Missions

Missions Moment

The Gathering, A Christian Church, Naples, FL

 Approximately a year ago, a member of the mission committee was approached by Sy Huffer, great grandson of Paul Huffer, a charter member of Oakwood Christian Church, about a new church plant God had called him to do in Naples, FL. Shane told his mom who then mentioned it to the Mission Committee at Oakwood about possible support of the Naples Project.    

In February, 2024, the Mission Committee met with Sy Huffer to learn more about The Naples Project. He told how Naples, FL, was named the “happiest city in America from 2015- 2017” according to a Gallup poll. Naples is #14 out of the top 100 of post Christian Worldview cities and the 12th fastest growing city in Florida where 8 out of 10 people don’t share our faith.   

Sy and his wife, Monica, were joined by Aaron and Melissa Smith, Executive & Outreach Minister, to start The Naples Project. They learned that the people there in Naples are hungry for friendship, purpose, and healing. They are hungry for a true community to belong to for purpose beyond their titles, jobs, and homes, and for healing that only Jesus can provide.   

Since our meeting, they have gone from The Naples Project to “The Gathering, A Christian Church”. They have increased their staff to include Phil Barton as Worship Director, Travis Riley as Elementary Coordinator, and Heather Miller as Early Childhood Coordinator. They hold service every Sunday in Cypress Palm Middle School. They hold baptisms at the beach.   

For further information, you can check out their website at www.gatherthe239.com. 

Oakwood Christian Church was proud to help this church plant.