About Us
 
 
History of Victory
 
Victory began in 1998, when the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) called Pastor Phil Hoyer and Staff Minister Brent Bitter to start a new congregation in Jacksonville. The small group of Christians worshiped at the University of North Florida and rented a small ministry center before building its current facilty in 2005. In 2008, Victory opened its preschool. Then, in 2011, Mr. Bitter took a call to serve elsewhere in the WELS. In 2019, Pastor Hoyer retired and Pastor Troy Schreiner accepted the call to take his place. About a year later, Mrs. Anne Grotefend accepted the call to serve as preschool director. As the congregation and preschool grew, the need arose once again for more staff. In 2023, staff ministry graduate Jarrett Mielke was assigned to Victory by the WELS Assignment Committee. Not only that, but it also led to the need for more classrooms, up to a total of four portable rooms in 2024, allowing Victory’ preschool progarm to nearly double the amount of students served. In the spring of 2024, Pastor Schreiner accepted the call to serve as Dean of Students at Michigan Lutheran Seminary. Near the end of that same year, Pastor Jonathan Kolander accepted the call to shepherd Victory. Today, by the grace of God, the ministry of Victory Lutheran Church and Preschool continues to grow, serving more and more souls in the Jacksonville area.
 
Frequently Asked Questions
 
Click to expand/collapse.

Where does Victory get its name?

Our name comes from 1 Corinthians 15:57: “Thanks be to God! He gives us the VICTORY through our Lord Jesus Christ!”

What does Victory believe?

Like all WELS congregations, Victory recognizes the Bible as the inerrant Word of God. Visit our What We Believe page to discover more details about what our congregation teaches.

What is the purpose of this church?

Victory provides opportunities for people to learn about their great God, to develop strong friendships with other Christians and to serve their Savior with their time and talents.

Our Mission Statement:
“Winning Souls for Christ, and Coaching Christians for Life.”

Who attends this church?

A mix of religious backgrounds, cultures, and life-stages are all represented at Victory. Over 150 worshipers gather each weekend to explore, grow in, and celebrate the blessing of life through Jesus Christ.

How do I become a member of Victory?

Church membership is important. It connects you closely to a family of believers and shows your commitment to your Savior. Those interested in becoming a member of Victory are asked to complete our Bible Information Class called The Foundation of our Faith with pastor and other interested participants. This short class is an opportunity for you to grow spiritually, gain a better understanding of the truths of God’s Word, and determine whether you share the same faith as the members at Victory. It’s also a time for you to get to know our pastor better, and a time for pastor to get to know you better, as well as a chance to get to know some of the other new members of the Victory family.

What is worship like at Victory?

Victory is a traditional Lutheran church which uses a liturgy with a blend of familiar Christian hymns and contemporary Christian songs. The piano and the organ are the main instruments used in worship, but other instrumentalists are often used to complement your worship experience.

Will I need to sign anything or stand up when I come for the first time?

Not at all! Please visit, relax, enjoy, mingle, and get a feel of what this congregation is like! You are invited to enjoy a cup of coffee and a snack in the narthex before worship. Connection Cards are found in each bulletin and give you the opportunity to request more information about the church if you like. We promise that you won’t be embarrassed or put on the spot when you visit Victory. Come and make yourself at home!

What does Victory have for my kids?

Victory offers a variety of programs for kids of every age. First and foremost, our Victory Preschool provides highly-rated programs for 3- & 4-year-olds. Contact Director Anne Grotefend with questions. Additionally, Children’s Church teaches important Bible stories to kids ages 3–5 every Sunday during worship. Confirmation Class provides a solid foundation of the Bible’s teachings for 7th & 8th graders. Victory Youth Group provides 4th–9th graders an opportunity to have fun and build relationships in low-pressure get togethers. There is something to include everyone in the family!

What does it mean to be a WELS congregation?

Victory is a member congregation of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). This means we share a common faith and mission with more than 1,200 other congregations. WELS churches work together in a variety of ways to share the Gospel all over the world.

Can I receive Communion at Victory?

We ask that only members of WELS and ELS churches or members of a synod in fellowship with the WELS and ELS commune at Victory. Please read through our What We Believe page to understand our view of communion and speak with our pastor before receiving communion. Communion is offered on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month. If you do come to the front for communion, you can be assured that ushers will help you get there and back to your seats comfortably.

Still have questions?
Please email us: