Fallbrook United Methodist Church welcomes new pastor

FALLBROOK – The Fallbrook United Methodist Church (FUMC) held a welcome luncheon for it's new pastor, Melissa Rusler, on Sunday, July 12.

Church members enjoyed a Italian feast catered by Vince’s Italian Restaurant, topped off by dessert cake provided by FUMC Hispanic Ministries, and summer fruits and petite fours donated by friends of FUMC.

Pastor Rusler is originally from Columbus, Ohio but moved to Southern California at the age of 11 where she later graduated from Costa Mesa High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in religious studies from UC Riverside and master’s degree from Claremont School of Theology. Serving in full-time ministry for 19 years, she most recently came to Fallbrook United Methodist Church from Christ Church by the Sea in Newport Beach.

Married to Eric Rusler, the couple are parents to a blended family of five children. Her passions in ministry are preaching the good news of the love of God in Christ; sharing the sacraments of holy communion and baptism; teaching and participating in Bible study; while also encouraging others to use their God-given gifts and talents to serve God and others.

Pastor Rusler enjoys prayer, reading, time on the beach, and traveling near and far with family and friends. Some of her favorite hobbies are camping, fishing, hiking, canoeing, running (especially half and full marathons) and music of all types.