About Connect
At Connect, we desire to light a spark in each and every person through the love of Jesus Christ, to see that they meet their God-given potential.
Our Vision
We exist to touch the world
through our community.
Our Pastors have two goals:
1. That you would live a life that not only discovers God’s love for you, but a life that also is lived displaying our love for God and others.
In everything that we do we keep two things at the forefront:
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Love God
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Love People
2. To help you discover, establish, and maintain a healthy relationship with God.
"For God so loved the world He gave His son… for we so love God we give our love in surrender."
Our Story
Connect Church in Opelika was born from a legacy of faith and a clear calling: to help people connect with God, grow in their faith, and live with purpose.
Our story begins with El Shaddai World Outreach, founded by Dr. Robert and Linda Brogdon, whose vision was to raise up leaders to impact the world for Christ.
Pastors John and Amanda Brogdon first met on a blind date in 1995, unaware that God was writing a much bigger story. After life-changing encounters with Jesus in 1998, they surrendered their lives to Christ, were married in 2000, and later completed their ministry training at El Shaddai Theological Seminary. Pastor John also earned his degree from Columbus State University.
After years of faithful service in church leadership, in January 2013, the Brogdons stepped out in obedience and launched Connect Church. What began in Smiths Station has grown into a thriving church family in Opelika, marked by God’s faithfulness every step of the way.
In 2019, with a commitment to being debt-free, Connect Church sold its property and transitioned to meeting on the campus of New Life Christian Center, while continuing to pray and plan for a permanent home.
At Connect Church, we believe life change happens through connection—with God, with people, and with purpose. Our story is still being written, and we’d love for you to be part of it.
We invite you to continue to explore more about our church, upcoming events, and ways to get involved. Better yet, join us in person for a Sunday service—we’d love to welcome you!
Kyle + Josie Whitby
Grand Central Directors
As front of house leaders, the Whitbys manage our volunteers and are active on our Prayer Team.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Greeters, Ushers, Hospitality Volunteers, Parking Crew, Clean Team
Erika Elle Ghiai
Media Director
From paper to presentations, this team manages Connect communications.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Presentation Lead, Camera Operator, Social Media Team, Photography
Gather With Us
There’s Room for You Here
Come experience the Connect Church community this Sunday!
See what to expect and plan your visit—we can’t wait to meet you!
Ministry at Connect Church goes beyond Sunday services—it’s about building relationships, serving others, and growing together in faith.
Discover the many ways you can get involved and be a part of our mission.