What is Essential Church?

Essential Church is a Spirit-filled, life-giving, Bible-believing church launching in the Des Moines Metro. Led by Pastors Zach and Ashley Morris, Essential Church exists to build a community marked by authentic Bible preaching, passionate worship, and a family atmosphere where everyone belongs.

Where is Essential Church located?

Essential Church is currently in the launch phase in the Des Moines Metro and Waukee, Iowa area. We are building our launch team, gathering for interest events and prayer, and will announce a permanent location and weekly gathering schedule as we get closer to launch.

When does Essential Church officially launch?

Essential Church is coming in 2026. Between now and launch, we are praying, gathering a launch team, and preparing to build a Spirit-filled, Bible-anchored church home in the Des Moines Metro.

How can I get involved with Essential Church?

You can get involved by joining the launch team, praying with us for Des Moines, and partnering with us in generosity. Visit esntlchurch.com and click 'Join The Family' to connect with our team, join the launch team, or give toward the vision.

What is the vision of Essential Church?

Our vision is to bring the culture of God’s Kingdom to earth—making here look like Heaven. In our homes, schools, neighborhoods, businesses, and city, we carry His presence and reflect His Kingdom.

What kind of church is Essential Church?

Essential Church is a Spirit-filled, Bible-believing, multicultural, multigenerational church that believes everyone is essential. We are committed to seeing the people of our city transformed by the power of God’s presence and carrying the culture of the Kingdom of God into every sector of society.

Your kids are important to God—and to us. At Essential Church, we don’t just watch children… we invest in them. Essential Kids is a life-giving, joy-filled environment where every child is seen, known, and nurtured into the unique person God created them to be. We believe kids can hear God, know His love, and grow in confidence from an early age. We understand that a strong sense of identity is the foundation of security for children growing up in a society that constantly tells them who they should be. Our heart is to partner with parents to help children discover who they are and whose they are.

Kids - Essential Church, Church Waukee IA - 11.26.25

Kids Gradient - Essential Church, Church Waukee IA - 11.26.25

KIDS ARE ESSENTIAL

Essential Kids Black - Essential Church, Church Waukee IA - 11.26.25

Essential Kids Blue - Essential Church, Church Waukee IA - 11.26.25

CULTIVATING CONFIDENT KIDS WHO KNOW WHO THEY ARE AND WHOSE THEY ARE

What You Can Expect

A Safe Environment

Your child’s safety is Essential. Essential Kids will be staffed by trained, background-checked team members who are committed to caring for your children with excellence and intentionality. We will also provide a secure check-in/Check-out system.

A Fun Experience

We believe church should be the highlight of a child’s week. Through age-appropriate lessons, worship, activities, and hands-on creativity, your kids will have fun while growing in their faith.

A Foundation of Faith

We will teach kids the truth of God’s Word in simple, engaging ways that help them build a strong foundation they’ll carry into every season of life.

Essential Kids black circle - Essential Church, Church Waukee IA - 11.26.25

A Partnership With Parents

We believe parents are the primary spiritual leaders in their homes, and we’re here to support you—not replace you. Essential Kids will provide resources to help you continue the conversation at home and lead your children with confidence.