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how to pray

How to Pray (According to Jesus): The Lord’s Prayer, Real Faith, and Why Solitude Matters

Many of us wonder, Am I praying right? Do I have to say the exact words? Does God really hear me? Family Pastor Annette Dennison answers these questions with Scripture, a personal healing testimony, and a simple framework for a life of prayer you can actually live. Prayer is not performance—it’s relationship.

“Prayer doesn’t change things; God changes things… It’s the God to whom we pray who has all power.” – Pastor Annette Dennison

What Is Prayer, Really?

Prayer is an honest conversation with God—real emotions, real requests, and a real relationship. It’s how we cultivate friendship with Him and grow in joy.

“Prayer is our primary portal to joy… The more you pray, the more you think to pray.” – Pastor Annette Dennison

Jesus’ Teaching on Prayer (Matthew 6:5–15)

Jesus warns against praying to be seen and invites us into secret, sincere communion with the Father:

Matthew 6:5–8 (NIV):
“And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites… But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen… And when you pray, do not keep on babbling… for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.”

Then He offers a pattern we can follow:

Matthew 6:9–13 — The Lord’s Prayer:
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”

And He adds:

Matthew 6:14–15:
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

Key takeaway: The Lord’s Prayer is a pattern, not a performance. It reorients our hearts to God’s name, God’s will, God’s provision, God’s mercy, and God’s leadership.

Does Prayer “Work”? Faith and God’s Power

Mark 11:24:
“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”

Faith isn’t magic words—it’s trust in the God who answers.

Annette shared how, after the church prayed over her, doctors who previously saw four pituitary tumors found none on the follow-up scan. Her response?

“My God took them away.” – Pastor Annette Dennison

James 5:16:
“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

1 Thessalonians 5:16–18:
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Why Solitude Matters—Jesus Shows the Way

Jesus practiced secret prayer—often, and for long stretches.

Luke 6:12:
“One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God.”

Mark 1:35–38:
“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up… to a solitary place, where he prayed…”

Solitude clears the noise so you can give God your undivided attention and learn spiritual discipline.

Psalm 100:
“Worship the Lord with gladness… Enter his gates with thanksgiving…”

Gratitude is the doorway to deeper love.

Why Pray Together? The Power of Corporate Prayer

2 Chronicles 7:14–15:
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray… then I will hear from heaven… I will forgive… and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.”

When God’s people humble themselves, repent, and seek His face together, communities change.

Four Practical Levels of Prayer

Annette outlined a simple path you can start today:

  1. Talking to God – Pray Scripture (Psalms), historic prayers, or sing.
  2. Talking with God – Share details of your life with gratitude; ask for help (petition) and stand in the gap for others (intercession).
  3. Listening to God – Make quiet space to hear His “still, small voice.”
  4. Being with God – Rest in His presence: “To look at Him, looking at us in love.”

Try This Today

  • Find a quiet moment. Pray the Lord’s Prayer slowly.
  • Add your own words: Name a need, confess a sin, thank God for one gift, ask for guidance.
  • Sit in silence for one minute and listen.
  • Text a friend: “How can I pray for you today?”
  • Before bed, whisper: “Father, I trust You with this.”

Looking for a Church in Bradford, PA?

If you’re spiritually curious or hurting and wondering how to pray, we’d love to walk with you.

Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA is a place to find hope, healing, and purpose in Jesus—together in microchurches and on Sundays.

👉 Plan a visit: https://openarmscommunitychurch.org/visit

recovery group in bradford pa

Homecoming Recovery: Finding Hope and Healing in Jesus

Addiction is a heavy burden. It leaves people feeling isolated, ashamed, and unsure where to turn. For Robert Erickson, that struggle was very real. He battled alcohol and opiates, tried to push through life on his own, and even reached the point of checking himself into a psych ward. Nothing seemed to work.

But then, God called him home.

Robert describes that moment as a “slap on the head” from God—when he realized Jesus had been waiting for him all along. Out of that turning point, Homecoming Recovery was born.

Why “Homecoming”?

The name carries deep meaning. Robert says, “I was doing things my way. On my own terms. But when I was broken and had nothing left, God said, ‘Are you ready to come home to me? I’ve been waiting.’”

