MEET THE TEAM.

STAFF

Leland Saccone

Executive Pastor & Elder

Leland obtained his undergraduate degree from UC Davis, and his law degree from the University of San Diego. While practicing as an attorney, Leland felt called to serve at Monterey Church. His focus is on discipleship, leadership development, missions and the business operations of Monterey Church. Leland and his wife Veronica are proud parents of twins (Jonah and Ava). In his free time, Leland enjoys anything outdoors, a good cup of coffee, reading, and live music. 

Mike Wiese

Teaching Pastor & Elder

Mike received a B.S degree in Communication Studies from James Madison University, in VA. He and his wife, Hannah, went to school together and got married in May, 2010.  They have two sons, Malachi and Gabriel.  Mike has been serving in ministry for 15+ years.  He loves to lead and preach the good news of Jesus Christ. Mike enjoys early mornings, beach adventures with his family, leadership podcasts, disc golf, missions trips, motorcycles, music, coffee dates, campfires, Chick-fil-A, and riddles. 

Hannah Wiese

Communications Director & Family Ministries

Hannah was born and raised in Northern Virginia, where she lived until moving to Monterey California in 2015. She graduated from James Madison University with a B.S. degree in Communication Studies. Hannah and her husband Mike began serving in ministry together shortly after they got married in 2010 and love being a part of all that the Lord is doing in and through His Church! She helps oversee family ministries, communications, hospitality, and all things administrative. Hannah loves going on adventures, donuts and coffee, game nights and being a mom to her sons Kai and Gabe. 

Jedi Horca

Worship Pastor

Jedi grew up with a passion for music. At the age of 17, he felt a strong calling to use his gifts for God. He joined Monterey Church in August 2010, and in February 2013, he became the Worship Pastor. Jedi is passionate about creating a culture where people can be creative and bold for God. He graduated from Monterey Peninsula College with a degree in Psychology. Jedi and his wife Kaitlyn are taking on the adventure of foster care. He enjoys surfing, disc golf, taking pictures, creamer with a touch of coffee, and writing and recording music.

Kate Horca

GoKids Director

Kate is a California native. Her passion to see children fall in love with Jesus fuels her as GoKids Director. She cares deeply about partnering with parents in the spiritual growth of children. Kate graduated from California State University of Monterey Bay with a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology. She and her husband Jedi married in 2014 and are enjoying a new season of parenting with a beautiful baby girl. She loves bike rides, sushi, and coffee.

ELDER TEAM

John & Melody Church

Last Names  S - Z

In their free time, Melody and John both love rooting for the SF Giants. Melody also loves knitting and baking delicious treats, and John loves hiking and traveling. They have the gift of hospitality and we are so thankful to have them shepherd our Church body!

Mike & Jeri Downey

Last Names  Q - R

Mike is a sports fanatic who loves rooting for the 49ers, and is full of wisdom and great stories. Jeri loves painting, sewing, playing the flute and piano - and has many other talents. They are fun, adventurous, and enjoy traveling together. To know them is to love them!

Matt & Kaitlyn Litton

Last Names  N - P

Matt and Kaitlyn are originally from the East Coast, and are currently in Monterey while Matt studies at the Naval Postgraduate School. Kaitlyn is a Nurse Practitioner, and they have two adorable children - Etta and Clive. In their free time they love outdoor adventures, good food, and are both extremely hospitable and servant hearted. And bonus...Matt makes the best cinnamon rolls you'll ever try.

Rougeau & Diane McWhorter

Last Names  K - M

Ro is a graduate of Bethany Bible College, and also spent 20 years serving in the military. He has immense experience as a pastor, leader, and elder in the church, and is currently serving as a Chaplain at our community hospital, and leading our Prison Ministry. Ro loves to golf and hand out “high-fives.” He and his wife Diane are among some of the founding members of Monterey Church. 

Steve & Linda Popp

Last Names  G - J

Steve and Linda have 3 children and 3 grandkids and have been married since 1983. Steve works in IT and Linda is an Educational Specialist. There's no doubt about it, they are two of the sweetest people you will ever meet!

Dan Stevens

Last Names  C - F

Dan loves all things sports, loves to Worship, and graduated from Baylor University. He has a daughter, Melissa who is a world class free diver. He doesn't miss a single Monterey Church event - so make sure to say "Hello" next time you see him!

Brad Zielinski

Last Names  A - B

Brad is a Military brat who has lived around the world and currently works in telecommunications. He has been a part of MC for over 10 years, loves swimming, fine foods and good conversation.