Hi, I’m Nicole Rice.
I’ve been on this wild and wonderful journey in ministry for 15+ years and as a U.S. Missionary since 2016. I’m beyond excited to step into my new role serving with the West Florida Ministry Network of the Assemblies of God as the Thrive Evangelism Director and the Network’s Seek & Save Director. Thrive is an initiative created by the West Florida Ministry Network of the Assemblies of God that exists to help churches grow into thriving Assemblies by fulfilling the Great Commission through evangelism and discipleship. Seek & Save is an initiative created by the General Council Assemblies of God U.S. Missions Department with the vision of sharing the love and gospel of Jesus to ignite a ripple effect of positive change in communities all over the United States of America (https://seekandsave.ag.org).
My heart has always been about building bridges and showing love in all its forms to the lost, hurting, and vulnerable among us. My primary missions focus in this new dual-role is to reach the lost through the development and implementation of strategic outreach initiatives that target vulnerable populations, unreached people groups, and the un-churched at large in Northwest Florida.
For 10 years, I served as the Founder, President, & CEO of Lavished Ministries Inc where my mission was to shine a light into the darkest corners of the world, reaching women who have been overlooked, forgotten, and deeply hurt—especially those affected by human trafficking. We lead over 500 outreaches, made over 18,000 points of contact with vulnerable women and children, and were able to assist over 200 individuals come out of trafficking or abusive situations.
But my story didn’t begin there.
Growing up, I had a heart for people on the margins, those who felt like they didn’t belong. I’ve always believed that each person has an incredible, unique value—a reflection of the Creator Himself. Now, I’m shifting gears a little—reaching and supporting people across a bigger region, but the passion is still the same!
Looking Forward
As I look to the future, my vision is for every person to know their worth and walk in freedom, no longer bound by the chains of their past. I am looking forward to reaching individuals with the Gospel, serving vulnerable populations from Tallahassee to Pensacola, and offering support to the West Florida Ministry Network and 60 network-affiliated churches.
This journey hasn’t always been easy, but it has been filled with moments of deep purpose, connection, and love. My hope is that through my new roles at Thrive Assemblies, the West Florida Ministry Network, and with my husband Darian by my side, we can continue to break down barriers, serve people, share the Gospel, and be a part of God’s beautiful story of redemption.
Thank you for walking this road with me. Together, we are making a difference—one life at a time.
Nicole Phillips Rice
Thrive Evangelism Director & The West Florida AG Ministry Network’s Seek & Save Director