Dominic Avila

Dominic Avila grew up in East Los Angeles and surrendered his life to the lordship of Christ at the age of 20 just before attending The Master’s College on a basketball scholarship. There he met his wife Jessica, got engaged on the Sea of Galilee through the IBEX program, and they both obtained a B.A. in Biblical Exposition.

After graduation, Dominic taught Bible and other subjects at Santa Clarita Christian School. Nine years later, he became the Student Ministry Pastor at Cypress Community Church in Salinas, CA. While serving, he completed his M.A. in Biblical Studies from the Master's College and developed a deep passion for teaching God's Word and discipling men toward maturity in the faith.

In 2016, he joined his former pastor and mentor, Scott Ardavanis, at Grace Church of the Valley, Kingsburg, CA, and served as the Pastor of Equipping and Discipleship. After receiving a call from the elders of Seaside First Baptist Church to help revitalize, and after months of prayer, serving, planning, and preparation, both the GCV and SFBC elder boards installed Dom as the Lead Pastor at the newly named Grace Church Monterey Bay on November 19, 2019.

Since serving at GCMB, Dom has completed his M.Div through Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and The Master's Seminary. In the Fall of 2024 Dom completed the Internship at Capitol Hill Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Mark Dever.

He and Jess have three children: a daughter, Makyla, and two sons, Titus and Judah. The entire family enjoys being active, reading books, and playing outdoors.