For him, recovery wasn’t just about getting clean—it was about coming home to Jesus, the One who restores and makes all things new.

What Is Homecoming Recovery?

Homecoming Recovery is a faith-based microchurch at Open Arms Community Church for anyone walking through addiction or recovery. Whether you’re just starting the journey, have been sober for years, or are still struggling, you’ll find encouragement, hope, and practical support here.

Unlike traditional NA or AA meetings, this group is rooted in God’s Word. Each week, the group walks through the 12 steps of recovery using the Life Recovery Bible, opening the floor for honest discussion, sharing, and prayer.

The focus isn’t on rules or requirements—it’s simple: come as you are.

Who Is It For?

  • Anyone struggling with addiction
  • Those in recovery who want ongoing support
  • Family members and friends who want to better understand the journey
  • People wrestling with faith but open to discovering what Jesus can do

Robert puts it plainly: “Jesus will meet you where you are and when you are ready. He isn’t the one who left—we are. But when you turn back, He’s right there to welcome you home.”

When & Where

📅 Fridays at 6:00 PM
📍 Microchurch Room at Open Arms Community Church (71 Congress Street, Bradford, PA)

Why Come?

Because you don’t have to fight this battle alone.
Because healing happens in community.
Because Jesus offers freedom, hope, and a new beginning.

At Homecoming Recovery, you’ll be welcomed, wanted, and reminded that there is a way forward—and the way is Jesus.

bradford pumpkinfest

After Pumpkinfest, Head Over to Open Arms for Community Fun Night!

Pumpkinfest is one of the highlights of fall here in Bradford, PA—a time for families and friends to gather downtown, enjoy the festivities, and celebrate the season together. This year, the fun doesn’t have to end when Pumpkinfest wraps up.

Open Arms Community Church invites you to keep the celebration going with our Fall Movie Night on Saturday, September 27, from 6:30–8:30 PM.

A Cozy Fall Evening for the Whole Family

Our Community Fun Night will feature a seasonal classic movie. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the timeless story, laughter, and lessons that come with this fall favorite.

And what’s a movie night without treats? We’ll have:

  • Freshly popped popcorn
  • Sweet candy snacks
  • A warm, family-friendly atmosphere

Free and Open to Everyone

This event is completely free and open to the community. Whether you’re part of Open Arms or just looking for something fun to do after Pumpkinfest in Bradford, PA, you’re welcome to join us. Bring your family, bring your friends, and enjoy an evening that’s both fun and meaningful.

Want to Lend a Hand?

We’re also looking for volunteers to help make the night special. Opportunities include:

  • Helping set up before the event
  • Handing out candy
  • Making and serving popcorn
  • Cleaning up after the movie

If you’d like to volunteer, just connect with Angel or Dan at Open Arms.

Join Us After Pumpkinfest!

Don’t head straight home after Pumpkinfest—come on over to Open Arms Community Church at 71 Congress Street in Bradford, PA, for Family Fun Night. It’s the perfect way to wind down the day with a cozy movie, tasty snacks, and great company.

We can’t wait to see you there!

why God wants us to rest

Is Rest the Missing Key? Why Jesus Gave Us Sabbath

(Do As I Do, Pt. 2 — Rich Dennison)

Search intent this post serves: Why am I so tired? Does God really want me to rest? What is the Sabbath? How do I practice Sabbath today? What happens if I never slow down?

At Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA, we’re walking through Do As I Do—a series about apprenticing under Jesus. In Part 2, Pastor Rich Dennison asks a surprising, very practical question: What if the “key” you forgot in your life is rest?

Jesus said, “I am the way.” He didn’t hand us a self-help checklist—He lived God’s original design and invited us to follow it. And God’s way starts with something most of us neglect: Sabbath.

Why Am I So Tired—And Does God Really Want Me to Rest?

Most of us are chronically exhausted—overbusy, underslept, and running on fumes. Tiredness is part of life, but many of us live at a dangerous level of tired, so worn down that we struggle to sense God’s presence or hear His voice.

From page one of the Bible, God’s rhythm is clear: the day begins with rest (sundown), and the week begins with Sabbath (rest). Rest isn’t a luxury; it’s essential to apprenticeship under Jesus.

