A Place to Call Home
Dani's Advent Story

•
September 21, 2026

4 Minute Read


Dani and her family. From left to right: Nina, Dani, Theo, and Bruno

When my family and I first came to Advent Lutheran Church, we were looking for something that had been missing from our lives for a long time: a place we could truly call home. We wanted more than a church to attend on Sundays. We were looking for a community where our family would feel welcomed, where our children could grow in faith, and where we could build meaningful relationships with people who shared similar values.

As a child and young member of my church, I grew up surrounded by friends and brothers and sisters in faith. The church was more than a place of worship; it was a community that helped shape who I am today. Those relationships and experiences were incredibly meaningful to me, and as my own family grew, I realized how much I missed that sense of belonging. I wanted my children to experience the same kind of faith-centered community that had such a positive impact on my life.

One of my first memories of feeling that Advent could become our church home was during the worship service. The contemporary style of the service, combined with the quality and execution of the music, immediately resonated with us. The worship felt genuine, engaging, and meaningful. At the same time, Pastor Alisha made a lasting impression. She was incredibly welcoming without being intrusive, creating an environment where we felt comfortable and respected. She gave us the space we needed while making it clear that we were welcome. That balance made us want to come back and continue exploring what Advent had to offer.

What I appreciate most about Advent Lutheran Church is the sense of community it creates. It is a place where people genuinely care for one another and where families have opportunities to connect, serve, and grow together. Since becoming part of Advent, we have found much more than a church. We have found friendships, support, and a place where our family feels connected. I especially value the church's investment in children and families, providing opportunities for the next generation to learn about faith, build relationships, and develop strong values in a welcoming environment.

My understanding of generosity and stewardship grew as I became more involved in the church. When I learned that the church's ministries, programs, and outreach efforts are sustained by the faithful financial support of its members, I realized that I needed to do my part. I came to understand that giving is not simply about supporting a budget; it is about investing in a mission that impacts lives, nurtures faith, serves families, and strengthens the community. Supporting the church became a way for me to contribute to something much greater than myself.

I choose to support Advent Lutheran Church because I believe in the mission and the difference it makes in people's lives. I want other families to experience the same welcoming community that we found here. I want children to have a place where they can grow in faith, build lasting friendships, and know they are loved and supported. Through our giving, we help create opportunities for others to encounter God's love and experience the same sense of belonging that has been so meaningful to our family.

My greatest hope for Advent Lutheran Church is that it continues to grow and welcome even more families, children, and individuals seeking a church home. I hope our ministries continue to expand and reach more people throughout our community. Most importantly, I hope Advent remains a place where children can grow in faith, form lifelong friendships, and become the next generation of believers, leaders, and servants. My prayer is that future generations will experience the same sense of belonging, support, and community that my family has found here, and that together we continue sharing God's love with an ever-growing number of people.

