Breakthrough Church is not simply an idea or ministry strategy — it is the natural overflow of God’s work in my life and His clear calling to serve Eau Claire for the glory of His Kingdom.

My name is Tanton Schnider, and The Lord has called me to serve Him by to launching a new church called Breakthrough in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. In 2017, while living in Eau Claire, I experienced a personal return to faith after a season of hurt, loss, and spiritual distance. Through God’s grace, I encountered Jesus in a deeply transformative way, and that experience continues to shape my heart for people who feel disconnected from God or the Church.

Following that transformation, I served full-time at Red Cedar Church in a variety of ministry areas including youth, hospitality, outreach, young adults, and facilities. Those years gave me valuable hands-on ministry experience and helped confirm my calling to pastoral leadership and church planting. Red Cedar Church now serves as the sending church for Breakthrough Church.

To continue growing as a leader, I attended Kingswood University in Sussex, New Brunswick, where I earned my pastoral degree. During that season, God repeatedly placed church planting on my heart. Although I considered other locations, God continually redirected me back to Eau Claire and deepened my burden for the city.

Why Eau Claire? Because this city represents both part of my story and a growing community filled with people searching for hope, purpose, and authentic connection.

Why start a church? Because church planting remains one of the most effective ways to reach people far from God. Breakthrough Church exists to create welcoming spaces where people can encounter Jesus, experience authentic community, and discover the transforming breakthrough found only in Him.