helping people know and follow Jesus. You don’t have to figure this out alone — Jesus leads the way, and we’re here to walk with you.
Sonrise Church exists to help people know and follow Jesus. This mission shapes every part of who we are—from our weekend gatherings and family ministries to our digital presence and local partnerships.
In this short-form teaching series, we explore the core beliefs of the Christian faith - God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, the Bible, salvation, the Church, and what's to come - helping new believers build a foundation and long-time believers deepen their understanding of what we believe and why it matters.
At Sonrise, what we believe shapes everything we do—from how we worship to how we love people. Rooted in Scripture and centered on Jesus, our convictions guide our mission to help people know and follow Him in every season.
No two journeys look the same. Some people are exploring faith for the first time, others have already made decisions but want to keep growing. Wherever you are, the most important thing isn’t how far you’ve come — it’s taking the next step in front of you. This is a place to begin, recommit, or continue forward, guided by truth, community, and practices that shape real life.
Jesus welcomes you—the Savior who invites you into real life with God. Explore who He is, what He offers, and the next steps you can take to know Him personally.
Following Jesus means taking your next step with Him in real life. Find practical ways to grow through faith, spiritual practices, community, and everyday life.
You don’t have to have everything figured out to belong here. Whether you’re curious, returning, or ready to get more involved, there are simple ways to take a step at your own pace. From showing up and getting to know the community, to jumping into deeper relationships, to living out your faith in everyday life — this is a place to grow alongside others as you move forward.
Sonrise is where men get real about life. From groups that tackle work and family to events that challenge you to grow, this is your space to step into the man God made you to be.
Life throws everything at you — work, family, relationships, and more. At Sonrise, women find encouragement, connection, and faith-filled resources to thrive in every season.
Life in your 20s and 30s brings change and opportunity. At Sonrise, you’ll find real community, meaningful conversations, and space to grow in faith—wherever you’re headed.
At Sonrise, we walk alongside families to help you build Christ-centered homes where faith can grow. Whether you’re parenting little ones, raising teens, or strengthening your marriage, you’ll find programs and resources designed to support your family in every season.
For students ready to have fun, make friends, and grow in faith, this is where it happens. From middle to high school, Sonrise creates spaces where kids and teens thrive and discover purpose.
At Sonrise, we partner with parents to help kids build authentic faith and character through growing relationships with Jesus and others. From babies through 5th Grade, there is a place for your kids.
Summer Camp is one of the highlights of our year! Students will spend five unforgettable days...
FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
Change That Comes From Walking With Jesus
Following Jesus doesn’t mean instant perfection — it means steady transformation. Over time, His presence begins to reshape the way we think, respond, and live. Fear gives way to peace. Self-focus softens into love. Impatience grows into gentleness and self-control. As we walk with Jesus, He produces real fruit in our lives — growth that brings freedom, joy, faithfulness, and a deeper sense of purpose in everyday life.
Joy isn’t fleeting happiness or emotional highs — it’s a deep, steady outcome God forms in us as we follow Jesus and trust Him through every season of life.
Peace is more than the absence of conflict — it’s a Spirit-formed outcome that anchors our hearts in God’s presence and faithfulness as we follow Jesus.
Sonrise Church is a welcoming Christian church serving Santee, El Cajon, Lakeside, and the surrounding East County San Diego communities. Our mission is simple and clear: we help people know and follow Jesus. Whether you’re exploring faith for the first time, returning to church after a season away, or looking for a place to grow spiritually with others, Sonrise is a place where you can belong, ask questions, and take meaningful next steps.
As a local church rooted in Santee, we’re passionate about creating environments where people from El Cajon, Lakeside, and across East County can experience authentic community and life-giving faith. From weekend worship services and family ministries to youth gatherings, small groups, and community events, everything we do is designed to help people connect with God and with one another in practical, hope-filled ways.
If you’re searching for a church near Santee, El Cajon, or Lakeside, we invite you to experience Sonrise Church for yourself. Join us for a service, attend an upcoming event, or explore opportunities to serve and get connected. No matter where you are on your journey, you’re welcome here—and we’d love to walk with you as you discover what it means to follow Jesus together.
