Christ the King Lutheran Church began in 1983 when a group of faithful people in Fallbrook felt called to establish a new Lutheran congregation affiliated with the American Lutheran Church. With a shared

vision for worship, fellowship and service, these founding members began gathering for worship in local schools while they worked toward establishing a

permanent home for the growing congregation.

In 1987, that vision became a reality when the church building at 1620 S. Stage Coach Lane was completed. Pastor Don Bankson served as Christ the King’s

founding pastor and faithfully led the congregation through its formative years until 1989.

Pastor John Spann served as interim pastor in 1989 before Pastor Phil Tukua was called to serve as pastor in 1990. As the congregation continued to grow, Pastor Magnus Egge joined Pastor Phil as a volunteer pastor in the early 1990s, providing additional pastoral care and ministry support. Together, they helped guide Christ the King through an important season of growth and development.

Over the next two decades, Christ the King continued to grow in both membership and ministry. New staff members and ministry positions were added as the congregation expanded its reach and opportunities to serve. In 1996, Pastor Mark Johnson was called to serve as associate pastor, beginning a significant chapter in the life of Christ the King.

In 2011, both Pastor Phil Tukua and Pastor Magnus Egge retired from active ministry. Pastor Mark Johnson then took on the role of senior pastor,

continuing to lead the congregation through another season of growth and transition. In July 2012, Pastor Kenneth Davis was called to serve as associate

pastor. Pastor Davis served Christ the King until 2016, when he accepted a call to serve another congregation.

In December 2017, Pastor Steve Gilbertson joined Christ the King as interim associate pastor. He served faithfully until his unexpected passing in September 2020, leaving a lasting legacy of love and service within the congregation. In November 2020, Pastor Mike Anderson was called to serve as associate pastor, continuing the church’s commitment to pastoral care and ministry.

In 2022, after more than 25 years of faithful service to Christ the King, Pastor Mark Johnson accepted a call to serve a congregation in Arizona. The following year, in December 2023, Pastor Brandon Way was ordained and called to serve as the Lead Pastor of Christ the King.

Through every season of change, growth and transition, God has remained faithful to Christ

the King. From a small group of people worshiping together in local schools to a thriving congregation serving the Fallbrook community and beyond, our

history is a testimony to God’s provision and the faithfulness of generations of pastors, members and ministry leaders.

As we look toward the future, we give thanks for those who came before us and for the foundation they established. We continue to trust God to lead Christ the King into the years ahead as we live out our mission to Be and Make Disciples.