Our Story

I’ll always remember the moment God placed NOVA Church in our hearts…

My wife, Trina, and I found ourselves in a season of seeking, asking God what He had next for us — and this vision of a healthy church family kept stirring in us — a place where people could worship Jesus, experience his presence, and find authentic friendship. We knew God was calling us to plant a church in Phoenix, but we had no idea how it would all come together.

One of the first things we prayed about was a name. As we read Matthew 5:14-16, where Jesus calls us to be the light of the world, the name NOVA stood out to us. A nova is a bright light that shines in the darkness, and that’s exactly what we envisioned — a place where people encounter the hope of Jesus and reflect His light in a way that gives Him all of the glory.

The journey to launching NOVA was full of unexpected moments of confirmation — divine conversations, open doors, and answered prayers. One of the biggest was finding a place to meet. We had no idea where we’d gather after outgrowing our home, but through what I can only describe as a miracle, God led us to a church that not only welcomed us but had been praying for a church planter to come their way.

The journey to launching NOVA was filled with moments where God made it evident that He was leading the way. Through divine conversations, open doors, and answered prayers, He kept confirming His plan. One of the biggest moments came when we needed a place to meet. We had no idea where we’d go after outgrowing our home, but in a way only God could orchestrate, He led us to a church that not only welcomed us but had actually been praying for a church plant to care for. It was a reminder that when God calls, He also provides.

Since that first Sunday in our living room, we’ve seen God move in incredible ways. NOVA Church isn’t just a dream — it’s a living breathing community of people who love Jesus and are on mission together.

If you’re looking for a place to experience God’s presence, a place to belong, and a place to walk out your faith with others, we’d love to meet you.

This story is still being written, and we’d love for you to be a part of it.

— Pastor Dustin