What Is the Sabbath—And Why Did God Command It?

Exodus 20:8–11 (NIV)

8 “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work,
10 but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns.
11 For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.”

Why we need it (in plain language):

  • To counterbalance the other six days of work
  • To restore mind, body, and spirit
  • To worship and fellowship—real connection with God and people
  • To declare freedom from a culture that says your worth = your productivity
  • To remember creation and the Creator—the day He blessed and made holy

Did Jesus Break the Sabbath—or Redefine It?

Some accused Jesus of “breaking” Sabbath when His disciples plucked grain because they were hungry. Jesus corrected man-made restrictions and restored God’s heart for Sabbath.

Mark 2:23–28 (NIV)

23 One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grainfields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain.
24 The Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?”
25 He answered, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need?
26 In the days of Abiathar the high priest, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.”
27 Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.
28 So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”

Key truths:

  • Jesus was sinless—He didn’t violate God’s law.
    2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV) God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
  • He fulfilled and restored Sabbath, prioritizing mercy, compassion, and human need over rigid rule-keeping.
  • Sabbath is a gift meant to draw us closer to God—a blessing, not a burden.

What Happens If I Don’t Slow Down?

When we never rest, we’re not trusting God. We start living as if everything depends on our hustle and nothing depends on His provision. Scripture warns that unbelief hardens hearts and keeps us from God’s rest.

Hebrews 3:7–19 (NIV, excerpt)

7 So, as the Holy Spirit says: “Today, if you hear his voice,
8 do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion…”
11 “They shall never enter my rest.”
12 See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God…
19 So we see that they were not able to enter, because of their unbelief.

How Do I Practice Sabbath in Real Life?

Think race-car pit stop: after a hard run, everything must be cleaned, inspected, and tuned so it can finish the race. Sabbath is your weekly restoration bay.

Five simple steps to start:

  1. Prepare (day before): finish shopping, cleaning, errands so they won’t hijack your Sabbath.
  2. Set boundaries: decide what you’re not doing—work, email, social scroll, etc.
  3. Embrace life-giving activities:
    special meals • time with family/friends • hobbies • reading/nap • walk in nature • journaling/prayer • worship with your church community
  4. Reflect & debrief: What renewed you? What did God highlight? Share it with someone.
  5. Integrate the rhythm: Make Sabbath a regular, life-giving habit that brings joy, peace, and calm.

God attaches promises to obedience:

Isaiah 58:10–14 (NIV, excerpt)

10 …your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.
11 The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden…
12 …Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.
13 “If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath…
14 then you will find your joy in the Lord, and I will cause you to ride in triumph…”

Is Sabbath Still About Rules—or About Relationship?

Jesus shows Sabbath is about relationship and restoration. He’s Lord of the Sabbath, and He invites you to trust His rhythm so your soul can breathe.

Bottom line: Six is enough. On the seventh, rest in Him.

A Word on Communion: How Do I Come to the Table Worthily?

As we rest and remember, we also come to Jesus’ table with humility—not trusting our own righteousness but His mercy.

1 Corinthians 11:26–29 (NIV)

26 For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.
27 So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord.
28 Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup.
29 For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves.

Simple prayer posture: confession, cleansing, communion—receive what Jesus has already done.

Ready to Try a Real Sabbath This Week?

  • Start small: pick a start time and end time (e.g., Saturday 6pm–Sunday 6pm).
  • Make one no-work rule and one life-giving plan (meal, walk, worship).
  • Ask God to meet you in the quiet.

➡️ Watch the full message on our YouTube channel and walk this out with us.
🙌 Or join us Sunday mornings at 71 Congress Street in Bradford, PA.

Plan your visit

Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA — a church where you can find hope, healing, and purpose.

back to church sunday

Back to Church Sunday 2025: Life is Better Together

What Is Back to Church Sunday?

Every year, churches around the nation set aside a special day called Back to Church Sunday. It’s more than just an event — it’s an invitation. It’s a chance for those who have been away from church, those who have never been, or those who simply need a fresh start to come and discover what faith and community are all about.

This year, Back to Church Sunday happens on September 21, 2025, and here at Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA, we’re saving a seat just for you at 9AM & 11AM.

