Our Story
Parkside Church began with a simple, powerful vision from our Founding & Senior Pastor, Jim Britts: to create a space for Christian worship that felt as open and welcoming as the San Diego sky.
We believe faith thrives in community and in connection with creation. That's why we gather every Sunday at 9:30 AM outdoors in the heart of Balboa Park—to worship under the open sky, to build authentic relationships, and to experience God in the beauty of our natural surroundings.
From our first gathering to today, our mission remains the same: to be a grounded, approachable church family for San Diego, offering a relaxed and meaningful alternative to traditional worship settings.
Meet Our Pastor
Pastor Jim Britts: Founding & Senior Pastor
Pastor Jim Britts is the heart and visionary behind Parkside Church. His passion for creating a welcoming, authentic space for worship under the open sky led to the founding of our community in Balboa Park.
With a deep commitment to fostering genuine connections, Jim leads with warmth and approachability, focusing on practical, Bible-based teachings that resonate with everyday life. His vision has always been to build more than just a Sunday service—it's about creating a family where everyone feels they belong.
When he's not preparing for Sunday worship, you'll find Jim engaging with the San Diego community, always ready with a listening ear and an open heart.
Join Pastor Jim and our community:
Every Sunday at 9:30 AM in Balboa Park
"Come as you are."
— Pastor Jim
Our Beliefs & Values
At Parkside Church, our faith is rooted in the timeless truths of the Bible, expressed through authentic community and the beauty of God's creation.
Bible-Based Teaching
We believe the Bible is God's inspired word and our ultimate authority. Our teachings are practical, relevant, and centered on the life-changing message of Jesus Christ.
Authentic Community
We value real relationships over religious routines. Parkside is a place where you can be yourself, ask questions, and grow alongside others on the journey of faith.
Worship in Creation
Meeting outdoors in Balboa Park isn't just a location—it's a reflection of our belief that God reveals Himself through creation. We worship under the sky to connect faith with the natural world.
We are a non-denominational Christian church, welcoming people from all backgrounds to explore faith in a relaxed, outdoor setting. Our focus is on following Jesus, not on denominational labels.