Church leadership transitions are complex and require intentionality, humility, and a clear vision. For Adam and Diego Mesa, their transition was shaped by a long preparation period, a willingness to embrace change, and a commitment to mission over methods. They address leadership shifts that must be handled with care, clarity in roles and expectations, and the role of trust and humility. While challenges inevitably arise, a well-structured transition that prioritizes the church’s long-term health can lead to a lasting impact.

Welcome to Episode 127 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan.

EPISODE LINKS

@amesa

@pastor_diego

https://diegomesa.org/

Beyond the Letter Podcast

https://www.patria.church/

sean@theascentleader.org

theascentleader.org

If you’re a leader approaching a succession or transition, or maybe you’re a few years in and beginning to see how complex transitions leadership is… go to The Art of Pastoral Succession and check out my brand new course in partnership with Carey Nieuwhof. 

Are you in Transition or have one on the horizon? Check out our cohorts and get connected with us at: https://theascentleader.org/cohorts/ 

WHO IS ADAM MESA?

Adam Mesa is a pastor, entrepreneur & creative consultant. Pastor Adam studied biblical studies and theology at Life Pacific University and the Masters University. As Lead Pastor, he helped expand and establish the culture of Patria, where he currently speaks to a congregation of 12,000 members. Being born and raised at Patria, Adam has a continued passion to make disciples of the next generation. Cultivating an atmosphere that all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds can find a relationship with Jesus Christ. Additionally, Pastor Adam also hosts a podcast called Beyond the Letter that empowers Christians to live their everyday life following Jesus and a culture that’s ever changing as well as hosts Beyond I Do, a marriage and relationship podcast with his wife, Ashlee. Pastor Adam and Ashlee live in Southern California with their two sons, Matthias and Thomas.

WHO IS DIEGO MESA?

Pastor Diego Mesa and his wife, Cindy, founded Abundant Living Family Church (ALFC) in 1994, starting with 12 people in their home. The church grew into a 30-acre campus in Rancho Cucamonga, now known as Patria Church, led by their son Adam and his wife, Ashlee. Diego and Cindy remain active as Founding Pastors.

A former triathlete, Diego was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer in 2008 and miraculously healed, inspiring his Health Initiative Revolution. He has authored multiple books, including How to Dream When You’re Told You’re Going to Die and 44 Habits to Hack Life. He also serves as a chaplain and board president at United Christian Academy. His ministry focuses on faith, health, and practical biblical teaching.

SPONSORS & PARTNERS

Thanks to our sponsor: Food For The Hungry. Combine your church's heart for the poor and Food for the Hungry’s global experience at fh.org/churches.