Why “Life is Better Together”

Our theme this year is simple: Life is Better Together. We live in a world where it’s easy to feel isolated, overlooked, or even unworthy. Maybe you’ve thought:

  • “They don’t really want me there.”
  • “It’s too late for me to go back.”
  • “I’m afraid I’ll be judged.”

The truth is, you’re not alone in those feelings. Many of us have walked through seasons of doubt, shame, or distance from God. But church isn’t a place for perfect people — it’s a family. And in God’s family, there’s room for your story.

When we worship together, pray together, and walk through life side by side, we discover something powerful: we were never meant to do life alone.

A Fresh Start Awaits You

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to come back to church, this is it. Back to Church Sunday is your opportunity to take that step. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You don’t have to “clean yourself up” first. You don’t even have to believe everything to belong.

At Open Arms Community Church, you’ll find a warm welcome, a come-as-you-are environment, and people who will walk with you through life’s challenges. Most importantly, you’ll encounter the hope and love of Jesus.

Join Us in Bradford, PA

📅 Sunday, September 21, 2025
🕘 9AM & 11AM Services
📍 Open Arms Community Church, 71 Congress Street, Bradford, PA

Whether it’s your first time or your first time in a long time, we’d love to see you. Bring a friend, bring your family — or just bring yourself. However you come, know this: you belong here.

Because life really is better together.

what are you chasing?

The Way: Who or What Are You Really Following?

At Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA, we recently celebrated 28 new lives in Christ through baptism. Baptism is a powerful step of faith—but it’s also a starting line, not the finish. The real question is: Now what?

That’s where our new series, Do As I Do, begins. Jesus never said, “Do as I say, not as I do.” Instead, He invited us to actually live the way He lived.

What Are You Following Right Now?

Whether we admit it or not, we’re all following something.

  • Culture and its shifting opinions 📺
  • Family and friends’ expectations 👪
  • Money and success 💼
  • Our own version of the “American dream” 🏡

But can these things really satisfy? Jesus said:

Matthew 6:24 (NIV)

“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”

In other words, you can’t follow both. At some point, you’ll have to decide which path you’re really on.

What Did Jesus Actually Invite People Into?

In the first century, rabbis (teachers) never pursued students. Students had to beg to follow a rabbi, like applying to an Ivy League school.

But Jesus flipped the script. He went out of His way to call people personally:

Mark 1:16–20 (NIV)

16 As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen.
17 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
18 At once they left their nets and followed him.
19 When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets.
20 Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him.

Mark 2:13–15 (NIV)

13 Once again Jesus went out beside the lake. A large crowd came to him, and he began to teach them.
14 As he walked along, he saw Levi son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” Jesus told him, and Levi got up and followed him.
15 While Jesus was having dinner at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him.

Notice—He didn’t invite them to “become Christians” (that word came later). He invited them to apprentice under Him—to learn a whole new way of living.

What Does It Mean to Follow Jesus Today?

Pastor Zoe laid out three rhythms for what it really looks like:

  1. Be with Jesus
  2. Become like Jesus
  3. Do what Jesus did

This isn’t a program or a checklist. It’s a way of life. Spend time with Him, let that time transform you, and then live differently because of it.

How Do I Actually Spend Time With God?

Being with Jesus starts with simple, practical steps:

  • Prayer: Talking and listening.
  • Abiding (meno in Greek means “stay”): Staying close to Him, like a loyal friend or even a lapdog at your feet.
  • Contemplation: Fixing your thoughts and emotions on Him. Making Him your true home.

An old peasant once described his prayer this way: “I look at Him, He looks at me, and we are happy.” That kind of relationship is what Jesus invites you into.

How Do I Become More Like Jesus?

Being with Him naturally leads to becoming like Him. That happens through:

  • Teaching: Reading Scripture, hearing preaching, listening for God’s voice.
  • Practice: Engaging in rhythms like Sabbath, prayer, fasting, solitude, generosity, and service.
  • Community: Real transformation happens with others, not in isolation. God Himself exists in community (Father, Son, Holy Spirit).

And there’s one clear test: Am I becoming more loving? Ask yourself—and even better, ask the people around you. If love is growing, you’re on the right track.

Why Does Following Jesus Involve Struggle?

