OUR STORY
Emmaus Church was born out of something simple — a small Bible study of about 15 people gathering in a living room near Winter Garden, Florida. In the fall of 2011, those members asked Pastor David Netzorg to lead them in planting a reformed church in Winter Garden. It was a call Pastor David had already felt stirring in his heart. Together, they stepped out in faith, and on December 11, 2011, Emmaus held its first gathering — meeting on Sunday evenings in a shared office space off Colonial Drive.
Over the next several years, Emmaus grew slowly and steadily. The church developed a reputation for powerful worship, deep relationships, and a strong sense of family. In 2017, that growing community took a bold step — relocating to the historic Garden Theatre in downtown Winter Garden after a community-wide fundraising campaign called Answer the Call. It was a defining moment that reflected the faith and generosity at the heart of Emmaus. The church continued to thrive there until January 2024, when Emmaus entered an exciting new chapter: a partnership with Family Christian School, moving into a beautiful five-acre facility in Oakland, Florida — complete with a spacious sanctuary, classrooms, and room to grow.
Today, Emmaus is an Independent Reformed Church and a loving community committed to expository preaching, biblical worship, and the kind of genuine relationships that carry people through every season of life. We hold to the Westminster Standards — including the Westminster Confession of Faith and both Catechisms — because we believe these documents faithfully reflect the system of doctrine taught in God's Word. We are non-denominational in structure but Reformed in conviction, and we welcome anyone who is searching for a church that takes the Bible seriously and values christian community.
At the center of everything we do is a simple mission: to help you become a faithful follower of Jesus. Whether you've been walking with Christ for decades or you're just beginning to ask questions, there is a place for you here. We are glad you found us.
OUR MISSION
EMMAUS CHURCH EXISTS TO HELP YOU BE A FAITHFUL FOLLOWER OF JESUS
OUR VISION
TO BE A LOVING COMMUNITY, GROUNDED IN BIBLICAL WORSHIP, AND COMMITTED TO FAITHFULLY FOLLOWING JESUS.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
SCRIPTURE
We believe the Bible is the inspired, infallible, and inerrant Word of God. We believe that scripture alone is the final authority for faith and life. At Emmaus, we teach Scripture expositionally—letting God's Word speak for itself, verse by verse. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
THE HOLY SPIRIT
We believe the Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, draws people to Christ, and indwells every believer. He empowers godly living, illuminates Scripture, and equips the church for God's work. (John 16:5-15)
THE CHURCH
We believe the Church is the body of Christ—a community of believers gathered to worship, grow in grace, and make disciples. We believe that being a part of a bible believing church is essential for life and godliness. (Ephesians 4:11-16)
THE TRINITY
We believe in one God, eternally existing in three distinct Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each is fully God, equal in power and glory, yet unified in essence and purpose. (Matthew 28:19)
HUMAN NATURE
We believe every person is created in the image of God with inherent dignity and worth. Yet because of sin, all people are in a sinful estate— separated from God, and in need of being reconciled to God. (Genesis 1:27; Colossians 1:21-22)
JESUS' LORDSHIP
We believe Jesus is Lord of all—our King, Savior, and the rightful authority over every part of our lives. Following Him isn't a compartment of life; it's the center of it. (Philippians 2:9-11)
JESUS CHRIST
We believe Jesus Christ is fully God and fully man—born of a virgin, sinless in life, crucified for sin, and risen from the dead. He is the only way to the Father and the Savior of all who trust in Him. (John 14:6)
SALVATION
We believe salvation is a gift of God's grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ alone—not merited by works. Those who trust in Christ are forgiven, made new, and welcomed into God's family forever. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
JESUS' RETURN
We believe Jesus Christ will return personally, visibly, and in glory to judge the living and the dead. This hope anchors us in the present and shapes how we live. (Revelation 22:12-13)
MEET THE EMMAUS TEAM
David Netzorg
Senior Pastor
Pastor David grew up in South Florida, he and his wife have 6 kids and 14 grandkids, which takes up most of their free time. When he isn't with family or at church he is fishing or watching the Miami Dolphins.
Dave McFarlane
Elder
Dave and his wife Angie have been at Emmaus from the very beginning. He has faithfully served Emmaus for many years. Dave usually walks to church and He and Angie are frequently found walking on the West Orange trail.
David McAdams
Director of Mercy Ministries
David was born in Florida and returned in 2020 after a career with theDepartment of Justice. When he is not caring for people at church and in the community he is playing pickleball or spending time outside.
Steven Seal
Assistant Pastor, Director of Student's Ministry
Pastor Steven is originally from Philadelphia, he moved to Florida in 2017 to attend Bible college and seminary. He loves playing golf and all things Philadelphia.
Erin Adkins
Director of Worship Ministry
Erin is a Flordia girl born and raised. She has been playing in church worship services since she was a teenager. She and her husband have two kids, you might find them by a pool or a beach somewhere!
Jenn Minnick
Director of Communication
Jenn and her husband Brandon served as missionaries in Costa Rica for several years before joining the Emmaus family. They have four kids they they are always driving around somewhere.
Joe Jacob
Elder
Joe and his wife Christine have been members at Emmaus Church for over 10 years, and he has served as an elder for much of his time here. Joe loves guitar and he and Christine also serve on our worship team.
Katrina Netzorg
Director of Children's Ministry
Katrina loves serving alongside of her husband in ministry at Emmaus. In addition to children's ministry she also runs the events team at the church. She loves fitness, and all things Christmas.
Trenton Adkins
Director of Technology
Trention is Florida native working full time as a bakery manager for Publix. At Emmaus, he takes care of everything that plugs in or connects to wi-fi. In the little spare time he has he will be on his jon boat fishing.