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Church Swap Bradford PA Open Arms First Baptist

Two Bradford Churches Trade Spaces to Better Serve the Community

BRADFORD, PA — In an unprecedented show of unity and shared mission, two Bradford churches are swapping buildings this spring — not out of necessity, but out of calling.

Open Arms Community Church and First Baptist Church of Bradford will exchange church buildings in a move that both congregations believe is divinely inspired and strategically aligned with their respective visions for ministry. The change, first announced in May of 2024, becomes official on Palm Sunday, April 13, when both churches will hold their first services in their new locations.

Open Arms will begin worshiping at 71 Congress Street, the historic downtown church that has been home to First Baptist for generations. First Baptist will relocate to 1289 East Main Street, where Open Arms has held services since its early years of rapid growth.

“This isn’t just about buildings,” said Pastor Zoe Hatcher of Open Arms. “Being among the people in the downtown area of Bradford is the most exciting part of this move. We love our city and believe that God has a plan for it. As a ministry, we want to place ourselves in the middle of God’s will, which for us is to reach those to whom He has sent us.”

Open Arms’ final service at East Main Street will be held Sunday, April 6 at 10:00 AM, with moving trucks rolling out immediately after. Their first Sunday on April 13 at 71 Congress Street will feature two services at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, held in the church’s lower-level Fellowship Hall while renovations are underway to improve accessibility and functionality in the main sanctuary. The rear entrance of the building will temporarily serve as the primary entrance while renovations are underway in the main sanctuary.

First Baptist will begin their move the next day, on Monday, April 7, officially beginning a new chapter at 1289 East Main Street — only the third location in the church’s nearly 200-year history.

“By God’s grace, the congregation of First Baptist Church has had a long presence in the Tuna Valley stretching back to 1834, and in those 190 years God has always provided us a place to do his work,” said Pastor Jeremy Childs. “This will be the church’s third address in that time, and we believe it will serve both the present congregation as well as future generations.”

“This move will bring some obvious changes,” Childs continued, “but the mission of First Baptist continues to be glorifying God by training disciples to engage our world with the gospel. Every week we open the Bible and worship the Jesus who died on a cross for sinners and rose from the grave early Easter morning.”

Both churches plan to undertake renovation projects in the months ahead to tailor their new spaces to the unique needs of their congregations. For Open Arms, that includes not only physical updates, but a renewed focus on downtown outreach.

“In partnership with our community’s other ministries and agencies, we envision coming together at community events to serve and reach out to people through acts of kindness and service,” Pastor Hatcher said. “We’re also planning to host some of our own community events, like our Super Summer Bash and Church Around Town, along with block parties and open houses to build relationships in our new neighborhood.”

Despite the changes in address, neither church sees the move as a departure from who they are — but rather a step forward in faith.

“Our Horizon Vision as a church is to see ‘Transformed Community for God’s Glory,’” Hatcher explained. “That transformation doesn’t stay inside our walls. We want God’s love to flow out and impact the whole community — and we’re already seeing it begin.”

Pastor Childs echoed the same heart. “The mission of First Baptist continues to be glorifying God by training disciples to engage our world with the gospel. Every week we open the Bible and worship the Jesus who died on a cross for sinners and rose from the grave early Easter morning. All are welcome.”

Want to attend?

Open Arms Community Church
First service in new location: Palm Sunday, April 13
71 Congress Street, Bradford, PA
Service Times: 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM
Temporarily meeting in the Fellowship Hall while sanctuary renovations are underway
More info: oachurch.com

First Baptist Church of Bradford
First service in new location: Palm Sunday, April 13
1289 East Main Street, Bradford, PA
Sunday School: 9:00 AM | Worship: 10:00 AM
More info: fbcbradford.com

CrossWalk 2025 in Bradford PA

CROSSWALK Coming to Bradford – Open Arms to Host for the First Time at New Location

On Friday, April 18, churches from across Bradford will gather for the annual CROSSWALK, a Good Friday event hosted by the Bradford Area Ministerium. The CROSSWALK is a public, community-centered walk that stops at several local churches for short messages and worship focused on the story of Jesus’ journey to the cross.

This year marks a special milestone for Open Arms Community Church—we’ll be hosting one of the stops for the first time ever at our new location: 71 Congress Street.

We’ll be welcoming walkers and community members between 1:15 and 1:35 PM for a brief word and time of reflection.

