The story of True Zoe Fellowship began in 2006 in a modest classroom in the city of Perris, California. The decision to relocate to Texas came during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We were reflecting on our purpose and values,” Pastor Shannon Flakes said. “Our daughter moved to The Woodlands, and when we visited, I thought, ‘There’s something special here—the trees, the atmosphere, the people.’”
The family soon moved to begin again in a state that better aligned with their values, but waited nearly a year before launching the church in Texas to get acclimated to the community and better understand the local culture and needs.
Rooted in family, built for legacy
Family is central to True Zoe Fellowship’s mission. From its beginnings with just two families in California to its new chapter in Texas, the church has always prioritized legacy and togetherness.
“We’re always thinking about legacy,” Flakes said. “Not just a family legacy for our six children and 13 grandchildren, but a God-centered legacy—one that inspires future generations to grow in faith, family and purpose.”
That belief also shapes their ministry.
“When families thrive, communities flourish under God,” Flakes said. “That’s the kind of life, or ‘Zoe,’ we’re building.”
Living the life God intended
“Zoe,” pronounced “zoy,” is the Greek word for life.
“It’s the vitality of life, the kind of life God intends,”Flakes said. “When we say ‘True Zoe,’ we mean going beyond the norm and living a life that reflects the fullness and purpose God designed for us.”
This idea shapes every aspect of the church’s vision: for every person to experience the life God intended. Its mission? To be the voice of hope, the hands of support and to model the heart of truth for the transformation of lives for the kingdom.
These values are further embodied in the church’s core principles, summarized by the acronym rare: radical, accountable, relational and excellence. From the structure of their services to their community outreach, True Zoe Fellowship seeks to cultivate a culture that reflects these values both inside and outside the church walls.
Services and Bible studies
True Zoe Fellowship holds Sunday services at Irons Junior High at 11 a.m. and Wednesday Bible study conducted via Zoom at 7:15 p.m. These are livestreamed, which can be accessed online or through the True Zoe Fellowship app.
True Zoe Fellowship is preparing to relocate to a new physical space at 8812 Fawn Trail in Conroe later this summer where they will hold the services and Bible study.
“We’re working toward offering both in-person and online Bible study to increase participation and access,” the pastor said.
Services at True Zoe Fellowship are a blend of heartfelt worship and practical teaching.
“Praise and worship break down barriers,” Flakes said. “We’re also educators. We want people to leave not just moved, but equipped to live successfully throughout the week.”
True Zoe Fellowship also has a children’s ministry called “Zoe Kids.” Their purpose is to nurture children in a loving Christ-centered environment where biblical truth meets emotional and character growth. They are committed to helping each child grow in character and purpose by teaching them how to love God, love others, and love themselves through God’s word by combining social emotional learning and biblical principles.
Caring for the whole person
True Zoe Fellowship takes a holistic approach to ministry, recognizing that spiritual growth goes hand-in-hand with mental and emotional well-being.
Co-pastor Alisa Flakes, a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience, leads the church’s efforts in providing mental health support, marriage counseling and parenting resources.
The church offers programs designed to nurture the whole person—body, mind and spirit—believing that when individuals are cared for in all these areas, they are better equipped to live healthy, balanced and fulfilling lives.
Experience True Zoe
At True Zoe Fellowship, “Zoe” means more than just life; it also means togetherness. Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth, family support or simply a welcoming place to belong, True Zoe Fellowship Church invites you to join them.
To learn more or get involved, visit the True Zoe Fellowship website or attend a service at Irons Junior High, located at 16780 Needham Road, Conroe.
The above story was produced by Community Impact's Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel, with information solely provided by the local business as part of its "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