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From this Collection: Discipleship In Action
September 13, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
God's Work. Our Hands
God’s Work. Our Hands. This weekend we participated alongside ELCA Lutherans across the country in a time of service, focusing on the daily call to love and serve our neighbor. Together, we brought coins to the local laundromats, helping people with the expense of washing clothes (Average cost per load is between 2-5 dollars, and can be up to $8!) We prepared, cooked, and distributed meals to the Cocoa Veterans Village The Faith Builders and Senior Youth Group made Ham and Cheese and PB&J sandwiches for Matthew’s Hope You can view the full gallery of photos by clicking the button below:God's Work Our Hands Photos More about the day from our denomination, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America: “God’s work. Our hands.” is the ELCA’s annual day of service. It is a blessed opportunity for all our congregations to celebrate who we are as a church, engaging in projects and activities that explore our convictions as Lutherans: that all life in Jesus flows from a living, daring confidence in God’s grace. The ELCA is one church, freed in Christ to love and serve our neighbor every day.
September 4, 2026 •
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October 12, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
Trust Through Tithing
On my first visit to Advent, Rudy welcomed me and invited me to Bible study. During the time to pass the peace, Rudy introduced me to other people, and in Bible study, he introduced everyone in the class and got my email address so he could send me next week’s lesson. People in Bible study were so friendly and welcomed me with open arms. I saw people from Bible study when I volunteered at the food pantry, and everyone made me feel valued and welcomed. The thing I appreciate most is the outward focus at Advent – the leadership is always looking for ways that we can welcome and serve others within the walls of the church and just as importantly, when we walk out the door. I grew up watching my mom write a check to the church every week. As a college student and then as an adult, I followed her lead and always gave “something” to the church. When I was in my 30’s, my church had a stewardship campaign that taught us that God would bless me if I tithed, so I gave it a try – and what a blessing that has been! During tough financial times, such as when my husband went back to college and I was the only wage earner in the family, I kept tithing, and somehow the finances always worked out. When I went through a divorce in my early 40’s, it was a scary time financially. I was a single mom with two kids and in the midst of the “what if’s,” I kept tithing because God had already proven to me that his math is perfect. I know this is God’s plan and promise because it doesn’t make sense, intellectually, that 90% meets your needs and wants better than 100%. But, as God promised in Malachi 3:10, He has returned my small gift by throwing open the floodgates of heaven! Tithing frees me from pondering “how much.” When I’ve earned a lot, I give 10%. Now that I’m approaching retirement, I’ll give 10%. Jesus talks about the widow’s mite, so I know that He doesn’t care about the number – he cares that I acknowledge that it’s all His. I believe God wants me to show my faithfulness and trust in Him by tithing. I want to be a part of Advent’s ministry by supporting the staff, programs, and outreach of the church. My tithing helps me to do just that. My hope is that others will be welcomed into the Advent family and learn how much God loves them so they can be blessed in their own lives and bless others by helping to reach the world for Jesus.
October 5, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
A Legacy that Lasts
When Karen and Don Hagen came to Advent Lutheran Church, they were searching for a place to belong—a congregation whose love for God showed up in worship and in outreach. Having come from a large church with strong ministries and deep friendships, they didn’t expect to find that again. But Advent surprised them. They remember the warm welcome they received, and the way Advent focused on mission and ministry. “Each time we visited,” they said, “we learned something new about what Advent was doing in the community.” After a few months, they realized they had found their new church home. Now, Karen and Don are an integral part of the life of the church. Over the years, what they have appreciated most is how deeply people care for one another. “We are each other’s extended family,” they said. “We are growing old—together.” They have been inspired as they watch outreach efforts grow again and have seen younger members step into leadership, supported by the steady encouragement of those who came before them. Don and Karen say that supporting Advent financially is part of living the life they believe God has chosen for them. They cherish the sanctuary, the staff, and the pastors who work together with a shared purpose. They give because they want to sustain the infrastructure—tangible and intangible—that makes Advent’s ministry possible. Their understanding of generosity was shaped long before they arrived here. During their years in the Navy, both witnessed the devastating effects of war and the overwhelming needs of families trying to rebuild their lives. “We had to find ways to give back and pay it forward to help others” they said, “we taught our daughters that importance and now they are teaching their children.” Through it all, they felt God’s blessings. They say their greatest hope is that future generations will build a strong home life that includes the church. They want children to grow up knowing the solid comfort of God’s love. Karen and Don are grateful for Advent — a place where God’s grace is lived, shared, and passed on. And they offer thanks to the congregation whose presence, prayer, service, leadership, and financial generosity make stories like theirs possible.
September 28, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Love in Action
When Nancy Brown moved from Massachusetts to Melbourne, she knew finding a new church home was an important step. As soon as she walked into Advent, it felt right. She loved the worship services and sermons, and signed up for a Bible study early on. After signing up to volunteer for Advent’s Food Pantry Ministry, Nancy saw the caring community, and the dedication to outreach as well as serving those within the church. It helped Nancy know Advent was the place she would call her church home. “I could see and feel God’s love in action,” she said. To this day, Advent’s weekly Food Pantry is one of Advent’s largest ministries, often feeding hundreds of people each week. Nancy says her sense of generosity has grown throughout her entire life. “Both of my parents gave their time and talents to charitable organizations. And I followed their lead into adulthood.” Now, Nancy continues to be dedicated to offering her time, her talents, and her financial gifts, to support the ministries which have been so impactful. “It is important to me that the work that God is calling us to do at Advent is supported by my time and my treasure,” she said. Nancy’s greatest hope is that Advent continues to serve as a thriving community of faith through the example of Jesus, helping those in need in the congregation, community and world. Nancy is grateful for Advent – a congregation that is dedicated to caring for neighbors, showing God’s love in action and inspiring others to do the same: not just in words, but in action.
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September 21, 2026 • 4 Minute Read
A Place to Call Home
