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encounter in Bradford PA

Encounter Weekend: A Space to Listen for God’s Call

Some moments matter because of what happens in them.
Others matter because of what they set in motion.

Encounter Weekend has consistently been that kind of moment for us.

Over the years, we’ve watched God use these weekends to clarify calling, ignite vision, and send people out in ways none of us could have planned. We’ve seen microchurches launched, churches planted, and ministries born out of prayerful discernment that began in rooms just like ours. We’ve welcomed church planters and leaders from around the world, each bringing stories of what God is doing—and leaving with fresh clarity about what He’s calling them to next.

At its heart, Encounter exists for one reason:
to help people discern God’s call to multiplication.

This is a weekend set aside for worship, prayer, and practical training—space to listen, learn, and ask honest questions about where God may be leading you. Together, we explore five strategies for multiplying disciples and churches, not as a formula to copy, but as a framework to help you recognize how God might be at work in and through your life.

If you’ve been sensing a nudge toward starting a microchurch…
If you’re feeling unsettled where you are and wondering what your next step in ministry might be…
If you know God is stirring something, but you’re not sure what to call it yet…

Encounter is a good place to be.

You don’t need to arrive with a plan. You don’t need to have everything figured out. What matters is a willingness to listen and respond.

This year’s Encounter Weekend takes place January 16–17, 2026, at Open Arms Community Church, and there is no cost to attend. We do ask that you RSVP so we can prepare well. Lunch will be provided on Saturday.

If you’re asking God what’s next—and you’re open to being sent—this weekend is an invitation to lean in, listen closely, and take a faithful step forward.

👉 Register here:
https://cdn.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/3337725

If you have questions, feel free to reach out to Rich Dennison at rich@oachurch.com.

We’d love to walk this discernment journey with you.

things to do in bradford pa

New Year, New You: A Community Fun Night at Open Arms Community Church

The beginning of a new year often brings a mix of hope, motivation, and pressure. At Open Arms Community Church, we want to create space for something healthier and more encouraging—a night to prepare for the year ahead without stress or expectations.

New Year, New You is a Community Fun Night designed to help individuals and families step into the new year with clarity, connection, and a sense of purpose.

Games to Help You Prepare for the New Year

Throughout the evening, we’ll enjoy games designed to help you prepare for the new year, with lighthearted activities centered on resolutions and decluttering. These activities are meant to be practical and fun—helping you think about what you want to carry forward and what you might want to leave behind as the year begins.

Along the way, we’ll also have:

  • Prizes
  • Refreshments
  • A thoughtfully selected scripture list focused on fresh starts and new beginnings

Many of the activities are designed so kids can participate alongside adults, making this a great night for families to enjoy together.

Event Details

📅 Saturday, January 10, 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM
📍 Open Arms Community Church – Fellowship Hall
📍 71 Congress Street, Bradford, PA

Everyone Is Welcome

New Year, New You is open to everyone—whether you’re part of the Open Arms family or visiting for the first time. Come as you are, bring your family, and enjoy an evening of connection, laughter, and encouragement as we begin the year together.

For questions, contact Angel Atkinson at angelcare@oachurch.com or 814-366-1558.

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!

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.

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

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
https://youtube.com/shorts/JuQgpdH6gmk?feature=share

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!

bible studies in bradford pa

What’s New with Microchurches at Open Arms Community Church – August 2025

If you’ve ever wished church felt more personal, more like family, and more like real life—microchurches might be exactly what you’re looking for.

At Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA, microchurches are where big faith meets small gatherings. These groups meet in homes, kitchens, and creative spaces throughout the week to pray together, serve together, and live life together—sharing meals, stories, struggles, and victories.

And this August, there are more ways than ever to jump in.

🌱 What Is a Microchurch?

Microchurches are smaller, decentralized communities connected to Open Arms. Each one has its own flavor and focus, but they’re all built around the same mission: to love God, love people, and make disciples. Whether you’re new to faith or have been walking with Jesus for years, there’s a place for you.

You can explore current groups at
👉 openarmscommunitychurch.org/microchurches

📆 August 2025 Microchurch Highlights

Here’s a look at just some of the microchurch opportunities happening this month:

🙏 Engage Prayer

Every Monday • 6PM
Meet at Open Arms (71 Congress St) to go deeper in prayer.

