Menu

Josh Hatcher

About Josh Hatcher

http://joshhatcher.com

Josh Hatcher is the Communications Director at Open Arms Community Church. He is married to Pastor Zoe Hatcher, and leads the Tribe of Lions Microchurch for men. He also is the founder of Manlihood.com

Posts by Josh Hatcher:

bishop john okinda and rev pamela okinda

🌍 Special Guests from Kenya at Open Arms – Sunday, June 22

, 0

This Sunday, June 22, 2025, we are honored to welcome Bishop Dr. John Okinda and Rev. Pamela Okinda from Migori, Kenya, as our special guests at Open Arms Church in Bradford, PA.

They will be sharing during both of our Sunday services at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM at our new location:
📍 71 Congress Street, Bradford, PA

✨ Voices of Global Impact

Bishop John and Rev. Pamela are visionary leaders whose ministry in Kenya is transforming lives. Together, they’ve built a thriving church that now serves over 800 people, an orphanage that cares for 110 children, and a school that provides life-changing education.

Bishop John currently serves as the Presiding Bishop of PEFA Church Kenya, overseeing ministry throughout the nation. Rev. Pamela leads Hope for Girls KE, a powerful initiative focused on empowering young girls with hope, love, and purpose.

Their story is one of deep faith, sacrificial service, and global mission—and now you have the chance to hear it firsthand.

🤝 Come Be Part of This Powerful Morning

This is more than a visit—it’s a reminder that God is moving all around the world. Whether you’re part of the Open Arms family or looking for a church home, this Sunday is the perfect opportunity to experience something special.

🗓️ Sunday, June 22, 2025
🕘 Services at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM
📍 71 Congress Street, Bradford, PA

👉 Plan your visit now: https://openarmscommunitychurch.org/visit

We can’t wait to see you this Sunday at Open Arms Church in Bradford, PA—a place where hope, healing, and purpose come alive.

things to do in bradford pa

You’re Invited: Church In Town – Outdoor Worship, Free Lunch, and Family Fun!

, , 0

We’ve been busy these past several months—unpacking boxes, settling into our new home at 71 Congress Street, and getting out into Bradford to meet our neighbors. Now it’s time for something special. We’re throwing open the doors (and stepping outside them!) to say: come worship with us!

On Sunday, June 29 at 10:00 AM, join us right in our church parking lot for Church In Town—a joyful outdoor worship service, free community lunch, and activities for kids of all ages. Whether you’ve never been to church or haven’t been in years, this event is for you.

“The mission of Open Arms Community Church is Real People Helping People Become More Like Jesus as a Family,” says Lead Pastor Zoe Hatcher. “To help people grow in faith, we have to follow the example of Jesus—He moved into the neighborhood and met people where they were. That’s what we want to do.”

For many years, we’ve hosted Church Around Town, where we’d pack up our gear and bring church to local parks, the town square, and other spots throughout Bradford. We did it because we wanted to reach people where they were. But now, something exciting has changed: we’re already there.

Now that Open Arms is located right in the heart of the city, we don’t have to go far to bring church to town—we’re in town! So this year, we’re starting a new tradition: Church In Town—a celebration that brings our neighborhood together to worship, connect, and share a meal right here at our new home.

You’ll experience:

  • A down-to-earth worship service with live music and a practical, hope-filled message
  • A free lunch served immediately after the service
  • Fun activities for kids, so families can relax and enjoy the morning together
  • A chance to meet new people, hear God’s Word, and experience love without pressure or pretense

Pastor Dan Robinson puts it this way:

“Some people give church buildings a bad rap, like just because they don’t always attend, they may not be welcome inside the building. By inviting people to our location in the heart of the city, we are creating a welcoming environment where people can come, relax, hear God’s word, and meet a new family who is ready to welcome them with open arms—no pun intended. It’s easy to come to an outdoor event! Show up, say hi, and have a bite to eat!”

We believe church should feel like family—and family starts with connection. So come as you are. Bring your kids. Bring a friend. Grab a chair or blanket. And join us for a summer Sunday full of faith, food, and fun.

We can’t wait to meet you!

Men's Event - Self Defense

Forge Night: Tribe of Lions Hosts Self-Defense Seminar for Men and Teen Boys

, , 0

In today’s world, knowing how to protect yourself and others is more than just useful—it’s essential. That’s why Tribe of Lions, one of Open Arms Community Church’s microchurches, is hosting a special Forge Night event focused on men’s self-defense.

