Archives: Team Members

Art Blodgett

Meet Art Blodgett – Choir Director at SonRise Christian Fellowship…

With a voice as rich as his passion for worship, Art leads the SonRise choir with both skill and soul. As Choir Director, Art doesn’t just conduct music — he cultivates a joyful, worshipful soundscape where voices blend and hearts lift. His deep love for choral music and commitment to glorifying God through song is felt in every rehearsal, every Sunday service, and every soaring note.

Art brings years of experience, a kind spirit, and just the right touch of charm to the choir loft — making him not only a talented leader but a beloved mentor. Under his direction, the choir transforms each piece into a powerful expression of faith that enriches the worship experience for the entire congregation.

Whether you’re a seasoned soprano or someone who just loves to sing in the shower, Art will welcome you with open arms and a smile that says, “Let’s make a joyful noise!”

Justin and Laura Vessey

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Jenny Anderson

Jenny has been with SonRise Christian Preschool since 2017 as an aide, teacher, and director. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Studies with a minor in Biblical Studies from Biola University. She also obtained a K-6 teaching credential from CSU San Marcos.

Prior to being at SonRise, she taught 2nd and 3rd grade as well as home-schooled her sons for K-2nd grade. She herself attended our preschool many years ago, as well as all 3 of her children. She is passionate about loving and serving the students and families the Lord brings to us.

Lougene Williams

Lougene Williams is currently serving on the Personnel Committee at Sonrise and, he too, has accepted the nomination, to once again, become an active Elder.  We are so blessed to have Lougene as an
Elder and his wife, Gloria, accepting the nomination as a Deacon.

Cathy Smelser

Cathy has attended SonRise for 12 years. She teaches elementary Sunday School, has served as a Deacon and is currently on Session as Elder over Children’s Ministry. She is also a new member of the Finance Committee and a Board Member of the PreSchool.

Cathy is married to Peter with whom she shares 3 sons, 3 daughters-in-law and 3 grandsons.

Martha Garcia

Martha was ordained as an Elder in 2025 and currently serves on both the Missions Committee and the Personnel Committee. From 2015 to 2018, she faithfully served as a Deacon. A dedicated member of SonRise since 2012, Martha has actively participated in Women of the Word Bible studies and Life Groups, growing in faith and fellowship.

A California native, Martha has lived in Fallbrook since 1999. Now retired from a fulfilling teaching career, she enjoys life with her husband. They have three adult children: two daughters and a son, who now live in three different states. In their free time, Martha and her husband enjoy camping, traveling to visit family, and cheering on the Padres.

Bob Mann

Bob grew up in a Christian home and has followed the Lord for his entire life.

Over the 24 years at Sonrise he has served as an Elder, Awana leader and Los Amigos tutor. He is currently a member of Session, chair of the Finance Committee and chair of the Preschool Board.

Gayle Kott

Gayle Kott has previously served as an Elder at Sonrise. Though it has been a few years, she sensed the Lord’s leading back to a role as an active Elder and accepted the nomination. We are excited to see what God has in store through Gayle in this new season.

Cory Bitting

Cory Bitting grew up in the church but didn’t truly become a Christian until 2009 during his college career.

His collegiate career was lengthy as it is with anyone becoming a fully licensed and accredited Architect in the
state of California. Cory was baptized at Sonrise, has been a Life Group leader, and has a strong love and passion for the well-being of this Body of Christ.

Kirk Sandvig

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