By Libby Hopkins
Driven Church is a new non-denominational that joined the Brandon community in January of this year.
“That day 10 people decided to follow Jesus,” said Joon Tavarez, the church’s pastor. “A group of 35 people got together with one common goal, to launch a life-giving church that reaches the thousands of un-churched people in the greater Brandon area.”
With the help of a church-planting network called The Association of Related Churches, and several churches from the Tampa Bay area, Driven Church was born.
The vision of Driven Church is to connect people to God, grow together in God and reach the world with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ.
“We are a church that’s accepting, fulfilling and impacting, and seeks to help others realize their purpose in God,” Tavarez said. “When you visit Driven Church, expect a relaxed and welcoming environment where you’ll experience passionate dynamic worship and a relevant message that you’ll enjoy.”
The church has already begun making a difference in Brandon and its surrounding areas.
“We’ve connected with organizations like LifeCare of Brandon, Soles4Souls and Build On to make an impact,” Tavarez said. “We love serving in practical ways as well. From recognizing local teachers by hosting a luncheon to covering the cost of laundry in the local laundry mate, it’s about showing God’s love and displaying how we don’t want anything from them rather we want something great for them.”
Tavarez has many hopes and goals for his church in the upcoming year.
“People matter and we believe God has an amazing plan for the greater Brandon area and we feel privileged to show God’s love and help people realize his grace and purpose for their lives,” Tavarez said. “We are driven by God’s love and purpose to do three things and that is to help people know God, to help people grow together and to reach the world.”
To learn more about Driven Church, visit www.driven.church or contact Tavarez at 486-1678.
Driven Church meets every Sunday at 10 a.m. in the Brandon High School auditorium, which is located at 1101 Victoria St. in Brandon.