📅 Wednesday, June 18
🕕 6:00–7:30 PM
📍 Miller’s Kenpo Karate Dojo – 443 East Main Street, Bradford PA
💵 Suggested Donation: $10
👥 Open to all men and teen boys

This Forge Night will be led by Mike Miller, a seasoned martial arts instructor and owner of Miller’s Kenpo Karate Dojo. Participants will learn basic self-defense techniques, situational awareness, and the mindset needed to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Forge Nights are a monthly initiative by Tribe of Lions, blending practical skill-building with authentic community. While Tribe of Lions meets regularly to study scripture and grow in faith, Forge Nights create an intentional space where men can gather, learn, and build brotherhood—without pressure.

“Discipleship isn’t just about what we believe—it’s about how we live,” says Josh Hatcher, who leads Tribe of Lions. “Learning how to defend yourself is part of becoming a strong and responsible man. And doing it together is part of building strong community.”

This is one of many Forge Nights planned this year. Past events have included car maintenance basics, and upcoming nights will cover BBQ skills, first aid, and more. Each one offers a chance for men to grow—not just spiritually, but in everyday life.

👉 Learn more about Tribe of Lions and other microchurches here.

encounter weekend Bradford PA - church development network

Encounter Weekend: Discover Your Calling. Multiply the Mission.

, , 0

June 20–21 at Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA

Have you felt a stirring in your heart — a sense that God is calling you to something more?

Encounter Weekend is a two-day experience designed to help you do just that: seek God’s voice, discover your calling, and take practical steps to multiply your impact for the Kingdom. Encounter Weekend takes place June 20–21 at Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA, and you’re invited — no matter what church or denomination you come from.

👉 Reserve your spot now

What Is Encounter Weekend?

Encounter Weekend is more than just a training. It’s an opportunity to encounter the Holy Spirit, hear from experienced disciple-makers and church planters, and walk away equipped with tools to start something new — whether that’s a small group, a microchurch, a ministry, or a whole new church expression.

If you’ve ever thought…

  • “I feel called to lead, but I don’t know where to start…”
  • “I want to make disciples, not just attend church…”
  • “I think God is calling me to start something new…”

…then Encounter Weekend is for you.

The Vision: Multiplication

Jesus didn’t call us to gather people just to fill a building. He called us to go and make disciples — to reproduce faith, leaders, and spiritual communities that multiply and reach every corner of the world.

That’s the heart behind Encounter Weekend. You’ll be invited to consider:

What would it look like to multiply what God is doing in me… into others?

We’ll walk through a practical, Spirit-led framework for launching missional movements — whether that’s in your neighborhood, workplace, school, or city.

Microchurches & More

At Open Arms, part of how we live out this mission is through microchurches — small, simple communities of faith that meet outside the four walls of Sunday church. You’ll learn more about that model and how it might inspire your own next steps.

But this isn’t just about Open Arms.
Encounter Weekend is for anyone with a heart to see God’s Kingdom grow.

If you’re from another church, ministry, or background — you are welcome here. You’ll gain biblical insight, strategic tools, and a clear picture of what it means to be part of a multiplying movement.

👉Learn more about microchurches here

Details & Registration

📍 Location: Open Arms Community Church, 71 Congress Street, Bradford, PA
📅 Dates: Friday–Saturday, June 20–21
🔗 Register Here

Cost is free — but space is limited, and registration is required.

God Is Moving. Will You Move With Him?

We’ve been praying for you — and we believe God is calling a new wave of leaders, planters, and disciple-makers to rise up.

This is your invitation to listen for His voice. To be equipped. And to multiply.

Say yes.

At Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA, we’re passionate about helping people find hope, healing, and purpose — and multiplying that mission through everyday people like you. Whether it’s through Sunday services, microchurches, or ministry training, our heart is to empower you to live on mission with Jesus.

Things to do in Bradford PA at Open Arms Community Church

What’s Happening in June at Open Arms Community Church

, 0

June is packed with incredible opportunities to connect, grow, and take your next step at Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA! From a brand new teaching series to special guest speakers and community events, there’s something for every age and stage. Here’s a look at what’s ahead:

New Series: Action Required

All month long, we invite you to be part of our new series, Action Required. Each Sunday, you’ll be challenged to move beyond belief and step boldly into a life of practical faith. Bring a friend and come ready to be inspired!

Keystone Annual Conference

Sunday, June 1 | 6:30 PM | Pleasantville Camp
Join us as we celebrate a sacred milestone—regional leaders will be ordained at the Keystone Annual Conference. Let’s support and pray for these leaders as they step into their calling!

