![Meet the 2025–26 Spiritual Formation Pastoral Leadership Team]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1756322599/vanguardedu/cmf0dupilha7da2h4kl0/SFDPastors.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1756322599/vanguardedu/cmf0dupilha7da2h4kl0/SFDPastors.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1756322599/vanguardedu/cmf0dupilha7da2h4kl0/SFDPastors.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1756322599/vanguardedu/cmf0dupilha7da2h4kl0/SFDPastors.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1756322599/vanguardedu/cmf0dupilha7da2h4kl0/SFDPastors.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1756322599/vanguardedu/cmf0dupilha7da2h4kl0/SFDPastors.jpg","width":2200}])
We are excited to introduce the Spiritual Formation Department (SFD) Pastoral Leadership Team for the 2025–26 academic year: Dr. Brenton Fessler, Cody Adams, and Bodie Kuljian. This team will guide the programs and experiences that shape the spiritual life of Vanguard University, creating spaces where students encounter God, grow in faith, and live out the mission of Christ.
Installed During Opening Chapel
The team was officially installed during our first chapel of the year on Wednesday, August 27, in the Seymour Sanctuary, a service that celebrated God’s faithfulness and the unique calling of each pastor.
👉 Watch the installation video below to witness this special moment as President Beal introduces them to the Vanguard community.
Meet the Team
Dr. Brenton Fessler (’02) – Pastor of Formation and Administration
Dr. Brenton Fessler, who will serve as the pastor of formation and administration, is an adjunct professor at Vanguard University, where he currently teaches courses in pastoral ministry, spirituality, and practical theology. Brenton brings nearly 25 years of hands-on ministry experience—including church planting, preaching, youth ministry, and mentoring—to his relationships with students, staff, and faculty. As the founding pastor of RefugeOC in Orange, he focuses on reaching college students and young families. Brenton is passionate about helping the next generation engage with Scripture with clarity and conviction. He earned his undergraduate degree in pastoral leadership from Vanguard University, a master's in theology from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Theological Ministry from Northern Seminary. Brenton is also an ordained minister with the Assemblies of God. Brenton and his wife, Rachel, have raised three amazing humans—Aubrey, Micah, and Hannah.
Cody Adams – Pastor of Preaching and Experiences
Cody Adams, who will serve as the pastor of preaching and experiences, is a pastor, leader, and communicator with more than a decade of ministry experience in a variety of settings, including college and young adult ministries. He has served as a teaching pastor and in executive leadership, most recently leading the Orange County location of Free Chapel. Cody launched a leadership school and a student conference that drew hundreds of high school students to encounter God. He is passionate about helping people experience God’s presence, discipling young leaders, and preaching the Gospel with clarity and conviction. Cody earned his bachelor's degree in theology and international studies from Loyola University in Chicago and is currently pursuing a master's in theology at Vanguard University. He and his wife, Rachel, live in Orange County with their two children, Everett and Emma.
Bodie Kuljian (’15) – Worship Pastor and Artist-in-Residence
Bodie Kuljian currently serves as worship pastor, artist-in-residence, and adjunct professor in the Department of Music. He earned his bachelor’s degree in worship arts from Vanguard University. Bodie desires and prays that Vanguard students will fall more in love with the presence of God, walk in a life of integrity and purity, and experience continual encounters with the Holy Spirit that mark them forever. When he is not investing in students or touring to support his music, Bodie spends time with his wife, Royale, and their three incredible children.
Join Us in Prayer and Support
Please join us in welcoming Brenton, Cody, and Bodie as they lead the Vanguard community into a year of spiritual growth and deepened faith. Don’t forget to watch the full installation video to hear their stories and vision for the year ahead.