Pastors & Staff
Nick Johnson
Lead Pastor
Nick grew up in Mission Viejo and loves the city! Having originally planned on a career in international human rights, Nick completed his legal education at Regent Law School. While pursuing this path, he became increasingly convinced that “the heart of the problem is the problem of the heart” – that so many of the world’s issues stem from hearts running away from God rather than toward Him. God used this conviction to redirect his steps toward pastoral ministry. Nick completed his seminary education at Phoenix Seminary and has served on pastoral staff at two previous churches prior to becoming the Lead Pastor at CCMV. He is married to his wife (and way better half!), Candace, and together they have four children. Nick loves his family, coaching his kid’s sports teams in the community, and the church … and finds that running, podcasts, reading, and coffee are great fuel for those pursuits
Quentin Blakely
Next Gen Director
Quentin grew up in Southern California and came to faith in Christ during his junior year of high school. After graduating, he followed in his family’s footsteps and began a career in law enforcement. After nine years, he sensed a clear call to ministry, and transitioned to full-time missionary work.
In 2023, he married his incredible wife, Nicole, an LVN, who grew up at CCMV. Quentin is passionate about guiding young people in their faith and helping men build deeper relationships with Christ. Outside of ministry, he’s a devoted football fan (especially of the Green Bay Packers and Tennessee Volunteers), a leading Red Bull and Dr. Pepper consumer, and a volunteer speed radar test subject while riding his motorcycle.
Ari Stout
Worship Arts Director
Ari grew up in the small mountain town of Idyllwild, CA. Church has always been a big and influential part of her life. She has always loved serving in any capacity, especially with worship and the youth in the past. She has a love for music and has been serving on the worship team of her home church since she was 14. She is married to her husband Andy and together they have one kiddo, Russell. Ari loves to sing and play guitar, piano, bass and drums in her down time. She also loves taking walks with her boys, baking and sharing meals with good friends/family.
Amber Ludden
Administrative Asst. / Graphic Design
Amber is from Orange County, California and practically grew up in CCMV. She attended with her parents from at least age 8. She is an artist who loves painting God’s creation. Painting is her passion and occasionally creates artwork for the church. Her favorite subjects to paint are the ocean and people. Outside of work she loves surfing, going to the gym, playing video games, and drinking coffee!
Doreen Alcorn
Facility Caretaker
Doreen began teaching Sunday school when she was 11 years old and has enjoyed working with children of all ages. She has always valued helping and building people up. Working at the church has given her the opportunity to do both while sharing the love of Jesus. When she is not taking care of the facility, she is likely teaching math or science or spending time with her family. She and her husband have been married for over 40 years.