About us
At Refuge Church, we believe in creating a safe space where all people can find belonging, healing, and hope. We’re a small, scrappy, and Spirit-led community of misfits doing our best to follow Jesus and love others well. Whether you’re full of faith, full of questions, or somewhere in between—you’re welcome here.
We don’t believe church is about a building, perfection, or performance. It’s about people showing up for one another, growing in grace, and living out the radical love of Christ in everyday ways. At Refuge, we journey together through life’s messiness with honesty, compassion, and a deep commitment to making room for everyone at the table.
Come as you are. Stay as long as you need. Let’s build something beautiful together.
What to Expect
Whether it’s your first time at church or you’ve been burned by religion, we know showing up can be hard. At Refuge, we keep things simple, welcoming, and real. Here’s what you can expect when you walk through our doors.
Come As You Are
Dress up or don’t—we’re just glad you’re here. Whether you’re in jeans, sweats, or Sunday best, you’ll fit right in. No judgment, no pressure, just real people showing up as themselves.
Real Worship, Honest Conversation
We keep things simple and meaningful. Expect live music, real talk, and space to question, learn, and grow.
Connection & Community
We’re a small church that feels like family. You’ll be greeted with a smile, maybe even a hug, and probably invited to stay after for connection and conversation. We’re all about being people for people who need people.
Teaching Team
Our teaching team is made up of Pastor Nicole and Pastor David—two voices, one shared heart for faith, justice, and community. Nicole brings warmth, boldness, and a passion for creating safe space. David brings depth, curiosity, and thoughtful insight. Together, they help us explore what it means to follow Jesus in real, inclusive ways.
Senior Pastor
Nicole Earp
Nicole is a lifelong Fort Myers local, a neurodiagnostic technologist, and a passionate advocate for mental health and LGBTQ+ inclusion in the church. She brings warmth, wit, and theological depth to her leadership at Refuge, often drawing from both her faith and lived experience.
Teaching Pastor
David Thomas
David is a lifelong educator and pastor originally from North Carolina, with over two decades of experience in schools and churches. He brings wisdom, humor, and a heart for inclusion to the Refuge teaching team, blending his background in counseling, administration, and ministry. A proud Tar Heel, David lives in Fort Myers with his husband Adrian, their son Jackson, and a lively crew of four-legged companions.
Sermons
Holy Habits // Self Care
We Don’t Know How to Rest Let’s be real.[…]
QTNA // The Gay QTNA
This week at Refuge, we continued our QTNA (Questions That[…]
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