We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Bob Roberts to Long Beach as our 2025 Pastor in Residence!

Early in COVID, the Long Beach Church Collective recognized just how heavy the call to pastor had become. Together with local churches and generous partners, we launched the Pastor in Residence initiative—an annual rhythm of inviting seasoned leaders to pour into Long Beach pastors with wisdom, resilience, and hope.

Over the past three years, we’ve welcomed leaders like Rich Villodas (deep formation for ministry), Glenn Packiam (resilience and intentional living), and Kenneth Ulmer (finishing well and the challenges of transition). Each has brought encouragement, perspective, and practical guidance for the unique burdens pastors carry.

Now, in 2025, we’re honored to host Dr. Bob Roberts. Bob brings with him four decades of pastoral experience. He planted a Southern Baptist church in Dallas that grew into a thriving megachurch, went on to help plant more than 200 churches worldwide, and founded a global church planting network.

As Bob began forming deep friendships around the world, he discovered how much he still had to learn. Though his theology has always been deeply rooted in conservative convictions, his approach to ministry has evolved. He realized the challenge isn’t in what Jesus taught, but how we live it out in today’s complex and connected world.

In recent years, Bob has focused his ministry on living out faith in the public square—demonstrating that strong theological conviction doesn’t have to put us in opposition to others. His story and wisdom offer a timely invitation for pastors and leaders in Long Beach: to pursue deep conviction with humility, and to rediscover the hope of ministry together.

Join us for a special Pastor in Residence Lunch with Dr. Bob Roberts on Tuesday, September 30, from 12–2pm at Antioch Church in downtown Long Beach. Tickets are $25, or reserve a table for 8 for $150.

Learning from Dr. Bob Roberts: Peacemaking and Discipleship

By Long Beach Church Collective

Learning from Dr. Bob Roberts: Peacemaking and Discipleship

2025 Pastor in Residence Lunch