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Jerry Gamboa
Lead Pastor
Impact Ministries Pastor

Jerry Gamboa is the Lead Pastor of Ridgecrest Vineyard Church, a vibrant and growing faith community located in Ridgecrest, California. As part of the founding pastoral team, Jerry, along with his wife Marybel, has been instrumental in helping establish and nurture the church alongside Dakota and Monica Andekin, the previous senior pastors. Their collaborative vision has shaped Ridgecrest Vineyard into a place where people encounter the transformative love of Christ, experience deep spiritual growth, and are empowered to live out their faith in everyday life.
Jerry’s journey in ministry began at the young age of 18 when he served as the youth leader in a thriving youth ministry in San Bernardino, CA. This early experience sparked his lifelong
passion for serving others in the name of Jesus Christ. Raised in a multi-generational family of preachers, church planters, and hymn writers, Jerry has a rich legacy of faith that has deeply influenced his calling. His father, alongside other family members, has played a significant role in shaping Jerry’s heart for ministry, emphasizing the importance of serving God’s people with authenticity, love, and commitment.
As a bi-vocational pastor, Jerry works as an engineer, bringing a unique perspective to his leadership in the church. His engineering background and expertise provide him with practical insights that he applies both in his ministry and in the church’s organizational growth. Jerry's ability to balance the demands of his professional career and pastoral responsibilities is a testament to his dedication to his calling and his deep love for the Ridgecrest community.
Jerry is highly educated, with a diverse range of academic achievements that reflect his commitment to lifelong learning and growth. He holds a Master's degree in Systems Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) in Monterey, CA, and has pursued advanced studies in Christian Education at the Latin America Theological Seminary. In addition, Jerry has completed the Advanced Biblical Leadership program at the Vineyard Leadership Institute, equipping him with the theological depth and practical leadership skills necessary to lead his congregation with wisdom and vision.
Alongside Jerry in ministry is his wife Marybel, a passionate partner who shares his vision and calling. Together, they lead the church with a heart for reaching the lost, empowering believers, and building a strong, compassionate community. Marybel has been a steadfast source of support for Jerry in both ministry and family life, and their joint leadership provides a balance of grace and strength to the church family.
Jerry and Marybel are also parents to three incredible young men—Benjamin (18), Daniel (15), and Joseph (8). Jerry's role as a father is central to his life, and he is deeply committed to raising his children in the ways of the Lord, teaching them the values of faith, service, and integrity. Despite the demands of ministry and work, Jerry finds joy in spending quality time with his family, supporting his children in their individual pursuits and passions.
A lover of coffee and a passionate follower of Jesus Christ, Jerry's faith is the foundation of all that he does. His relationship with Christ is central to his identity, and he strives to embody the love, humility, and grace of Jesus in his leadership. Jerry’s heart for the Ridgecrest community is evident in his dedication to seeing individuals grow in their faith and become active participants in God’s Kingdom.
Through Jerry’s leadership, Ridgecrest Vineyard Church has flourished as a place where people can experience authentic community, spiritual renewal, and outreach to those in need. His commitment to creating a welcoming environment where individuals can grow in their relationship with Christ, regardless of background or life situation, is a cornerstone of his ministry.
Jerry’s deep love for Jesus Christ, his dedication to the Ridgecrest community, and his multifaceted approach to ministry through his engineering career and theological training continue to inspire those around him. Together with Marybel, Jerry is building a legacy of faithfulness, service, and love that will impact generations to come.
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