Here’s the full schedule:

CrossWalk Services Bradford Area Ministerium
  • St. Bernard’s Church – Noon to 12:20 PM
  • 1st United Methodist Church – 12:25 to 12:45 PM
  • 1st Presbyterian Church – 12:50 to 1:10 PM
  • Open Arms Community Church – 1:15 to 1:35 PM
  • Church of the Ascension – 1:45 to 2:05 PM
  • B-Free Church – 2:15 to 2:35 PM
  • Hill Memorial Church – 2:40 to 3:00 PM

Whether you plan to walk the entire route or just stop in for part of it, the CROSSWALK is a simple but powerful way to mark the meaning of Good Friday alongside friends and neighbors. We’re honored to be part of it this year and invite you to join us along the way.

Templates & Apps

🕊️ Holy Week & Important Dates at Open Arms Community Church

Dear Church Family,

After much prayer and anticipation, we are thrilled to announce that Open Arms Community Church has a confirmed moving date! We’ve been waiting for this moment, and now we can officially share that we will be closing on our new building on April 4, 2025. This is a huge milestone for our church family, and we give all the glory to God for this next chapter.

📅 Important Dates to Remember

April 4, 2025 – Official Closing Date

On this day, we will officially sign for the deed to our new building at
71 Congress St., Bradford, PA.

April 6, 2025 – Final Service at East Main Location

This will be our last worship service at 1289 East Main St., where we’ve gathered for the past 22 years.

🚛 Moving Day:

Join us at 10:00 AM for a powerful time of worship and reflection as we close this chapter and prepare for what God has next.
After service, we’ll have lunch together and then begin packing and moving to the new location.
We need all hands on deck—if you’re available to help, please sign up:

👉 Volunteer for Moving Day

April 13, 2025 – First Services at 71 Congress St.

Our first worship services at the new building will take place on Palm Sunday!

🕘 9:00 AM – Intergenerational Worship (Children join adults in worship)
🕚 11:00 AM – Worship Service + Children’s Ministry (Ages 0–11)

Services will be held downstairs in the Fellowship Hall (please enter through the back entrance) while the front ramp is under construction for handicap accessibility.

Let’s come together to celebrate what God has done and prepare our hearts for this exciting new chapter!

🕘 5:00 PM – Pitt Chapel Service Come Worship With us at the Pitt Chapel! It’s a busy day of celebration, but we’re going to minister beyond the walls of our new building!

Worship at Harriet B Wick Chapel at Pitt Bradford
CrossWalk Services Bradford Area Ministerium

April 18, 2025 – Crosswalk Services

🕛 12:00–3:00 PM | Beginning at St. Bernard’s Church

Join our local community churches as we observe Good Friday with worship at seven downtown churches, carrying the cross between each location.

This is a powerful opportunity for the Church united to remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us, making a dark day in history truly Good.

April 18–19, 2025 – Prayer Vigil

🕖 7:00 PM (Friday) – 7:00 AM (Saturday)
📍 Open Arms Community Church, 71 Congress St.

Join us for an overnight prayer vigil from Good Friday through Holy Saturday morning as we pray for awakening in our community.

👉 Sign up for a prayer hour here

April 20, 2025 – Easter Sunday!

One week after Palm Sunday, we will celebrate Easter in our new building (downstairs in the Fellowship Hall – rear entrance).

🕘 9:00 AM – Intergenerational Worship
🕚 11:00 AM – Worship Service + Children’s Ministry

Easter is one of the most attended Sundays of the year, and what an incredible opportunity to invite people into our new space to hear the message of Jesus’ resurrection and new life!

🎉 Be sure to grab your invites, door hangers, and magnets at any of our services.

🙌 How You Can Help

✅ Volunteer for Moving Day (April 6):
Help move, pack, and transport items.
👉 Sign up to help

✅ Stay Connected:
Make sure we have your current contact info so you can receive updates via email or text.
👉 Update your info here

✅ Invite Others:
Share the news about our move and invite people to Palm Sunday (April 13) and Easter Sunday (April 20)!
👉 Sign up for the Street Team

✅ Pray for the Transition:
We are trusting God to guide us through every step of this exciting time.
👉 Submit prayer requests or join the prayer team

We are so excited about this new chapter and can’t wait to celebrate with you! Stay tuned for more updates, and we look forward to seeing you this Sunday at East Main as we prepare for this big transition.

