Tim and Audra planted Discovery in late 2008 when he finally surrendered to God's call to join the movement that Jesus started over 2000 years ago called the Church. A small group of ten people began meeting in a home on Sunday evenings to pray, study God's Word, lay the foundation, and plan the launch of Discovery. Tim grew up in a Christian home. He surrendered his heart and life to Jesus at age 5 and was baptized. In 1993, his family including three brothers moved to South East Asia to serve refugees. They spent two years bringing in medical teams, giving away school supplies, building restrooms and other facilities, and sharing Jesus. This experience was a defining moment in Tim’s life as he saw people and needs for the first time. The mission focus of Discovery is a response to Tim’s experience as a child.
With no building, no sponsoring church or denomination, no money, no equipment, a small team, and Tim’s young age, lack of experience and education; they set the launch date for April 5, 2009. We met at St. Lucie West K-8 school only to have the rent increased 65% after the first month. We moved and grew at the Treasure Coast Christian Academy. But after 10 months and faced with zoning issues we moved to King's Plaza on US1 and built out over 5000 square feet and called it "The Refuge”.
After three years, we were at full capacity and comfortable at The Refuge. Tim knew it was time for yet another change in location if we were going to continue to do what God has called us to do: To lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ. So we began praying for the right opportunity and location for Discovery's next chapter. God answered our prayers through a partnership with Savanna Ridge Elementary School.
But we knew that God could accomplish so much more if we had a facility to reach more people and to develop better partnerships with more local non-profits, schools, and business. With much prayer, the Lord provided 2.2 acres on 25th Street in Fort Pierce for the permanent home of Discovery Church. On November 23, 2019, we officially broke ground and on November 22, 2020, we had our first worship gathering. The next chapter is being written.