The Okindas Visit

June 17–24
We’re honored to welcome Bishop John and Rev. Pamela Okinda for a full week of ministry. Make plans to join us on Sunday, June 22 when Bishop John will bring a special message to the church family.

Encounter Weekend

June 20–21
Don’t miss this powerful, Spirit-filled weekend! Encounter Weekend is designed to help you discover your calling and take your next step as a disciple-maker. It’s the perfect chance to seek God, connect with others, and grow deeper in faith.

Church In Town (Formerly Church Around Town)

Sunday, June 29 | 10:00 AM | Parking Lot at 71 Congress Street
Worship with us outdoors and stay for a free community lunch immediately following the service. This is a fantastic event to invite your friends, neighbors, and the Bradford community!

Want More Ways to Connect?

Looking for smaller groups or gatherings during the week?
Check out what’s happening this month with our Open Arms Microchurches!
👉 See the full Microchurch June schedule here

We’d love to see you every Sunday at 9AM & 11AM at 71 Congress Street in Bradford, PA. For event details and the latest updates, visit oachurch.com or follow us on social media @openarmsbradford.

This June, discover hope, healing, and purpose at Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA—your place to take the next step in your journey of faith.

june 2025 things to do in bradford pa church

What’s Happening in June with Our Open Arms Microchurches

, , , 0

Looking for real connection, spiritual growth, and a place where you can truly belong? Open Arms Microchurches meet in homes and unique spaces all around Bradford, PA—and there’s a seat at the table for you! Here’s everything happening in June:

Least of These Riders

  • June 3 | 6:30 PM: Meet at Charlie’s Cycle Shop (Minard Run)
  • June 10 & 24 | 6:30 PM: Meet at Robinson’s House (Lewis Run)
  • June 17 | 6:30 PM: Men & women meet separately (Location TBA)

ENGAGE Prayer

  • Every Monday | 6:00 PM: Go deeper in prayer with us at Open Arms (71 Congress St).

Promises of God Group

  • Every Wednesday | 6:30 PM: 17 Vista Circle, Bradford

New Believers Group

  • Every Thursday | 6:30 PM: 65 North Center St, Bradford

EmpowHer (Women’s Group)

  • Every Thursday | 6–8 PM: Downstairs at Open Arms (71 Congress St)

Tribe of Lions (Men’s Microchurch)

  • June 2 & 23 | 6:30 PM: Men’s group meets downstairs at Open Arms
  • June 9 | 6:30 PM: Prayer Walk & Litter Pickup (meet at Open Arms)
  • June 18 | 6:00–7:30 PM: Men’s Self Defense Seminar at Miller’s Dojo (East Main St)
  • June 30 | 6:30 PM: Bonfire and Fireworks

Youth Group (Grades 6-12)

  • June 1 & 29 | 6–8 PM: Regular gathering at Open Arms (71 Congress St)
  • June 22 | 6–8 PM: Ice Cream Social at Foster Brook Creamery

Sunday Dinner (Young Adults)

  • June 1 & 29 | 5:00 PM: Dinner and a fire (869 W Washington St)
  • June 22 | 5:00 PM: Dinner with Bishop John & Rev. Pamela Okinda
  • June 8 & 15: No meetings (Annual Conference & Father’s Day)

No matter who you are, there’s a group for you to plug into this June!

Want to learn more or get connected? Visit openarmscommunitychurch.org/microchurches for all the details and locations.

Find friendship, faith, and a true sense of community at Open Arms Microchurches—part of Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA.

Annual Conference

Celebrate with Us: Keystone Annual Conference Ordination Service

, 0

Sunday, June 8 | 6:30 PM | Pleasantville Camp

Every year, the Keystone Annual Conference brings together Free Methodist churches from across our region for a time of worship, fellowship, and important milestones. This year’s conference is extra special for Open Arms Community Church, as some of our own members will be recognized and commissioned to step into new ministry roles.

The ordination service is a powerful moment to witness leaders being prayed over, blessed, and officially appointed to serve in their unique callings. It’s also an opportunity for all of us to rally around them with encouragement, prayer, and our presence.

We encourage everyone from Open Arms to come out, show support, and celebrate this exciting chapter for our church family!

Event Details:

Let’s fill the room with love, gratitude, and hope for the future as we cheer on those answering God’s call to ministry. Whether you’re a regular attender, new to Open Arms, or simply want to celebrate with us, you are welcome!

Night of Worship - Ignite Church Lewis Run PA

Join Us for a Night of Praise & Worship at Ignite Church

, 0

Saturday, May 31 | 5:30–7:00 PM | Ignite Church, Lewis Run, PA

We’re excited to invite you—and the whole Bradford area—to a special Night of Praise and Worship at Ignite Church in Lewis Run!

