Overflow Church officially opened its doors in January 2019. But Overflow Church was birthed from a rich legacy of faithful love. Let’s explore the story of this church.
In 1981, a group purchased 10 acres on Bell Shoals Rd. They had faith that God would build a church there. Seven years later in 1988, they saw fruit. They planted a mission church that became South Brandon Worship Center.
Nine years later in 1997, Len Harper came as South Brandon’s Lead Pastor. He had a heart for the city of Tampa. Two years later in 1999, Chris Thomas arrived. He was passionate to see the saints walk in joy as Worship Pastor.
Two years after that in 2001, Chuck Ammons came. He served as Youth and Teaching Pastor. He had a fervent desire for people to fully know their God.
Seven years later in 2008, Cindy Ackerman became Prayer Pastor. She asked God to equip His saints. Nine years later in 2017, Mickey and Erin Arruda became Outreach Pastors. They asked God for the nations. That same year, Ruth Spiegel came as Creative Arts Pastor. She asked God for creative expression that glorifies Him.
In 2016, Pastor Chuck wrote a book called Life in the Overflow. It quickly became an anthem. It represented what all of them had been praying. In 2018, South Brandon Worship Center sensed the Lord was doing something new. They prayed and waited in obedience for nine months. They knew they were to close South Brandon. They would re-birth a new church. It would have the same heart, staff, and location. The mission was revived. There was a completely new vision, strategy, and structure. They were crazy enough to do it.
In January 2019, Overflow Church was born. Soon after, Pastors Josh and Brenda Balogh were welcomed. Josh became Pastor to Missional Community Leaders. Brenda became Student Pastor. In the years since launching, the entire body leaned in together. They had childlike faith to trust Jesus. They believed He would build a church of their dreams. They knew it would be according to His will.
Today, Overflow Church stands upon the grounds of the faithful yes of many. These sons and daughters have gone before us. Our greatest desire is to be found faithful. We want to plant seeds during our time under the sun. We are in the beautiful city we call home.
Overflow Church held its first services in January 2019. It stands today in eager expectancy. God moves our beautiful family from glory to glory. It is a testament to faith, obedience, and a heart for the community. Overflow Church continues to grow. It impacts lives with the message of Jesus.