20 Years of Elevation Church: Celebrating Two Decades of Faith, Growth, and Global Impact

In 2026, Elevation Church marks 20 powerful years of ministry two decades of lives transformed, faith strengthened, and the gospel carried far beyond the walls of a church building. What began as a small step of obedience has grown into a global movement impacting millions around the world.

Elevation Church was founded in August 2006 in Charlotte, North Carolina, by Pastor Steven Furtick and a small group of believers who shared a bold vision: to reach people far from God and help them grow into fully devoted followers of Christ.

The church started with no building, no guaranteed funding, and no fame—just faith, prayer, and a deep dependence on God. From the very beginning, Elevation Church was rooted in the belief that God could do exceedingly abundantly above all they could ask or imagine.

Over the past 20 years, Elevation Church has become known for practical, faith-building messages that meet people where they are. Through Pastor Steven Furtick’s teaching, themes like grace, purpose, resilience, identity in Christ, and trusting God in uncertainty have reached hearts across generations.

What sets Elevation apart is its emphasis on:

Biblical truth applied to real-life challenges

Worship that draws people into God’s presence

Creating space for imperfect people to encounter a perfect God

While Elevation Church began in Charlotte, its impact is now global. Through online services, social media, and digital platforms, people from different nations—including Africa—have found encouragement, healing, and spiritual growth through Elevation’s ministry.

Elevation Worship, the church’s music ministry, has also played a major role in spreading the message of hope. Songs like O Come to the Altar, Graves Into Gardens, Do It Again, and Same God have become anthems in churches worldwide.

Lives Changed, Not Just Numbers Grown

As Elevation Church celebrates 20 years, the true testimony isn’t found in attendance numbers or buildings—it’s found in changed lives:

People discovering their purpose in Christ

Families restored

Faith renewed in seasons of struggle

Believers stepping into leadership and service

Elevation’s heart for outreach, generosity, and discipleship continues to reflect Jesus’ command to love God and love people.

Looking Ahead with Gratitude and Faith

Twenty years is a milestone worth celebrating, but Elevation Church continues to look forward—not backward. With gratitude for the past and faith for the future, the mission remains the same: to see lives transformed by the power of Jesus Christ.

As Elevation Church celebrates its 20th anniversary, it stands as a reminder that when God gives a vision and people respond in obedience, the impact can echo for generations.

Here’s to 20 years of faith, worship, growth, and global influence—and to many more years of walking boldly in God’s purpose.