Developing Passionate
Believers in Jesus
Are you looking for a church that believes every word from God is true and demonstrates that the Power of God can make a difference in every area of your life?
Then the Promise Church is the church for you! Come and grow with us in relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. Experience anointed teaching, powerful praise, and intense worship in the Spirit, and dynamic Children’s Ministries at the Promise.
Developing Passionate
Believers
In Jesus
Are you looking for a church that believes every word from God is true and demonstrates that the Power of God can make a difference in every area of your life?
Then the Promise Church is the church for you! Come and grow with us in relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. Experience anointed teaching, powerful praise, and intense worship in the Spirit, and dynamic Children’s Ministries at the Promise.
Dr. Henry & Jackie Wolmarans
Dr. Henry Wolmarans was born and raised in South Africa where he married the love of his life, Jackie.
After completing Bible College in 1980, they planted a Church and Bible College in Welkom, South Africa. It quickly grew to become the largest Spirit-filled church in that State. At least 27 graduates went into full-time ministry in various countries throughout the world.
In 1990 Pastor Henry and his family immigrated to San Diego, USA to start new churches. First, Harvest for Christ Church and then The Promise Church and Bible College.
Dr Wolmarans held a Doctorate of Ministry and a PhD in Theology. His great love was teaching the Word of God with simplicity, accuracy, truth and great passion. He also published four books.
Apostle Henry leaves a legacy of faith in action, and over 100 churches and Bible Colleges worldwide, birthed from his ministry.
He served the Lord for 43 years before finishing his race and graduating to heaven and leaving the church in the hands of his daughter, Pastor Cindy Hope.
Dr. Henry & Jackie Wolmarans
Dr. Henry Wolmarans was born
and raised in South Africa where
he married the love of his life, Jackie.
After completing Bible College in 1980, they planted a Church and Bible College in Welkom, South Africa. It quickly grew to become the largest Spirit-filled church in that State. At least 27 graduates went into full-time ministry in various countries throughout the world.
In 1990 Pastor Henry and his family immigrated to San Diego, USA to start new churches. First, Harvest for Christ Church and then The Promise Church and Bible College.
Dr Wolmarans held a Doctorate of Ministry and a PhD in Theology. His great love was teaching the Word of God with simplicity, accuracy, truth and great passion. He also published four books.
Apostle Henry leaves a legacy of faith in action, and over 100 churches and Bible Colleges worldwide, birthed from his ministry.
He served the Lord for 43 years before finishing his race and graduating to heaven and leaving the church in the hands of his daughter, Pastor Cindy Hope.
Women In Ministry
Are Women Pastors Scriptural?
God’s Original Design
Genesis 1: 26-28
God created man and woman in His image. Both were given the responsibility to rule and steward creation.
Genesis 2:18
The Hebrew word for “helper” is the word “ezer”. The meaning of this word is a strong, supportive partner. In almost every instance it refers to God’s help towards mankind. Only once does it refer to a servant’s help.
The word used to describe the helper for Adam as “suitable or comparable” is the Hebrew word “Kenegdo”. It means a corresponding equal.
There was no hierarchy between Adam and Eve before the fall.
Male Dominance
Genesis 3:16
Man ruling over women came as part of the curse after sin entered. It was never God’s original intent.
Galatians 3:13
Jesus came to break the curse! This restored equality between men and women in Christ.
Women in the Old Testament - God Ordained Leaders
Exodus 15:20
Miriam is called a prophetess and a leader.
Judges 4:4
Deborah is a prophetess, judge, military and spiritual leader.
2 Chronicles 34:22
Huldah was a prophetess who guided reformation in her nation.
There a many more. God accepted the prophetic and leadership roles of women in the spiritual leadership of Israel.
Jesus’ Revolutionary Example
Jesus broke societal norms in His time to affirm women’s dignity and leadership.
John 4:4
Against the culture of His time Jesus spoke to the woman at the well.
Luke 10:38-42
Mary sat in the position and posture of a disciple – a taught one, at the feet of Jesus. Not only did Jesus not rebuke her, He commended her.
Luke 8:1-3
Women supported Jesus’ ministry and followed Him.
Luke 24:1-9
Women were the first witnesses of Jesus’ resurrection.
Women in the Early Church
Paul, the apostle, recognized and commended women as co-laborers in ministry.
Romans 16:3; Acts 18:26
Priscilla - A teacher and co-worker who instructed Apollos
Romans 16:1
Phoebe – A deacon and benefactor who delivered Paul’s letter to Rome.
Romans 16:7
Junia – Is named an outstanding Apostle
Acts 16:14-15
Lydia – A businesswoman and host of the church in Philippi
Paul’s Teachings
We must read Paul’s writings in the context of whom he is speaking to and in the light of his other writings in the New Testament
1 Corinthians 11
Paul refers to women praying and prophesying in church, showing that public ministry is permitted
1 Corinthians 14:34-45
This addresses disorderly disruptions. It is not a universal ban on women speaking in church.