🛠️ Tribe of Lions – Men’s Microchurch

Aug 4 & 18 • 6:30PM – Men gather downstairs at Open Arms
Aug 11 • 6–7:30PM – Forge Night: Stop the Bleed Trauma Response Training
Aug 25 • 6:30PM – Prayer Walk & Litter Pickup around town

👩‍🍳 Harvest of Faith – Baking + Fellowship

Aug 23 & 30 • 2–4PM
A baking and canning group in the Open Arms kitchen.

👩 EmpowHer – Women’s Microchurch

Every Thursday • 6–8PM
Gathering weekly for encouragement and spiritual growth downstairs at Open Arms.

🧒 Youth Group

Every Sunday • 6–8PM
Except Aug 31, when we’ll be celebrating baptisms at Marilla!
All other Sundays meet at Open Arms.

🍽️ Sunday Dinner – Young Adults

Aug 10 & 17 • 5PM
Meet at the Hatcher House (869 W Washington St). No group Aug 3 & 24.

🛵 Least of These Riders

  • Aug 5 • 6:30PM – Meet at Charlie’s Cycle Shop, Minard Run
  • Aug 12 & 26 • 6:30PM – Meet at the Robinsons’ house, Lewis Run
  • Aug 19 • 6:30PM – Men & Women meet separately (location TBA)

📖 New Believers Group

Every Thursday • 6:30PM at 65 North Center St
Grow in your faith and discover the promises of God together.

🏡 Promises of God

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

Ready to Join a Microchurch?

Microchurches aren’t about sitting in rows—they’re about gathering in circles. Whether you’re looking for deep Bible study, practical help, a place to serve, or just meaningful friendships, we’d love to help you find a microchurch that fits your life.

👉 See all our microchurches and find your place here.

things to do in Bradford PA

What’s New at Open Arms Community Church: August 2025 Events You Won’t Want to Miss!

There’s something exciting happening every week this August at Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA! From a kid-focused celebration to a community-wide block party, a powerful new sermon series, and our annual baptism picnic—there are so many opportunities to connect, grow, and celebrate together.

🎉 August 1 – Super Summer Bash: Kids Night

Friday, August 1st | 4–8PM
Location: Open Arms Community Church – 71 Congress Street, Bradford, PA

Kids ages 3 to 11 are invited to Creation Camp, a fun-filled evening of dinner, games, Bible lessons, and joy! Parents, you’re not left out—join us at 7PM for an Ice Cream Social where you can connect with other families and enjoy a sweet treat together. It’s the perfect summer night out for the whole family.

🎶 August 2 – Super Summer Bash: Community Block Party

Saturday, August 2nd | 12-4PM
Location: Open Arms Community Church – 71 Congress Street, Bradford, PA

Get ready for one of the biggest parties of the summer! Our Community Block Party is back, and it’s better than ever with:

  • Inflatables and a dunk tank
  • Live music
  • Free food
  • Games and prizes

Everyone is welcome—so bring your family, your friends, your neighbors… and come make some memories!

💞 August 3 – New Series: How We Love

Sunday, August 3rd | Services at 9AM & 11AM
Location: Open Arms Community Church – 71 Congress Street, Bradford, PA

We’re launching a brand-new sermon series this August titled “How We Love.” It’s a deep dive into relationships—friendships, marriages, and everyday interactions—where we’ll explore what it looks like to truly reflect God’s love in how we care for others and ourselves.

Come find hope, healing, and practical ways to grow in your relationships. There’s a better way to love—and we’re learning it together.

🌊 August 31 – Baptism and Picnic at Marilla

Sunday, August 31st | Location: Marilla Landing Pavilion (Above the Reservoir)
Note: We will NOT be meeting at the church building this Sunday.

Join us at the Marilla Landing Pavilion for one of the most beautiful Sundays of the year—our annual Baptism Service and Church Picnic! It’s a time of celebration, community, and public declarations of faith as we gather outdoors to worship, witness baptisms, and enjoy great food and fellowship.

👉 Want to get baptized? Reach out to us soon so we can help you take that next step in your faith journey.

Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA is here to help real people connect with a real God who loves them. We can’t wait to see you this August!

Break the Chains Festival Port Allegany

Break the Chains Fest 2025: Worship, Freedom, and Community in Port Allegany

This weekend, July 25–26, Open Arms Community Church is headed to Port Allegany for Break the Chains Fest 2025 — a two-day event filled with worship, testimonies, food, and freedom in Christ.

This isn’t just a music festival. It’s a mission to bring hope to those battling addiction, depression, trauma, and spiritual darkness — and to show our communities that Jesus sets people free.

