HIGHLANDS COLLEGE BECAME the launching ground for Gabe and Breanna Rivera, equipping them to step confidently into their God-given purpose as pastors in one of America’s most spiritually underserved communities.

“Palm Beach County is the most unchurched county in America. We had no idea we were signing up for this kind of challenge—but that’s what I love about it. It’s a mission every single day,” Gabe shared.

“There are 50-year-old men in my Bible study who have never opened up a Bible—never owned one, never even stepped into a church,” Gabe shares. “The challenge is helping these men realize that while they may have everything financially, they still need Jesus spiritually. Once they understand that, they’ll realize that life with Jesus is better. There’s fulfillment, purpose, and transformation beyond what comfort or success can give. I do this because I want to see their eyes light up with the revelation that Jesus is worth more.”

Since starting their positions in the middle of COVID-19 in 2020, the Riveras reflect on how the rhythm and rigor of their education at Highlands College practically built their capacity and prepared them for longevity in ministry.

“I’ve seen God use my desire to give my all to ministry as a student to prepare me for what I’m doing now,” Breanna shared. “Highlands College was the best training ground because I was surrounded by leaders, pastors, and support systems that tested my limits and stretched my capacity in a safe environment. Now, when a big week of events hits, I’m not thrown off—I’ve already lived it.”

Gabe adds, “The best thing we did to prepare for our current-day ministry was pushing ourselves hard as students at Highlands College. Leaders and faculty poured into us, teaching us what we could endure and how to endure it with excellence. Ministry can be tough, but our resilience can be built. When I face long or intense days now, I think back to the previous season and remember—if I could do it then, I can do it now.”

Now, four years into their full-time ministry roles, the Riveras celebrate the fruit they’ve seen as a result of their training, perseverance, and the movement of God.

Since its launch, Faith Church’s Florida campuses have seen more than double regular attendance, with over 800 people gathering for Easter weekend this year and more than 70 making decisions for Christ.

“One of the most powerful moments recently was seeing a single mom and her six children decide to get baptized together,” Breanna shared. “They found our campus just a few weeks ago after driving by and seeing our signs outside. What started as a casual curiosity turned into a life-changing encounter with Jesus—and now, they haven’t missed a weekend in almost two months.”

“We’ve seen marriages restored,” Gabe shared. “One couple went from years of spiritual separation to serving together faithfully, even with the husband receiving a church award for outstanding service.”

Watching God transform lives keeps Gabe and Breanna passionate about the mission. “Every new connection and life change reveals that the harvest is plentiful—and God is on the move. The call to ministry isn’t a job to us—it’s a response to the love we’ve encountered,” Gabe shares. “Seeing lives changed, marriages restored, people finding hope and freedom reminds us daily why we said ‘yes’ to this journey.”

Breanna adds, “Generosity is building the future of the Church. Each investment into Highlands College produces lasting fruit—and we are living proof.” ■