Steve Bomar’s Journey from Nazarene to Mennonite Church USA

Steve Bomar began his faith journey as a member of the Church of the Nazarene, a denomination he considered home for many years. His spiritual development was shaped by the Nazarene tradition, which emphasized discipleship, Scripture study, and ministry gifts. During his teenage years, he felt called to pastoral ministry and pursued a Bachelor of Arts in theology at Point Loma Nazarene University. After completing his degree, he served in a youth and music ministry role in Fresno, California, while also studying at Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary, where he earned his Master of Divinity. He later completed a Doctor of Worship Studies at the Institute for Worship Studies and now serves as the lead pastor at Zion Mennonite Church in Hubbard, Oregon.

Bomar reflects on his time in the Nazarene denomination, acknowledging its influence on his faith and ministry. He recalls a period during his undergraduate studies when he grappled with questions about the denomination’s identity and mission. He wondered how the Jesus he encountered in the Sermon on the Mount was being lived out in the Nazarene community. This introspection led him to explore other theological traditions, including Anabaptist thought, which eventually prompted him to consider the Mennonite Church USA as a potential spiritual home.

During the Centennial Celebration of the Los Angeles First Church of the Nazarene, Bomar encountered a story that resonated deeply with him. The narrative described Phineas F. Bresee’s decision to leave the Methodist denomination to continue his ministry on skid row in Los Angeles. This led to the formation of the first Nazarene congregation, which included individuals from marginalized backgrounds such as recovering addicts, homeless people, and former prostitutes. The choice of the name “Nazarene” was rooted in John 1:46, where the question “Can anything from Nazareth be good?” highlights the denomination’s early commitment to serving the poor and marginalized.

The story also highlighted the unifying spirit of the Church of the Nazarene’s founding. In 1908, a group of holiness churches from across the United States came together to form the denomination, overcoming regional divisions and historical tensions. They were united by their shared commitment to following Jesus and living out his teachings. This historical context underscores the Nazarene tradition of seeking reconciliation and embodying the kingdom of God through community and service.

Bomar’s journey from the Nazarene denomination to the Mennonite Church USA reflects a broader theological exploration. His experience illustrates the dynamic nature of Christian faith, where individuals are continually called to examine their beliefs and seek communities that align with their understanding of discipleship. The Nazarene tradition’s emphasis on social justice and service, combined with its historical roots in marginalized communities, continues to influence its members and inspire new generations of believers.

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