Our Story
A place of renewal, safety, and belonging
From Campus to Community
Thrive exists to bless and disciple people so that they thrive in their relationship with Jesus Christ and others, creating Christian community.
Thrive began in August 2014 as a church mission plant, gathering for worship in a small room on the campus of Florida Gulf Coast University. Our vision was simple: reach college students and young professionals with the life-changing message of Jesus.
From the start, we were blessed with support from some of the founding members of FGCU itself—people who believed in the importance of a gospel presence on campus. What started as a handful of people has grown into a diverse community of all ages and backgrounds.
In 2016, we moved into our current home at Estero Ridge Plaza. Today, we're looking ahead: we've acquired land directly across from FGCU where we're planning to build a permanent home for Thrive.
But no matter where we meet, our mission stays the same: blessing and discipling people so they thrive in their relationship with Jesus and others.
How We Got Here
The Plan for Thrive
Before Thrive Community Church was a church, it was a plan. In 2013, a strategic planning group began praying and dreaming about what a church on campus could look like.
Thrive Community Church Launches
On August 24th, Thrive Community Church launched at Florida Gulf Coast University in Estero. As a mission congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, Thrive began creating a place of renewal, safety, and belonging for students and members of the Estero community seeking spiritual growth.
First Easter Outdoor Service
Thrive held its first outdoor Easter service, celebrating the resurrection of Christ together as a growing community in the beautiful Southwest Florida sunshine.
Finding Our Space
Thrive moved into our current home at Estero Ridge Plaza—a space previously occupied by another congregation. This gave us room to grow as families and community members joined our mission.
Haiti Mission Trip
Our first international mission trip to Haiti, where we served alongside local communities and shared the love of Christ across borders.
Return to Haiti
Thrive returned to Haiti for a second mission trip, continuing to build relationships and serve those in need.
Hurricane Ian
After the devastating impact of Hurricane Ian, Thrive joined forces with local churches and organizations to provide relief and support to those affected.
Guatemala Mission & 10th Anniversary
A milestone year! Thrive celebrated our 10th anniversary on August 24th, and embarked on our first mission trip to Guatemala—continuing our commitment to serve both locally and globally.
Our New Home
We're in the planning phases for our new home. Stay tuned for more details!
Come Experience Thrive
We'd love to meet you. Join us for worship and discover what it means to belong to a community that helps you thrive.