South West District

Fresh Expressions

Creative, courageous, and deeply relational.

Welcome to your local hub for Fresh Expressions support, connection, and inspiration.

From the coastal beauty of Naples to the growing neighborhoods of Fort Myers, the South West District is full of people exploring new ways to be the church—right where life happens. Whether you’re gathering around a dinner table, meeting in a park, or dreaming up a new expression of community, you’re not alone.

This page is designed to help you:

Get connected with others in the district
Find upcoming events and trainings
Access tools to support your Fresh Expression
Meet the team walking alongside you

Take your time exploring what’s available here.
We're here to help you take the next faithful step—whatever that looks like in your context.

Upcoming Events

Brett DeHart

South West District Cultivator

Meet your South West District Cultivator

Dancing with the Spirit, Leading with Heart

Brett DeHart brings over 20 years of pastoral experience to the work of resourcing Fresh Expressions in the South West District. From congregations of 25 to 1,800, Brett has consistently stepped into churches whose “glory days” felt behind them—and helped spark new vitality through faithful experimentation and Spirit-led innovation.

With a deep passion for reaching new people, Brett has helped start and sustain a variety of Fresh Expressions, including Messy Church, Recovery Church, Dinner Church, and more. He collaborates closely with lay leaders to adapt each approach to the unique DNA of every community, igniting renewed mission and Kingdom impact.

Known as a “positive deviant,” Brett enjoys dancing with the Holy Spirit beyond the boundaries of what's expected.

His leadership has been recognized with the 2023 Harry Denman Evangelism Award in the North Georgia Conference. While serving at Austell First UMC, the church was honored as Business of the Year for its service during the city’s historic 2009 flood.

Internationally, Brett carries a heart for ministry in Cuba and Venezuela. He holds a B.S. in Communications from Florida State University and an M.Div. from Candler School of Theology at Emory University.

Brett and his wife, Candy—high school sweethearts—have been married for over 30 years. They are proud parents of a clinical dietician and a pilot.

South West Team

This is an open team for anyone in the district who wants to explore Fresh Expressions. Whether you’re just curious or already leading something new, you’re welcome here.