Celebrating our King,
Zoe Hatcher
Lead Pastor
www.oachurch.com
Open Arms Community Church
1289 E. Main St., Bradford, PA
📞 814-368-8846
📧 zoe@oachurch.com

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” – Galatians 2:20

40 Days of Sharing

Kickoff Event for 40 Days of Sharing – Join Us in Spreading God’s Love!

As we step into the season of Lent, Open Arms is excited to launch 40 Days of Sharing—a time of community, kindness, and sharing God’s love, one neighbor at a time. This journey will lead us up to Easter, and we invite you to be part of something truly meaningful.

What is 40 Days of Sharing?

During these 40 days, we are committing to spreading the good news of God through acts of kindness and love in our community. This is an opportunity to come together, build relationships, and make a difference in the lives of those around us. And what better way to begin than with a night of prayer and worship?

Join Us for the Kickoff Event!

To start this journey, we will be gathering for a special Prayer & Worship Night on:

📅 Wednesday, March 5th
⏰ 6:00 PM
📍 Open Arms Auditorium

This night will be a time of worship, prayer, and dedication, as we ask God to guide us in this mission. We’ll come together as a church family to surrender this time to Him and seek His direction as we step out to love and serve our neighbors.

Why 40 Days?

Lent is a season of reflection and preparation, leading us to the celebration of Easter. Just as Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness preparing for His ministry, we will use this time to intentionally share His love with those around us.

This year, as we move into a new community, we see this as a divine opportunity to bring hope and kindness to new neighbors. Every small act of love matters, and together, we can make a big impact.

Be Part of the Movement

We believe God is calling us to action—to be His hands and feet in this world. Whether it’s through a kind word, a helping hand, or simply being present for someone in need, we can be a reflection of Christ’s love.

Are you ready to make a difference and be part of something bigger? Join our Mission Team and help spread God’s love through acts of service, kindness, and outreach! Whether you have a heart for prayer, serving others, or building connections in our community, there’s a place for you. Sign up today and take the next step in being the hands and feet of Jesus!

Click here to join the team: Mission Team Sign-Up Form

We encourage everyone to join us for the kickoff event and be part of this incredible season of sharing. Let’s come together in prayer, worship, and community as we prepare our hearts for what God has in store.

Let’s make these 40 days count—one neighbor at a time.

See you on March 5th! 🙌✨

game night - things to do in bradford pa

Community Fun Night: GAME NIGHT

Looking for a fun and safe way to enjoy “The Big Game” with friends and family? Open Arms Community Church invites you to join us for a Community Fun Night filled with food, games, and fellowship!

Event Details:

📅 Sunday, February 9
⏰ 6 PM – 8 PM
📍 Children’s Ministry Area at Open Arms Community Church

Come watch “The Big Game” on the big TV while enjoying board games, great company, and delicious snacks. Wear your favorite game day attire, bring your favorite game day snacks to share, and get ready for a night of fun and connection.

We’re also looking for volunteers to help with setup, hosting, and cleanup. If you’re interested, reach out to Angel Atkinson at angelcare@oachurch.com.

This is a great opportunity to enjoy the game, meet new people, and spend time together in a safe and welcoming environment. Whether you’re a football fan or just looking for a fun way to spend the evening, we’d love to see you there!

Join Us!

If you’re looking for things to do in Bradford, PA, this is the perfect event for you. Bring your family, bring your friends, and let’s make it a night to remember!

For more information, visit Open Arms Community Church or follow us on social media.

Community Fun Night Flyer - Open Arms Community Church in Bradford PA
Things to do in Bradford PA

February Events at a Glance

Looking for things to do in Bradford, PA this February? Open Arms Community Church has some exciting events lined up for all ages! Whether you’re looking for fellowship, fun, or ways to serve, there’s something for everyone.

Community Fun Night: Game Night

Sunday, February 9 | 6 PM – 8 PM
Join us in the Children’s Ministry Area for a night of fellowship and board games, with the BIG GAME streaming in the background! Everyone is welcome, so wear your favorite game day attire and bring your favorite game day snacks.

Fun for all ages!

We are also looking for volunteers to help with setup, hosting, and cleanup. If you’re interested, please see Angel Atkinson or email her at angelcare@oachurch.com.

