Our Staff

    Pastor Ernie Merritt has pastored the Fundamental Baptist Church of Escondido, California, since 2006. Prior to being called to Fundamental, he served for over 16 years as Youth and Family Pastor at Faith Baptist Church in Palm Bay, Florida. Pastor Merritt married his college sweetheart Melissa in 1990, after they both graduated from Pensacola Christian College. Pastor and Mrs. Merritt have been blessed with three darling daughters who are actively involved in ministry – Makaela, Arianna, and Angelica.

          Pastor Merritt has enjoyed the privilege of enthusiastically preaching at college and high school chapel services, camps, retreats, and revival services. As a former youth pastor, he has a heart for young people, and he is sensitive to their spiritual needs.