Leadership
Christopher Spolar
Lead Pastor
Christopher and his wife, Jenna, have always called the San Gabriel Valley home.
After earning his M.Div. from Fuller Seminary, he accepted his first pastoral position in the English ministry at a predominantly Chinese-immigrant church, where he served for over 8 years. Following a season of deep discernment and prayer, and with the blessing of his church, Christopher and his family embarked on a new chapter—planting Expressions Church. His leadership is a unique blend of passion, theological depth, and disarming joy.
Christopher and Jenna live in Monrovia with their three children, excited for the next steps in their faith journey together.
After earning his M.Div. from Fuller Seminary, he accepted his first pastoral position in the English ministry at a predominantly Chinese-immigrant church, where he served for over 8 years. Following a season of deep discernment and prayer, and with the blessing of his church, Christopher and his family embarked on a new chapter—planting Expressions Church. His leadership is a unique blend of passion, theological depth, and disarming joy.
Christopher and Jenna live in Monrovia with their three children, excited for the next steps in their faith journey together.
Pastoral Cabinet
The Pastoral Cabinet serves as an advisory body, providing prayerful counsel, strategic insights, and spiritual support to the pastor. Together, they work to uphold the vision of our church.
Eric Meeks
Sherly Lam
Karl Talmo
Sophie Hung
Dan Gerber
The Team
James "J. Mike" O'Neal
Worship Director
J. Mike is a L.A.-based pianist, worship leader, and producer whose musical style spans jazz, gospel, and pop with a soulfully authentic touch. He lives in Arcadia with his wife, Rebecca, his son, Isaiah, and has two adult children, Kaylyn and Jayden.
Melinda Morell
Administrator / Ops Director
Melinda is the administrator to our pastoral & core teams. She enjoys project managing, organizing, hosting others and believes in supporting the local community. She also enjoys quilting, book club, cooking, wine, whiskey, dogs, and traveling.
Mila Santos-Brochu
KIDS Coordinator
Mila is a musician and graduate of Azusa Pacific University with a heart for worship and children’s ministry. She is passionate about creating safe, joyful spaces where kids feel known, loved, and encouraged in their walk with Jesus.
Jay Bryant
Fire Relief Coordinator
Jay is a graduate of North Carolina State University, and has long been guided by a heart for service. She is committed to providing care, stability, and hope to those impacted by the crisis and is honored to serve as part of the Expressions team.