Operation Christmas Child – February Collection: Hygiene Items

Throughout the month of February, we are collecting hygiene items for Operation Christmas Child. Items needed include washcloths, toothbrushes, and combs. Your donations will help bless children around the world. Drop off your contributions at the church any time this month!

“Friday Night Lights” Community Youth Gathering

Friday, February 28 | 6 PM – 8 PM
All youth in grades 6-12 are invited to join us at Grace Lutheran Church for a night of fellowship with youth groups from across the area. This is a great opportunity to connect with other students, build friendships, and grow together in faith.

We’d love to see you at any of these events! If you’re looking for things to do in Bradford, PA, Open Arms Community Church is a great place to connect, serve, and grow. Invite your friends and family—we can’t wait to spend time together!

For more information, contact the church or follow us on social media.

Family Fun Night - things to do in Bradford PA

Join Us for a Night of Family Fun at Open Arms Community Church!

Looking for exciting family-friendly events in Bradford, PA? Mark your calendar for Family Fun Night at Open Arms Community Church on Saturday, January 11th at 6 PM!

Event Highlight: The BIGGEST Sandwich Challenge!

Get ready to unleash your creativity and appetite as we dive into a fun-filled evening of fellowship and laughter. Can you and your family craft the BIGGEST sandwich? Whether you’re a master sandwich architect or just looking to share some laughs, this event promises a memorable night for all ages.

What to Expect:

  • Delicious Fun: Bring your appetite and join the sandwich-building challenge!
  • Laughter and Fellowship: Connect with other families in the community.
  • A Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Enjoy a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

Don’t miss this opportunity to bond with your family and meet new friends. We can’t wait to see you and share in the joy of this special evening!

Location: Open Arms Community Church, Bradford, PA
Date & Time: Saturday, January 11th at 6 PM

Bring your family, your creativity, and your appetite. Let’s make unforgettable memories together!

Things to do in Bradford pa - January 2025

January at a Glance | Open Arms Community Church

If you’re looking for things to do in Bradford, PA this January or searching for a welcoming church in Bradford, PA, Open Arms Community Church has a full month of exciting events and opportunities for all ages. From family fun to spiritual growth, there’s something for everyone.

Operation Christmas Child: January Collection

At Open Arms, we’re kicking off the new year by continuing our mission to bless children around the world. For the month of January, we are collecting hygiene items for Operation Christmas Child:

  • Washcloths
  • Toothbrushes
  • Combs

Your contributions help share love and hope to children in need. Bring your donations to the church throughout January and be part of this incredible outreach!

Family Fun Night | Saturday, January 11th at 6 PM

Looking for family-friendly events in Bradford, PA? Join us for a Night of Family Fun and Fellowship at Open Arms Community Church!

Event Highlight:

  • Let’s see who can make the BIGGEST Sandwich! Whether you’re bringing your creativity or just coming for the laughs and fun, you’re guaranteed a great time with family and friends.

Bring your appetite and your family – we can’t wait to see you there!

Encounter Weekend | Friday, January 16th & Saturday, January 17th

We invite you to Encounter Weekend at Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA. This powerful two-day event is more than just a training – it’s an opportunity to have an Encounter with the Holy Spirit!

Details:

  • Dates: Friday, January 16th & Saturday, January 17th
  • Location: Open Arms Community Church

This event is designed for disciple-makers discerning their next steps and for anyone seeking a deeper connection with God. We have been praying for you, and we truly believe God will move in a mighty way. Don’t miss this life-changing experience!

Community Youth Night | Friday, January 24th

Calling all youth! Join us for a night of fellowship and fun with other local youth groups and churches in Bradford.

Event Details:

  • Date: Friday, January 24th
  • Time: 6 PM to 8 PM
  • Location: Grace Lutheran Church

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, share life together, and build friendships with other teens in our community. Let’s come together in fellowship and faith!

things to do in bradford pa

Get Involved This January!

Whether you’re attending a Family Fun Night, seeking spiritual renewal at Encounter Weekend, or encouraging our youth at Community Youth Night, Open Arms Community Church offers meaningful ways to connect and grow. We invite you to experience the love, joy, and community that our church family shares.

Looking for events in Bradford, PA or a welcoming church in Bradford, PA? Open Arms Community Church is here for you. Mark your calendars and join us this January!

