For more than 33 years, Bucky Dennis has served in pastoral ministry with a passion for developing disciples and building healthy churches. His ministry journey began at Mariners Church, where he grew as a pastor, leader, and disciple-maker, eventually serving as a member of the executive leadership team. Later, God called Bucky to plant a church, where he faithfully served as Lead Pastor for fifteen years, preaching God’s Word, cultivating authentic community, and raising up the next generation of leaders. Over time, that church plant grew and became Generations OC Church, where Bucky continued to serve as Lead Pastor and guide the church through seasons of growth, change, and renewal.

After more than three decades of pastoral leadership, Bucky sensed God leading him into a new season of ministry. Through an intentional succession process, he joyfully passed the baton of leadership at Generations OC Church to his son-in-law and the next generation of leaders. Today, he serves as Pastor Emeritus and spiritual father at Generations, investing his wisdom, encouragement, and pastoral care into emerging leaders. His greatest joy is helping pastors and ministry leaders flourish in their calling while continuing to strengthen the culture and mission of the church he loves.

Underlying Bucky’s entire ministry journey has been a deep desire to help people hear God’s voice and follow Him faithfully (John 10:2–3). This calling was forged through both personal suffering and spiritual transformation. Following the loss of his infant son, Baby Bucky, he experienced the comfort and sustaining presence of God in profound ways, shaping a lifelong passion for soul care and spiritual growth. Influenced by mentors such as Dallas Willard, Richard Foster, Henri Nouwen, and Dr. Bill Gaultiere, Bucky developed a rich appreciation for spiritual formation and the contemplative life. This journey ultimately led him to become a trained Spiritual Director through Soul Shepherding, where he now helps individuals discern God’s presence, listen for His voice, and respond to His invitations with greater faith, freedom, and intimacy with Christ.

Beyond ministry, Bucky treasures his marriage of more than forty-five years to his high school sweetheart, Kathleen. Together they have been blessed with three daughters, wonderful sons-in-law, and fourteen grandchildren, who bring immeasurable joy to their lives.

You can contact Bucky at bucky.dennis@generationsoc.com.