Gene Appel, senior pastor of Eastside Christian Church in Anaheim, CA, first stepped into ministry as a 20‑year‑old intern at Eastside. When he returned in 2008, he sparked a new era of energy and vision. Under his leadership, Eastside has flourished, earning a place among the 100 fastest‑growing churches in America year after year.

Following in the footsteps of his late father, a pastor and Christian leader, Gene sensed God’s call to ministry at an early age. He is a graduate of Lincoln Christian University and has done additional graduate work at Hope International University, which conferred upon him an honorary Doctor of Divinity.

Widely admired for his inspiring leadership and deep compassion, Gene has guided church leaders worldwide in navigating positive change. He has authored several books and once brought his insight to television audiences as an award‑winning commentator on CBS2 in Chicago.