Open Arms Community Church
Bradford, PA
Your home for faith, family, and fellowship.

Christmas Eve's Eve

Celebrate the Magic of Christmas Eve’s Eve at Open Arms Community Church

The Christmas season is a time of joy, celebration, and reflection. At Open Arms Community Church, we’re kicking off the season with a special event that you won’t want to miss – Christmas Eve’s Eve, on December 23 at 6 PM & 8 PM.

What is Christmas Eve’s Eve?

Christmas Eve’s Eve is a beautiful tradition that has become a cherished part of our holiday celebrations. It’s a night for families, friends, and individuals to come together and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, a celebration of love, hope, and the birth of Jesus Christ.

At Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA, we’ve designed this special service to be a warm and welcoming experience for all. Whether you’ve been attending church for years or this is your first time stepping through the doors, you’ll find a place to celebrate and connect with others. We believe in creating an atmosphere where people can experience the joy of the season and reflect on what Christmas is truly about.

An Evening of Music, Performances, and Meaning

Christmas Eve's Eve Service in Bradford PA

Christmas Eve’s Eve at Open Arms is a night full of heartwarming music, festive performances, and a meaningful message. Our talented worship team will lead us in singing beloved Christmas carols, filling the space with the sounds of the season. The music sets the tone for a night of celebration and reflection.

A highlight of the evening is our children’s skit, a fun and joyful performance that brings the Christmas story to life in a way that will captivate both young and old. It’s a perfect moment for families to come together and enjoy the season, with the kids taking part in something special that will create lasting memories.

Our pastor will share an inspiring message that brings the true meaning of Christmas to the forefront. In the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, it’s easy to forget the real reason we celebrate – the birth of Jesus Christ. This service provides an opportunity to pause, reflect, and focus on the love and hope that the Christmas story brings to the world.

A Warm and Welcoming Community

At Open Arms, we pride ourselves on being a church that is welcoming and inclusive. Whether you’re a long-time member or a first-time guest, we want you to feel at home. The holiday season is about coming together and celebrating with those we love, and we hope that you’ll consider inviting your friends and family to join us for this special service.

There’s something truly special about coming together with the community to celebrate Christmas. It’s a chance to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and share in the joy of the season. We encourage you to bring your loved ones – no matter where they are in their spiritual journey – to experience the magic of Christmas Eve’s Eve with us.

Bus Schedule for Christmas Eve’s Eve
We will be running the Bus for the 6PM Christmas Eve’s Eve service – you can find that information at the Christmas Eve’s Eve Website

Join Us for Christmas Eve’s Eve!

We can’t wait to celebrate with you! Join us at Open Arms Community Church on December 23 at 6 PM & 8 PM for a night filled with music, performances, and a message of hope. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful way to start your Christmas celebrations or simply want to experience the joy of the season with a warm and welcoming community, Christmas Eve’s Eve is the perfect event for you.

We look forward to seeing you there – and don’t forget to bring a friend!

For more information, visit http://christmaseveseve.com.

Things to do in Bradford PA at Christmastime

December Family Fun Night

You’re Invited: Family Fun Christmas Event at Open Arms Community Church!

Looking for a way to make this Christmas season extra special? Open Arms Community Church is hosting a heartwarming Family Fun Christmas event on Saturday, December 14th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and you’re invited!

This evening is all about connection, laughter, and holiday joy, and whether you’re coming with family, friends, or just yourself, you’ll feel right at home.

“We really want to let people know they’re welcome here,” shared Angel Atkinson, Open Arms Care Coordinator. “Think of this as a family gathering. If you need a family to be a part of, we’re your family.”

What to Look Forward To:

  • 🍪 Cookie Exchange: Bring a dozen of your favorite homemade cookies and trade them for a variety of delicious holiday treats.
  • 🎁 White Elephant Gift Exchange: Find a small treasure from home, wrap it up, and join in the fun!
  • 🎨 Crafting Fun: Families can make a special Christmas craft together – perfect for creating memories (and maybe even a new holiday decoration).

“At Open Arms, we believe in the power of community and fellowship,” Angel added. “This event is a way for us to come together, celebrate the season, and build meaningful connections.”

This event is completely free and open to everyone – so don’t hesitate to come, even if you’re new to the area or just looking for a warm, welcoming place to celebrate.

Mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and join us for an evening of holiday cheer. We can’t wait to see you there!

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