This event is a beautiful opportunity for our Open Arms family, along with other local churches and the community, to come together and celebrate what God is doing in our region. We’ll lift our voices, worship together, and enjoy a powerful evening focused on unity and gratitude.

Whether you attend Open Arms Community Church, Ignite Church, another congregation, or are simply looking for a meaningful night of encouragement and connection, you’re welcome to join us. Let’s fill Ignite Church with joyful praise and support one another as the greater church family.

Event Details:

Invite your friends and neighbors—let’s make this a night to remember. We can’t wait to worship with you in Lewis Run!

Memorial Day 2025 Bradford PA

Honoring Our Heroes: Community Memorial Day Parade & Service

, 0

Monday, May 26 | Parade at 10:00 AM | Ceremony at Veterans Square, Bradford, PA

As Memorial Day approaches, we invite our Open Arms family and the Bradford community to gather in remembrance of the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.

The annual Memorial Day Parade begins at 10:00 AM and leads to Veterans Square. Immediately after the parade—usually around 11:00 AM—the community Memorial Day ceremony will take place.

This is more than just a tradition; it’s a moment to pause, reflect, and express our gratitude for those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It’s an opportunity for us to show up together, honoring our fallen heroes and supporting their families.

Pastor Zoe Hatcher will be part of this year’s service, and we encourage everyone from Open Arms to attend and support our community. Let’s stand united in gratitude, honor, and remembrance.

All are welcome—bring your family, invite a friend, and join us as we honor our heroes together.

Basic Car Maintenance for Men - Forge Night - Tribe of Lions

Faith, Fellowship, and Fresh Oil: Tribe of Lions Hosts Hands-On Forge Night

, , 0

Life is full of little things every man should know—but too often, we don’t get the chance to learn them. That’s why Tribe of Lions, one of Open Arms Community Church’s microchurches, is teaming up with Manlihood to host a special Forge Night all about basic car maintenance.

Monday, May 12 at 6:30 PM, men and teen boys from across the Bradford area are invited to gather in the Open Arms parking lot at 71 Congress Street for a no-pressure, hands-on experience that will leave you feeling more equipped and confident under the hood.

🔥 What’s a Forge Night?

Forge Nights are a unique part of Tribe of Lions’ rhythm—monthly gatherings where men come together not just for spiritual growth, but to sharpen one another in practical ways, too. Whether it’s learning to grill a steak, defend yourself, or change your oil, the goal is the same: community, brotherhood, and purpose.

This month’s Forge Night will be led by Brian Mahaney, a longtime mechanic who’s passionate about passing on what he’s learned. But this isn’t a lecture—it’s a shared experience. Other men will also be contributing what they know as we tackle real-world skills like:

  • How to check and change your oil
  • Tire maintenance and pressure checks
  • Jump-starting a car
  • Recognizing basic vehicle issues

Whether you’ve never popped the hood before or just want a refresher, this night is for you.

🛠️ Why It Matters

Tribe of Lions is more than just a men’s group—it’s a microchurch. That means it carries the full mission of the church in a smaller setting, with an emphasis on worship, community, and mission. We believe that real discipleship happens not just in rows, but in circles—and sometimes even under the hood of a car.

We also believe in meeting men where they are. That’s why Forge Nights are intentionally designed to be open to any man or teen boy in the community—whether you’ve been walking with God for years or you’re just looking for some solid guys to connect with.

These events are co-hosted by Manlihood, a men’s movement and podcast founded by Josh Hatcher. Manlihood’s mission is simple: to help men become better men—and Forge Nights are one way to bring that mission to life in our own backyard.

“We know that when men grow stronger—spiritually, emotionally, and practically—families and communities grow stronger too,” says Hatcher. “Forge Nights are about giving guys a space to connect, learn, and walk out their faith in real, tangible ways.”

Forge Night for Men

🔥 Upcoming Forge Nights

This is just the beginning! Future Forge Nights will include:

  • Self-Defense Seminar – June 18
  • BBQ Skills Training – July
  • …and more practical, engaging nights to come.

📍 No RSVP Needed—Just Show Up

So whether you’re a gearhead or a total beginner, join us on Monday, May 12 at 6:30 PM for Forge Night: Basic Car Maintenance. Come ready to learn, connect, and get your hands a little dirty.

Want to join Tribe of Lions?
Learn more and explore our microchurch network here:

Join a Microchurch
Forge Night: Basic Car Maintenance: Tribe of Lions - Manlihood

Load More