T. Ray Rachels

Superintendent

T. Ray Rachels was born and raised in Columbus, Georgia. He received his undergraduate education at Southeast­ern Bible College, Lakelan­d, Florida, and Troy State University, Troy, Alabama, with Graduate studies at United Theologi­cal Seminary, Dayton, Ohio; Wright State Univer­sity, Dayton, Ohio; and Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, California, and a M.A. from Vanguard University, Costa Mesa, California.

Ministerial Experience

Associate Pastor, Bethel Temple, Dayton, Ohio; Director of Youth and Christian Education for the Ohio District; Pastor, Neigh­bor­hood Church, Santa Clara, Cali­fornia; Director of Youth Ministries, Northern California/Nevada District; Pastor, Christian Life Church, Long Beach, California; Assistant Superintendent and currently Superintendent of the Southern California District Council of the Assemblies of God. Chairman, Board of Directors, Vanguard University of Southern California­, Costa Mesa, California; Chairman, Board of Directors, American Indian College, Phoenix, Arizona; Chairman, Board of Directors, Church Extension Plan.

Reverend Rachels and his wife, Judy, have three children: Scott, Lance, and Heather; two daughters-in-law, Julie and Brenda, one son-in-law, Caleb; three grand­daughters; and two grandsons.

Portfolio

  • Pastor to the pastors and ministers.
  • Overseer of the churches and all District work.
  • Bridge builder to the church boards and laity.
  • Recommender and appointer of pastors.
  • Chairman of the District and Executive Presbyteries.
  • Ministry development and formation.
  • Convener, planner and presider for all District conferences, including but not limited to the District Council, Ministers' Retreat, Sectional Business Meetings and Banquets.
  • Chairman of the Board of Vanguard University of Southern California.
  • Liaison to the Church Extension Plan.
  • District publications.
  • Administrative responsibility and oversight of the departments.
  • Preaching ministry.
  • Trouble-shooting for both churches and ministers.
  • Providing counseling to ministers and their families.
  • Presiding over business meetings for local churches and board meetings as requested or assigned.
  • Being involved in as many District events as possible.
  • Participating in out-of-district ministry as requested, including mission trips and General Council assignments.
  • Participating in District committees and social function.
  • Writing for periodicals and various publications.

Contact Information

T. Ray Rachels, Superintendent
Phone: Sherry Fessler, Executive Administrative Assistant - ext. 201
Email: trrachels@socalag.org