GIVE

About Us

Lighthouse on the Rock is a church that is Built on the Rock to Shine the Light of Christ.

For locals, the Rock is what they call Key Largo, but Jesus also told his followers that he would build his church on the faith of those who believed in him. Like a lighthouse, we have a mission to see the love of Jesus revealed to every inhabitant of the Upper Keys by proclaiming and living out the life of Jesus… and then onward to the nations!

Church History

The history of Lighthouse on the Rock Church is a testament to faith, perseverance, and community spirit. The church’s journey began in the early 1980s when a small group of dedicated individuals sought to revitalize a dwindling congregation in Tavernier.

Early Beginnings

In 1981, two couples played a pivotal role in the church’s formation. They attended home meetings led by Pastor Dave Martz from Marathon, which attracted more people than their previous church services. These meetings alternated between homes in Key Largo and Marathon, fostering a growing community of believers.

Growth and Transitions

As the congregation grew, they began meeting in the Key Largo School Cafeteria. During this time, worship was led by two dedicated members, with one playing the piano.

The church has been blessed with four pastoral families throughout its history:

  • Pastor Russ and Judy Cockrum

  • Pastor Ed and Marti Thames

  • Pastor Eric and Janeen Fisher

  • Pastor Tim and Lauren Spears (current)

The church has worshipped in various locations over the years:

  • Key Largo School Cafeteria

  • A room above a bank in Key Largo

  • The Key Lime Building at mile marker 95

  • The Corks and Curds and Wine building

  • Current location (property sold by Chris Sante)

The church’s growth and development have been marked by instances of divine provision. Notable examples include:

  • The sale of an unbuildable lot to the county, which helped pay off the church building

  • Contributions from a disabled girl named Rebecca, who collected money in a five-gallon jug during Sunday services

This history reflects the church’s commitment to spreading the Gospel and serving the Key Largo community, demonstrating how a small group of dedicated believers can grow into a thriving congregation through faith and perseverance.

Leadership

Tim and Lauren Spears began to pastor at Lighthouse on the Rock Church in late Summer 2024 and are still pinching themselves that they get to pastor such an amazing group of people while living in paradise! They previously lived in Martinsburg, W.V. and elsewhere in Maryland and Northern Virginia. They have ministered as lead, associate, worship, and youth pastors for over 15 years. They have 5 kids, ranging from 4–17, and an energetic Australian Shepherd that keeps them busy. They believe God has called them to minister as a team for the mission of God in Key Largo!

Pastor Tim Spears

Pastor Tim serves as the Lead Pastor at Lighthouse on the Rock. He has the awesome job of proclaiming, teaching, and pointing people to Jesus. He loves to see those “eureka” moments where someone realizes who Jesus is and walks the road to transformation. Although growing up as a military brat, Tim called suburban Maryland home for most of his childhood and attended the University of Maryland, College Park for his undergrad. It was there that God grabbed hold of him and called him to ministry. He went on to graduate from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary after studying Missions and Biblical Theology – focusing on the Kingdom of God. His life verse is from Revelation 14:4 and he has set himself to “follow the Lamb, wherever He goes.” Tim is loving being on the water, and as time allows enjoys hiking, camping, and staring at the night sky.

Pastor Lauren Spears

Pastor Lauren serves as the Worship Pastor at Lighthouse on the Rock and has been leading worship for over twenty years. She also loves to preach and teach when not leading worship. Some time ago, God gave her a vision to bridge the gap between the generations regarding worship styles, and she strives to make that happen at Lighthouse. Lauren received her Bachelor’s degree in Christian Ministry from Regent University in Virginia Beach, VA, where she graduated summa cum laude in May of 2024. She also micro-credentialed in Systematic Theology and Biblical and Theological Foundations of Worship. The favorite part of her job is helping people find Jesus and she loves to see how God works in their lives and helps them recognize how good He is! Lauren has picked up paddleboarding after moving to Key Largo and loves the water, hiking, and being outdoors. When not outdoors, she likes to read and snuggle up on the couch to watch a good show or movie. She is also a foodie and loves to eat and try new foods!

Beliefs

Our church is affiliated with the Peninsular Florida District Council of the Assemblies of God.
You can find a statement of our fundamental beliefs here:

statement of our fundamental beliefs