Pastor Sara Steenhouse

The Reverend Sara J. Steenhouse (she/her) first joined Vallejo First Christian Church as a member in 2016. Over time, she was a Sunday School teacher, an Elder, a member of the Administrative Council, and served on various committees. When there was a transition in pastoral leadership at the church, Sara was surprised by a strong sense of calling to return to vocational ministry after many years away. Trusting God, yet still unsure of the future she applied to become the next pastor. In 2025 the congregation called Pastor Sara to become the next Minister of First Christian Church of Vallejo and a new ministry partnership began.

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Sara was raised in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). She experienced nurture, challenge, and deep belonging there. Sara worshiped, attended summer camps, and goofed off in youth groups in the church. Mentors were patient with her questions and supported her faith development. By the time she finished high school she had discerned a call to ministry and set off to college with that in mind.

Pastor Sara attended Texas Christian University where she pursued a double major in Religious Studies and Social Work. Next she earned a Master of Social Work degree focusing on Administration and Advocacy from the University of Washington. Sara then moved to the Bay Area to attend Pacific School of Religion where she earned a Master of Divinity degree. She was ordained at Lafayette Christian Church in May of 2008.

Pastor Sara lives in Vallejo with her spouse Felicia. They are parents to four kids in grade school, high school, and college. Together they are delighted to care for one sweet dog and two mischievous cats. Sara loves good coffee, visiting the ocean, and cozy rainy days. She is a prolific knitter and can often be seen working on yarny projects during meetings.