The Bullpen is where the relief pitchers warmup in preparation for coming into the game. They are not starting pitchers, but possess specialized skills that can be called upon should the starting pitcher run into any situation that might prevent them from completing the game on that day. Their purpose is to be prepared and wait patiently for the call of the manager that they are needed.

Some relief pitchers specialize in longer periods of relief; some are short relievers for an inning or two; and then there is the closer who is called upon in the last inning to finish the game and secure the victory.

The Lord first put this concept in my mind about five years ago. So, I began developing the counterfactual idea about what it would look like to be a relief pastor for starting pastors who needed a break from the game. It might be for a family emergency; an illness; a long overdue anniversary weekend getaway; or just a fatigue break. That is where The Pastor’s Bullpen comes in.

I’m Doctor Steve Johnson, I have been ordained with the Assemblies of God here in the Southern California District for 27 years and am a teaching pastor and professor of biblical studies and ethics. It is my passion to see Christ formed in the body of Christ.

I have been a bi-vocational pastor all of my adult life. Though I’m a retired General Contractor I am still working nights as a fulltime Class A Longshoreman down at the Port of Long Beach.

The Pastor’s Bullpen is my ministry. I am not a starting pitcher/pastor...you are. My ministry is to come out of the bullpen in relief for you. There is no set fee, we leave the offering up to you and whatever value you place upon my services.

If you are interested in me stepping in to assist you on a weekend, please email for availability or references at: PastorSteve@renovationproject.org

Pastor Steve