1 Timothy 2:11-15
Paul address very specific false teachings in Ephesus and the misuse of authority. The Greek work used here is very rare and is the only time it is used in scripture. “Authentein” meaning domineering, illegitimate leadership and authority.
Galatians 3:28
“There is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus”
Conclusion
• The Bible presents women as full participants in the church’s mission
• Isolated passages cannot override the examples of Jesus, the early church and Paul’s commendation of women leaders.
• Limiting women’s role in ministry contradicts the gospel’s message of freedom and equality in Christ.
• The great commission in Matthew 28:18-20 and Pentecost in Acts 2:17-18 includes women.
The Holy Spirit empowers all believers – male and female – to minister, preach, teach and make disciples.
The Pastoral Team
Senior Pastor Cindy Hope
Growing up as a “Preacher’s Kid” Cindy knew one thing - she never wanted to be in
full-time ministry! Her family had emigrated from South Africa when she was a teenager
to plant a church in San Diego, USA.
After graduating from Oral Roberts University, she pursued a career as an International
Art Auctioneer for 14 years, becoming one of the most successful auctioneers holding world rankings in sales.
While still working as an auctioneer the Lord spoke to Cindy in 2009 and called her to
His ministry. It wasn’t long before doors began to open for her to preach and by 2011 she was serving in her Dad’s church in many different capacities. In 2015 she was ordained
as a Pastor and the Dean of Promise Bible College.
She has a heart for the lost and broken and her greatest desire is to see people grow
and become passionate believers in Jesus, fulfilling all God has for them. Having walked through her own adversity she ministers with great compassion in a down to earth, relatable way that draws people into intimacy with Jesus and the Holy Spirit so that they are equipped to impact the world around them.
It was her father’s plan for Cindy to continue his legacy, and after finishing his race in 2023 she became the Senior Pastor at The Promise Church. Cindy is married to her
great love Terry Gaasch, a Mechanical Engineer, who is her greatest supporter!
Senior Pastor Cindy Hope
Growing up as a “Preacher’s Kid” Cindy knew one thing - she never wanted to be in full-time ministry! Her family had emigrated from South Africa when she was a teenager to plant a church in San Diego, USA.
After graduating from Oral Roberts University, she pursued a career as an International Art Auctioneer for
14 years, becoming one of the most successful auctioneers holding world rankings in sales.
While still working as an auctioneer the Lord spoke to Cindy in 2009 and called her to His ministry. It wasn’t long before doors began to open for her to preach and by 2011 she was serving in her Dad’s church in many different capacities. In 2015 she was ordained as a Pastor and the Dean of Promise Bible College.
She has a heart for the lost and broken and her greatest desire is to see people grow and become passionate believers in Jesus, fulfilling all God has for them. Having walked through her own adversity she ministers with great compassion in a down to earth, relatable way that draws people into intimacy with Jesus and the Holy Spirit so that they are equipped to impact the world around them.
It was her father’s plan for Cindy to continue his legacy, and after finishing his race in 2023 she became the Senior Pastor at The Promise Church. Cindy is married to her great love Terry Gaasch, a Mechanical Engineer, who is her greatest supporter!
Pastors Bryan
& Mary Seshun
Bryan and Mary have served in various aspects
of ministry for 30 years.
Bryan, a veteran and avid surfer, has been a successful salesman in many different fields. Bryan has a heart for the lost and loves to disciple young men.
Mary is a full time homeschool Mom. She loves to encourage, pray for and serve the people that God has entrusted to her.
Pastors Andrew
& Lindsay Thorne
Andrew and Lindsay have served in various capacities in ministry for forty years.
Andrew is a successful realtor with AARE. He
has a heart and passion to encourage men to
walk in all God has for them.
Lindsay is passionate about prayer, teaching the Word and children’s ministry. As the Children’s church Pastor, it is her greatest desire to train up
a generation empowered by the Holy Spirit,
secure in their identity in Christ.
Pastors Bryan
& Mary Seshun
Bryan and Mary have served in various aspects of ministry for 30 years.
Bryan, a veteran and avid surfer, has been a successful salesman in many different fields. Bryan has a heart for the lost and loves to disciple young men.
Mary is a full time homeschool Mom. She loves to encourage, pray for and serve the people that God has entrusted to her.
Pastors Andrew
& Lindsay Thorne
Andrew and Lindsay have served in various capacities in ministry for forty years.
Andrew is a successful realtor with AARE. He has a heart and passion to encourage men to
walk in all God has for them.
Lindsay is passionate about prayer, teaching the Word and children’s ministry. As the Children’s church Pastor, it is her greatest desire to train up a generation empowered by the Holy Spirit, secure in their identity in Christ.