🎯 What’s the Mission?

Break the Chains Fest exists to shine a light in dark places. It’s a gathering of churches, musicians, and ministries with one purpose: to break the chains that hold people back from freedom in Christ.

Through live worship, powerful testimonies, and one-on-one ministry, this event reaches hearts with real stories of redemption and recovery. Whether you’re coming as a believer, a seeker, or someone just needing hope — you are welcome.

👋 Open Arms Family Represented

We’re so excited to see several of our Open Arms people leading and participating in this year’s festival:

  • 🎤 Caleb Dougherty will be performing on the Main Stage Friday at 11:15 AM
  • 🎤 Josh Hatcher will be sharing music and testimony Saturday at 12:00 PM
  • 🙌 The Least of These Riders (TLTR Worship) will be leading worship Saturday at 2:30 PM and serving throughout the weekend – including helping with Children’s Programming.

These folks represent the heart of our church — people who love Jesus, love others, and aren’t afraid to step out and serve.

Want to connect with TLTR? Check out their Facebook group here:
👉 The Least of These Riders – Facebook Group

We’re also expecting to see some of our friends from Salt and Light Community Church — come say hi and celebrate the unity of God’s people across the region!

🍔 Vendors, Food Trucks & Family Fun

Break the Chains Fest is completely free, and it’s more than music — it’s an outdoor community event. You’ll find:

  • Delicious local food trucks
  • Vendors offering handmade goods, resources, and outreach tools
  • Ministry booths where you can get prayer, encouragement, and connection

Bring a chair, bring a friend, and plan to stay a while!

🗓️ Full Event Schedule

Friday, July 25, 2025

TimePerformer/Activity
11:00 – 11:15Opening Prayer and Announcements
11:15Caleb Dougherty (Open Arms Community Church)
12:00Bobby Spaeth
1:00Walt Miles and Friends
2:00Tucker Rodkey with Painting Freedom Ministries
2:30Thankful and Daughters
3:30CR-84
4:30Kassie Shumac
5:30Tucker Rodkey with Painting Freedom Ministries
6:00Dave Miller
7:00Steve Benna
8:00 – 10:00JJ Beauvais and Genuine Melodies

Saturday, July 26, 2025

TimePerformer/Activity
11:00 – 11:15Opening Prayer and Announcements
11:15Jill Yingling
12:00Josh Hatcher (Open Arms Community Church)
12:30Tucker Rodkey with Painting Freedom Ministries
1:30By The Jordan
2:30TLTR Worship – The Least of These Riders
3:30Jason Caldwell
4:00CR-84
5:00JJ Beauvais and Genuine Melodies
7:00Tucker Rodkey with Painting Freedom Ministries
7:30Daniel Butler
8:30David Miller
9:30 – 10:00Worship and Candlelight Prayer Vigil

📍 Event Details

🗓 Friday & Saturday, July 25–26
📍 Port Allegany, PA – Open air event space
🎟 FREE Admission

🔗 More Info:
👉 Facebook Event Page
📰 Solomon’s Words – Event Preview
📰 Bradford Era – Building Hope, Breaking Chains

✝️ Let’s Go Be the Church

Let’s show up, Open Arms. Come support our people. Come worship with the hurting. Come believe for breakthrough.

We don’t just attend events like this — we carry the presence of God with us wherever we go. Be part of what God is doing this weekend in Port Allegany.

We’ll see you at Break the Chains!

fun for kids in bradford pa

Creation Camp — A Friday Night Just for Kids!

We’re kicking off Super Summer Bash weekend with something special just for the little ones — it’s Creation Camp, and it’s going to be an absolute blast!

Join us on Friday, August 1 from 4–8PM at Open Arms Community Church for a free, fun-filled night designed for kids ages 3 to 11. It’s hosted by our amazing Thrive Kids Ministry team and packed with activities your kids will love:

  • 🎨 Games & Crafts
  • 🍝 Spaghetti Dinner
  • 📖 Bible Lesson on Creation
  • 🍦 Ice Cream Social at 7PM (for Parents AND Kids!)

This night is all about faith, fun, and friendship—helping kids connect with God and each other in a way that’s exciting, hands-on, and unforgettable.

And that’s just the beginning! The fun continues on Saturday with our big Community Block Party—inflatables, music, food, games, giveaways, and more.

👉 Get all the Super Summer Bash details here and invite your crew!

We can’t wait to see your kids THRIVE!

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