When my family and I first came to Advent Lutheran Church, we were looking for something that had been missing from our lives for a long time: a place we could truly call home. We wanted more than a church to attend on Sundays. We were looking for a community where our family would feel welcomed, where our children could grow in faith, and where we could build meaningful relationships with people who shared similar values. As a child and young member of my church, I grew up surrounded by friends and brothers and sisters in faith. The church was more than a place of worship; it was a community that helped shape who I am today. Those relationships and experiences were incredibly meaningful to me, and as my own family grew, I realized how much I missed that sense of belonging. I wanted my children to experience the same kind of faith-centered community that had such a positive impact on my life. One of my first memories of feeling that Advent could become our church home was during the worship service. The contemporary style of the service, combined with the quality and execution of the music, immediately resonated with us. The worship felt genuine, engaging, and meaningful. At the same time, Pastor Alisha made a lasting impression. She was incredibly welcoming without being intrusive, creating an environment where we felt comfortable and respected. She gave us the space we needed while making it clear that we were welcome. That balance made us want to come back and continue exploring what Advent had to offer. What I appreciate most about Advent Lutheran Church is the sense of community it creates. It is a place where people genuinely care for one another and where families have opportunities to connect, serve, and grow together. Since becoming part of Advent, we have found much more than a church. We have found friendships, support, and a place where our family feels connected. I especially value the church's investment in children and families, providing opportunities for the next generation to learn about faith, build relationships, and develop strong values in a welcoming environment. My understanding of generosity and stewardship grew as I became more involved in the church. When I learned that the church's ministries, programs, and outreach efforts are sustained by the faithful financial support of its members, I realized that I needed to do my part. I came to understand that giving is not simply about supporting a budget; it is about investing in a mission that impacts lives, nurtures faith, serves families, and strengthens the community. Supporting the church became a way for me to contribute to something much greater than myself. I choose to support Advent Lutheran Church because I believe in the mission and the difference it makes in people's lives. I want other families to experience the same welcoming community that we found here. I want children to have a place where they can grow in faith, build lasting friendships, and know they are loved and supported. Through our giving, we help create opportunities for others to encounter God's love and experience the same sense of belonging that has been so meaningful to our family. My greatest hope for Advent Lutheran Church is that it continues to grow and welcome even more families, children, and individuals seeking a church home. I hope our ministries continue to expand and reach more people throughout our community. Most importantly, I hope Advent remains a place where children can grow in faith, form lifelong friendships, and become the next generation of believers, leaders, and servants. My prayer is that future generations will experience the same sense of belonging, support, and community that my family has found here, and that together we continue sharing God's love with an ever-growing number of people.
September 14, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
In Sickness and In Health
When we moved to the Melbourne area in 1993 our son was finishing the fifth grade. As lifelong Lutherans, Jon and I knew one of our first priorities was to find a warm, welcoming church home with an active youth group. After our first visit to Advent, Pastor Jake Knoedler visited us at the hotel we were staying in and wanted to know more about us. From that conversation he helped us to feel welcomed to the community and to Advent. Advent was a small church then but already was generously reaching out and serving the community and the Advent family. Two years after we moved to the area and joined Advent, I had a severe medical situation with a recovery of over a year. The Advent family supported us with prayers, cards, calls, meals, visits and love. It meant so much to our family to feel the love of our church family. As a long time member I have had the privilege to be a part of and witness the hearts and hands of members and friends of Advent step in and serve Advent and our community with their time, offerings and talents. Through the generosity of Advent friends and members, Advent has done, and continues to do, wonderful things to make a difference in people’s lives. I learned generosity from my parents. They were wonderful examples of being generous with their time, talents and giving to the church and to the community. Our family were farmers and we had a big family with six children. Our home farm has been in our family for over 100 years. We had dairy cows, fields of crops and big gardens. We worked together and we shared the bounty of vegetables from our gardens and the fruits from our trees with our church family, community and those in need. In those days most of the farmers in the area had immigrants who would come in the summer to work in the fields. We would post a sign by the road that they were welcome to come and take fruit from our trees and vegetables from the gardens. After my father passed away and my mother could no longer live alone on the farm she moved to an assisted living facility and had a one-bedroom apartment. Coming from a five-bedroom farmhouse there was a lot of furniture and accessories that would not be able to go with her. We discussed having an auction sale or garage sale but my mother said to give it all to the church for the church’s annual rummage sale. Mom said the Lord had blessed her with it and now it was time for it to be a blessing to new families and the church would be good stewards of the money it received from the sale. Another beautiful lesson in generosity. We have been faithful givers to Advent for over three decades. In that time, we have seen Advent be faithful in shining the light of Christ in our worship, within the Advent family and into our community. Advent has been committed and faithful in growing ministry outreach, care and service to members and the community. I hope that Advent continues to be committed and faithful in serving the Lord within the congregation, surrounding areas, Brevard County and beyond. I hope that people in our community will be drawn to Advent to see it as a place to be open and accepting to all, focused on the word of God and pouring His love, grace, mercy, peace and generosity to our church family, our community and beyond.
September 9, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Compassionate Care (Dij and Rudy)
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September 7, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
All About Connections
As a “cradle Lutheran,” Audrey Heater walked into the doors of Advent looking for something familiar, like what she had experienced at her church in Virginia. She wasn’t expecting to find immediate connections. After all, Virginia and Florida are fairly different. But she had no idea just how many connections she already had! At the very first service she attended, Pastor Dave shared an analogy of Michigan, the U.P., Miners and Finlanders – exactly where she grew up! A month later, she was invited to a small group where she met others who helped her to feel like she belonged. Now, Audrey serves on the Christian Outreach team to offer a warm welcome to each person who walks into Advent. You might recognize her on Sunday mornings as she greets each person with a smile. “It is so important to know that you are seen and invited to join!” Audrey said. Audrey supports Advent with her time, talent, and treasures because she believes there is real impact in making connections, within the church walls and outside of them. Through the Food Pantry ministry, the Youth programming, and small group Bible studies, Audrey sees the way Christ’s love and grace bring us together, and helps to “let everyone know that they are a special Child of God” Audrey is grateful for Advent – a place where people from all stages of life and faith can gather and everyone feels they have a place to belong. And she offers thanks for the congregation whose dedication to service and making connections makes stories like hers possible.
September 2, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
"Dollar Bill"
“Dollar Bill” is a familiar face, happily greeting those who walk into Advent on a Sunday morning. But how did he get that nickname? And how did he learn to be so generous? Check out the video to hear more from Bill and Tammy!