Becoming like Jesus is not instant—it takes time, surrender, and yes, even suffering.

Matthew 10:24–25 (NLT)

24 Students are not greater than their teacher, and slaves are not greater than their master.
25 Students are to be like their teacher, and slaves are to be like their master. And since I, the master of the household, have been called the prince of demons, the members of my household will be called by even worse names!

Matthew 10:24–25 (MSG)

A student doesn’t get a better desk than her teacher. A laborer doesn’t make more money than his boss. Be content—pleased, even—when you, my students, my harvest hands, get the same treatment I get. If they call me, the Master, ‘Dungface,’ what can the workers expect?

If Jesus suffered, why would we think we get out of it? Hardship is often where real growth happens.

But here’s the encouragement: change doesn’t come from our willpower—it comes from surrender to the Holy Spirit.

What’s More Important: My Resume or My Legacy?

When life is over, people won’t remember us for our accomplishments as much as how we loved them. Are you living for your résumé, or your eulogy?

Funerals remind us of this truth: people share stories not of achievements, but of kindness, love, and presence. That’s what lasts.

What Did Jesus Actually Do?

We don’t just be with Him and become like Him for ourselves—we do it so we can do what He did.

  • Hospitality: Making people feel welcome.
  • Preaching the Gospel: Sharing good news with our words.
  • Demonstrating the Gospel: Showing God’s love through miracles, healing, justice, and compassion.

The end goal? To grow into the kind of person who can say and do the things Jesus said and did.

Am I Ready to Follow Jesus?

Following Jesus isn’t about trying harder—it’s about training with Him as your coach. Like preparing for a 10K, it takes small steps, consistency, and daily commitment.

As St. Augustine said: “Without God, we cannot. Without us, God will not.”

The same Spirit who empowered Jesus is available to empower you today. But discipleship means counting the cost:

Luke 14:25–33 (MSG)

One day when large groups of people were walking along with him, Jesus turned and told them, “Anyone who comes to me but refuses to let go of father, mother, spouse, children, brothers, sisters—yes, even one’s own self!—can’t be my disciple. Anyone who won’t shoulder his own cross and follow behind me can’t be my disciple. … Simply put, if you’re not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it good-bye, you can’t be my disciple.”

It sounds harsh, but Jesus is honest: following Him means leaving behind competing loves. Are you ready?

What Do You Really Want?

In John’s gospel, Jesus asked a life-changing question:

John 1:35–39 (NIV)

35 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples.
36 When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!”
37 When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus.
38 Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?”
39 “Come,” he replied, “and you will see.”

Jesus still asks the same today: What do you want?

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’ve been chasing culture, money, or success and still feel empty, Jesus is inviting you into a better way.

➡️ You can watch this full message on our Open Arms YouTube channel.
🙌 Or better yet, join us in person Sunday mornings at 71 Congress Street in Bradford, PA. Find service times and plan your visit here.

At Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA, you’ll find a community where hope, healing, and purpose are waiting for you.

Bus Schedule

Open Arms Bus Schedule

To take the bus to the 11 AM service at Open Arms Community Church (at our new location at 71 Congress Street)

The bus makes the following stops:

  • 10:10 am – Bromeley Theater / Pitt Campus
  • 10:15 am – Brookline Court and South Center
  • 10:20 am – Corner of Chautauqua Place by High Rise and Kiwanis Court
  • 10:25 am – Corner of Veterans Square and Emery Towers
  • 10:35 am – Corner of Seward Ave / Bolivar Drive

Then the bus arrives at Open Arms Community Church at 71 Congress Street in time for Service at 11AM

The bus then leaves after the service and drops off at those locations.

(updated 9/1/25)

bible studies in bradford pa

What’s New with Open Arms Microchurches – September 2025

At Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA, we believe faith grows best in community. That’s why our microchurches meet throughout the week in homes and creative spaces across the region. These smaller gatherings are where real relationships are formed, prayers are shared, and discipleship happens in everyday life.

Here’s what’s happening with our microchurches this September:

Engage Prayer

Every Monday | 6 PM | Open Arms – 71 Congress St
Start your week in God’s presence. Join us each Monday night as we go deeper in prayer together.

