About Brighthouse
Our Story
After more than twenty years of serving in ministry and church leadership, Derek and Nikki Dale sensed God calling them to plant a life-giving church where people could know Jesus, find belonging, discover purpose, and radiate His light.
2022
September 2022
Brighthouse began with prayer, obedience, and a clear call from God. As Derek and Nikki prayed about where God was leading them to plant a church, one city kept rising to the surface: Athens. Two days after asking God for confirmation, Derek passed a sign with one word in bold letters — ATHENS. In that moment, they knew.
2023
June 2023
As the vision for Brighthouse Church continued to take shape, Derek and Nikki gathered with family and friends to seek God's direction and dedicate the future church to Him. Together they prayed for the city of Athens, for future leaders, for future families, and for every person who would one day walk through the doors of Brighthouse.
2024
September 2024
After months of prayer, preparation, and faith-filled obedience, Brighthouse Church opened its doors for the very first time. What started with a sign, a calling, and a handful of people trusting God had grown into a church ready to serve its city. Launch Sunday marked the beginning of a story that is still being written today.
Now
Today
We believe God is just getting started. What began with a simple act of obedience has grown into a church family committed to helping people know God, find belonging, discover purpose, and radiate His light. As we look ahead, we remain full of faith for what God will continue to do in and through this house, our city, and the generations to come. The story of Brighthouse is still being written — and we are honored to be part of it.
Our Mission
Everything we do is centered on helping people know Jesus, find belonging, discover purpose, and radiate His light wherever they go.
Know God
God wants to know us personally. More than just practicing religion, He wants a relationship with us. Our weekend gatherings are where we focus on that relationship. Whether you're new to faith, have questions, or have been a Christ follower for a long time, our gatherings are a safe place to learn more about what it means to know God and grow closer to Him.
Find Belonging
God created us to do life together. Community Groups are one of the best ways to build meaningful relationships, grow in your faith, and find encouragement along the way. Whether you're new to Brighthouse or have been here for years, there's a place for you to connect, belong, and grow alongside others.
Discover Purpose
God created you with purpose, and discovering that purpose is one of the most important steps in your faith journey. Foundations is designed to help you learn more about Brighthouse Church, understand how God has uniquely gifted you, and take practical next steps toward living out His plan for your life. Whether you're new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, Foundations will help you grow with confidence and clarity.
Radiate Light
God's plan has always been for His people to shine His light and make a difference in the lives of others. At Brighthouse, we call our serving teams Doorholders—a reminder that every role matters in helping people encounter Jesus. Whether you're greeting guests, serving kids, leading a Community Group, leading worship, running production, or helping behind the scenes, there's a place for you to use your gifts and be part of what God is doing through this church and in our community.
Who we are
Our core values are who we are. They aren't just what we do — they're part of our DNA.
It's about Focus
We fix our eyes on Jesus. As we do, our priorities align, our purpose becomes clear, and our lives are transformed.
It's about Love
When love is our foundation, it shapes how we treat people, how we serve, and how we live every day.
It's about Commission
Wherever darkness exists, we step in with purpose, carrying hope, truth, and the light of Jesus to the world around us.
It's about Faith
As we trust God with what's ahead, we stay faithful with what's in front of us, knowing He honors every step of obedience.
It's about Growth
We are committed to becoming more like Jesus, allowing Him to shape our hearts, heal what's broken, and grow us from the inside out.
It's about Community
We create space for people to belong, build meaningful relationships, and grow together in every season.
It's about Sacrifice
We give freely of our time, talent, and resources, trusting that what we place in God's hands makes an eternal impact.
It's about Joy
We choose joy in every season, creating a culture that is life-giving, uplifting, and full of hope.
It's about Authenticity
We believe life change begins with honesty, where people can be fully known and still fully loved.
It's about Creativity
We reflect the heart of our Creator by thinking differently, dreaming boldly, and expressing truth in fresh and compelling ways.
It's about Excellence
As we steward what God has given us, we strive to do things with integrity, purpose, and attention to detail.
It's about Unity
We celebrate what God is doing beyond our walls, working alongside others to advance His Kingdom.
Our Leadership
At Brighthouse Church, our leadership is committed to serving with humility, integrity, and a heart to see people encounter Jesus. We believe leadership is not about position, but about faithfully caring for people and guiding them toward a deeper relationship with Christ. Our pastors and team seek to lead by example—loving God, loving people, and building a church where everyone can grow in faith and purpose as we pursue the vision God has given us to be a light in our city and beyond.
Our Pastors
Pastors Derek and Nikki Dale are the Lead Pastors of Brighthouse Church and share a deep love for the city of Athens and the people who call it home. Together, they are passionate about building a life-giving church where people can encounter Jesus, find belonging, discover their purpose, and radiate His light. They would love the opportunity to meet you and welcome you to Brighthouse soon.
Get to Know Derek and NikkiOur Oversight
Brighthouse Church is guided by trusted spiritual oversight who provide wisdom, accountability, and care.
What we believe
Our beliefs are rooted in Scripture and the historic Christian faith. They shape our teaching, our worship, and the way we love our city.
Good to know
Everything you need to know before your first Sunday at Brighthouse.
We would love to meet you this Sunday at Brighthouse.