Our History

What began as a second site of Olathe Bible Church (now Journey Bible Church in Olathe, KS) has, by God’s grace, grown to become a healthy, vibrant, autonomous church, celebrating 20 years of ministry in Gardner, KS, as of September 2023. From the start it was clear that God had great plans for FBC as we were donated fifteen trailers (100 square feet each) that had been the on-site construction offices during a major building project in Johnson County. The 8.75 acres of land we are on were purchased and the trailers were moved and the next thing you knew, Fellowship Bible Church had a building to call home! It wouldn’t be long until we outgrew the building space and parking lot, so in 2011 we added our current sanctuary and foyer. The need for additional space is approaching as we continue to grow as a church body.

But our history is about more than bricks and mortar. Throughout our first 20 years we have expanded ministries to serve every age and life stage. We’re blessed to have pastors and volunteers serving our youngest children to our oldest adults. The Lord has also opened doors for us to establish international partnerships so we can serve in places like Guatemala, Ethiopia, and the Middle East, as well as local partners in Gardner and the greater Kansas City region. The depth of our fellowship within FBC has only served to increase the breadth of our service outside the walls of FBC.

Looking back prompts us to be thankful to God’s blessings and it prompts us to look ahead asking for God’s continued goodness and grace. Our 20th anniversary also marked a transition of leadership as our founding Pastor, Ty Cross, handed the baton of leadership to then Associate Pastor, Chris Byrley. We are fully assured and confident that Chris is God’s man of choice to serve FBC as Lead Pastor for this next chapter of ministry. From first to last, Fellowship Bible Church is a work of God; his love, strength and wisdom. Looking back only serves to give us hope for what lies ahead.