Promises of God

Wednesdays at 6:30PM at 17 Vista Circle, Bradford
A consistent midweek gathering for prayer, Scripture, and connection.

New Believers Group

Every Thursday | 6:30 PM | 65 North Center St, Bradford
This group is designed for those new to faith, offering encouragement and teaching on God’s promises.

EmpowHer

Every Thursday | 6–8 PM | Downstairs at Open Arms – 71 Congress St
A weekly women’s microchurch where ladies encourage one another and grow in Christ-centered sisterhood.

Homecoming Recovery – NEW!

Starting September 12 | Fridays | 6 PM | Downstairs at Open Arms – 71 Congress St
A safe place for those seeking freedom from addiction. This recovery microchurch offers support, prayer, and hope.

Harvest of Faith

Saturdays 2–4 PM | Kitchen at Open Arms – 71 Congress St
Join us for a hands-on experience of fellowship, faith, and baking.

Youth Group

  • Sept 7 & 28 | 5 PM | 869 W. Washington
  • Sept 14 | (TBA)

Students gather to build friendships, have fun, and grow in their walk with Jesus.

Sunday Dinner (Young Adults)

  • Sept 7, 14, 28 | 6–8 PM | Open Arms – 71 Congress St
  • Sept 21 | 6 PM | Hiking Trip at Marilla

A microchurch designed for young adults to share a meal, dive into God’s Word, and live life together.

Tribe of Lions (Men’s Microchurch)

  • Sept 1 | Labor Day – No Meeting
  • Sept 8 | 6:30 PM – Forge Night: Basic Home Repair
  • Sept 15 | 6:30 PM – Regular Meeting
  • Sept 22 | 6:30 PM – Forge Night: Trauma Response
  • Sept 29 | 6:30 PM – Chili Cook-Off

Men sharpening men through practical skills, spiritual growth, and authentic brotherhood.

Least of These Riders

  • Sept 2 | 6:30 PM – Meet at Charlie’s Cycle Shop, Minard Run
  • Sept 9 & 23 | 6:30 PM – Meet at Robinson’s House, Lewis Run
  • Sept 16 | 6:30 PM – Men & Women meet separately (TBA)
  • Sept 20 | 9 AM–3 PM – BTC 5th Annual Cruisin’ to Recovery @ Kane Family Drive-In
  • Sept 30 | (TBA)

A motorcycle microchurch for riders who want to combine faith, freedom, and fellowship.

New Microchurch Starting!

Later in September, we’ll have a new microchurch starting as well! Stay Tuned for more info!

Find Your Microchurch

Microchurches are where big church becomes personal. Whether you’re new to faith or have been following Jesus for years, there’s a place for you to connect, grow, and serve.

👉 Learn more about all our microchurches at openarmscommunitychurch.org/microchurches

Things to do in Bradford PA

What’s New at Open Arms This September 2025

Looking for meaningful things to do in Bradford, PA this September? Open Arms Community Church has a full month of events where you can connect with others, grow in your faith, and make a difference in the community. From a brand-new teaching series to local outreach and fun gatherings, here’s what’s coming up:

New Series: Do As I Do

Starting Sunday, September 7

This fall, we’re launching a powerful new series called Do As I Do. Together, we’ll take a journey into living the way of Jesus. Each week, we’ll explore practical spiritual disciplines like Sabbath, prayer, fasting, and more.

This series is about more than belief — it’s about imitation. We’ll learn how to walk in His footsteps, shape our daily rhythms around His example, and experience the kind of life only He can offer. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow deeper in your faith and live it out in everyday life.

Walk for Life

Saturday, September 13 | 10 AM – 1 PM | Allegany River Park

If you’re looking for family-friendly events in Bradford, PA, join us at Allegany River Park for the annual Walk for Life, supporting Bright Alternatives, one of our mission partners. Bright Alternatives provides free care and resources for women and families facing unplanned pregnancies.

This is a chance to walk, connect, and make a real difference for people in our community. Bring your family and friends and help us support this vital ministry!

Destinations Chicken BBQ

Saturday, September 20 | 12 PM – 4 PM | Bradford Township Lions Club

Mark your calendar for a day of food, fun, and fellowship at the Bradford Township Lions Club. Enjoy a delicious chicken BBQ hot off the grill, along with activities and entertainment for the whole family.

