Nicole Earp

(She/her)

Lead Pastor

I’m Nicole and I’m the Lead Pastor here at Refuge!

I grew up in Fort Myers , and I’ve seen this city change a lot. It’s the place that shaped me, broke me a few times, and helped put me back together. My path to ministry hasn’t been traditional. I always knew I wanted to be in ministry but there were so many moments where I felt like I didn’t belong in church spaces at all—especially after coming out.

But Refuge changed that for me.
This little church is something special. We’re not fancy. We’re not polished. But we’re real. Refuge is a safe place for misfits, question-askers, doubters, dreamers, and anyone who’s ever wondered if they still belong in church.

Spoiler: you do.

By trade, I’m also a neurodiagnostic tech—I run EEGs and nerve tests during the week. I’ve worked in healthcare for over a decade, and I’m currently working toward becoming a licensed mental health counselor. I believe deeply that spiritual and mental health go hand in hand, and I want to be part of helping people heal.

I’m married to my favorite human, Annika. She is the rock of my life and the person that keeps me grounded. Together we’re raising the coolest five-year-old I know. Life is full, messy, and beautiful—and I wouldn’t trade it.

I’m passionate about creating a space where people can reconnect with God, with each other, and maybe even with themselves. You don’t have to have it all figured out to show up here. I don’t. None of us do. But if you’re looking for a place to breathe, to be, to belong—come hang out.