Our Story

That's a question I get asked a lot. And honestly… it's a fair question.

I've never been the Lead Pastor of a large church. I've never spent years preaching week after week behind the same pulpit. No denomination tapped us on the shoulder and said, "Here's a city, go plant a church." We weren't handed a building, a staff, or a big budget.

So why would our family take such a huge step of faith? Why leave what was comfortable to walk into the unknown? Why risk everything to start a church?

Because sometimes God doesn't give you the whole map. He just gives you enough light for the next step. And the question isn't, "Is this easy?" The question is, "Will you trust Me?"

Real talk… It would've been a whole lot easier if we'd been sent out by a large church with every resource already in place. It would've been easier if everything was guaranteed. But God has never called us to what's easy. He's called us to obedience.

Our assignment is simple. Plant. Water. Love people. And trust God to bring the growth. He's given us a love for this city, a love for these people, and a burden that we simply can't ignore.

So why Saginaw? Not because it's the worst city. Not because crime is out of control. Not because drugs have taken over. The truth is… people are people.

Behind every front door is a story. Marriages hanging by a thread. Parents trying to hold it together. Teenagers searching for purpose. People battling anxiety, depression, loneliness, addiction, grief, and hopelessness. Some look like they have it all together… but inside they're wondering if anyone even notices.

And that's exactly why the local church matters. I believe with everything in me that a healthy, life-giving church can change a community. I believe the Gospel is still the answer. I believe Jesus still changes lives. I believe hope still has a name.

And I believe the light shines brightest where the darkness has convinced people they'll never find their way out.

Will it be hard? Absolutely. Will there be sacrifice? Without a doubt. Will there be moments where we wonder how God is going to do it? I'm sure there will.

But here's what I know… People are still lost. People are still hurting. People are still searching. For hope. For answers. For Jesus.

As long as God gives me breath in my lungs and a heartbeat in my chest, I will spend my life helping people find Jesus.

Our vision and why Soba exists. Leading people to discover the fullness of life found in Jesus.

Our Mission is clear. We want every person God places in our path to Know God. Experience Freedom. Discover Purpose. Impact Change.

That's our heart. That's our mission. That's our story.

Thank you for believing in us, praying for us, encouraging us, and standing with us. Your support means more than you'll ever know.

Now let's go make a difference. Let's change our city… one life at a time.