Proceeds benefit Destinations Bradford, one of our Open Arms mission partners. Destinations serves as a resource for those in need, feeding the hungry, housing the homeless, and offering care for our community. By coming out to enjoy great food and fun, you’ll also be helping to support this essential ministry.

This is one of those can’t-miss things to do in Bradford, PA if you love good food and supporting a good cause.

Community Fun Night at Pumpkinfest

Saturday, September 27 | 7 PM | After Bradford Pumpkinfest

We’ll be wrapping up the month with a Community Fun Night after Bradford Pumpkinfest! Join us for an outdoor movie night starting at 7 PM. It’s a great way to relax, have fun, and spend time with others in our community.

Be Part of What’s Happening!

September is full of opportunities to grow in faith, support local ministries, and enjoy time with friends and family. Whether you’re joining us for the Do As I Do series on Sundays at 71 Congress Street, walking for life, eating BBQ chicken, or catching a movie at Pumpkinfest — Open Arms is here to help you experience hope, healing, and purpose.

If you’re looking for things to do in Bradford, PA, we’d love for you to join us at any of these events. There’s a place for you here!

baptism Open Arms community church bradford pa

Marilla Baptism Service & Picnic

ne of our favorite Sundays of the year—our outdoor Baptism Service & Picnic at Marilla Landing Pavilion! Whether you’ve walked with Jesus for decades or you’re just starting to explore faith, this is the perfect moment to celebrate new life together.

All‑in‑One Sunday Schedule

Important: This week we will not meet at 71 Congress Street. Instead, our regular Sunday worship service, the baptisms, and the picnic will all happen right at Marilla Landing Pavilion. Come ready to sing, celebrate, and feast outdoors!

Bring a lawn chair for the service and baptisms—seating at the pavilion is limited.

Why We Celebrate Baptism

Baptism is a public “yes” to the new life Jesus offers. Going under the water symbolizes dying to our old, sin‑stained way of living, and coming up represents rising with Christ to a fresh start. It’s an outward sign of an inward change—simple, powerful, and open to anyone who has decided to follow Jesus.

Not sure you’re ready? Come anyway, ask questions, and see what it’s all about. We’ll have extra towels and friendly faces ready to talk.

How to Get There

Address: Marilla Landing Pavilion, 1131 W. Washington St., Bradford, PA 16701 RunSignup

From downtown Bradford / Open Arms (71 Congress St.):

  1. Head west on West Washington St. / PA‑346.
  2. Keep going for about 5 miles until you see Marilla Reservoir on the right.
  3. Just past the covered bridge, turn right when you see the sign for Luther Reservoir and follow the drive to the pavilion parking lot.
    Tip: Cell service can be spotty around the reservoir, so set your GPS before leaving town.

If you need a ride – Check out our bus schedule.

How to find Marilla Landing Pavilion #bradfordpa
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What to Expect

  • Outdoor worship service under the pavilion roof.
  • Inflatable baptism tub front and center so everyone can celebrate up close.
  • Real‑life stories of transformation as each person being baptized shares what Jesus has done in their life.
  • Casual picnic vibe—kids playing, camp chairs, and plenty of food to share.

Picnic Details – Bring a Dish to Pass

Right after the baptisms we’ll break out the picnic tables. To make the feast amazing, bring a favorite side, salad, or dessert to share—homemade or store‑bought is fine. We’ll provide the main dishes, drinks, and paper goods so it’s easy for everyone.

Get Your Free Baptism T‑Shirt

Everyone who signs up for baptism ahead of time receives a Baptism T‑shirt. It’s our gift to mark this milestone and a great conversation starter long after Sunday.

Register today using the form below!

Ready to Take the Plunge?

  1. Fill out the form below and let us know you’re in.
  2. Invite friends and family—they won’t want to miss it.
  3. Pack your chair, your covered‑dish, and plenty of excitement!

If you’re still on the fence, come anyway. Sometimes watching others take their step is exactly what God uses to nudge us forward.

We can’t wait to worship, celebrate, and picnic with you at Marilla Landing Pavilion. Let’s eat together, laugh together, and rejoice as lives are made new!

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