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.
We exist to touch the world
through our community.
Our Story
The #ConnectOpelika story is rooted in a strong foundation of ministry through El Shaddai World Outreach, founded by Dr. Robert and Linda Brogdon, with a vision to raise up leaders to impact the world for Christ. From that legacy, Connect Church was launched as a place where people can experience real connection, practical teaching, and authentic community.
What began in Smiths Station has grown into a thriving church family in Opelika, marked by faith, sacrifice, and God’s faithfulness every step of the way. In 2019, with a commitment to being debt-free and positioned for the future, Connect Church sold its property and began meeting on the campus of New Life Christian Center, while actively pursuing a permanent home.
At Connect Church, we believe life change happens through connection—with God, with people, and with purpose.
There’s a place for you here.
Our Lead Pastors
John + Amanda Brogdon
CoPastors of Connect Church
Together, CoPastors John and Amanda lead Connect Church in Opelika, AL, and are parents to their two sons – Ari and Eli.
John and Amanda first met on a blind date in 1995. After life-changing encounters with Jesus in 1998, they surrendered their lives to Christ, were married in 2000, and completed their ministry training at El Shaddai Theological Seminary. They went on to faithfully serve in church leadership for years before stepping out in obedience to plant Connect Church.
Their mission is to help people know God, walk in faith, and discover their purpose through a growing relationship with Him.
Connect Leaders
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
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:
-
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."
Connect Core Values
Love
Authenticity
Transformation
Evangelism
Discipleship
Community
Missions
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.