This March, we’re launching something new for our church family — a monthly Family Fun Afternoon at Open Arms Community Church.
Beginning Sunday, March 15, we’ll gather every third Sunday after second service for a relaxed time of food, fellowship, and a fun activity together.
Our first gathering will celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day with a themed potluck and a creative activity.
Event Details
📅 Sunday, March 15, 2026 🕧 12:30 PM (right after second service) 📍 Open Arms Community Church Fellowship Hall & Kitchen
Everyone is invited — church family, friends, and community members.
Potluck Lunch
Bring your favorite Irish-inspired dish to share with everyone.
Activity: Beginner Quill Card Craft
After the meal, Angel Atkinson will teach a beginner-friendly paper quilling card activity for anyone who would like to stay and participate.
No experience needed — just come ready to try something creative.
Wear Your Green!
Since this is our Saint Patrick’s Day themed kickoff, don’t forget to wear green!
A New Monthly Tradition
This event launches a new rhythm for our church family:
Every third Sunday, we’ll gather for a bring-a-dish potluck after second service, followed by a fun themed activity. Each month will feature something different.
It’s a great opportunity to connect with others, build friendships, and enjoy time together as a church family.
On Saturday, March 28, we’re inviting our church family and youth to experience one of the biggest nights of Christian music of the year: Winter Jam 2026 at the Bryce Jordan Center in State College, PA.
Winter Jam is the largest annual Christian music tour in the United States, bringing together top artists from across the Christian music world for a powerful evening of worship and encouragement.
This year’s lineup includes artists like Chris Tomlin, Matthew West, Katy Nichole, Hulvey, Disciple, Emerson Day, and Newsong, along with speaker Zane Black.
Event Details
📅 Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026 🕕 Show Time: 6:00 PM 🚪 Doors Open: 5:00 PM 📍 Location: Bryce Jordan Center, State College, PA
One of the great things about Winter Jam is that no tickets are required. Admission is simply a $15 donation at the door, making it an affordable way for youth, families, and friends to experience an incredible night of worship together.
Why We’re Going
This event is a great opportunity to:
Worship together with thousands of believers
Experience live Christian music
Encourage our youth to grow in their faith
Invite friends and families to join us
Events like this help create meaningful moments where students, parents, and church families can encounter God together.
Interested in Joining Us?
This event is open to youth and anyone who wants to attend.
If you have questions or want more information, contact:
Sunday Dinner is a Young Adults microchurch of Open Arms Community Church, centered on shared meals, meaningful conversation, and growing together through Scripture. If you’re a young adult looking for community and a place to belong, you’re invited to join us.
Our New Rhythm
Beginning this season, Sunday Dinner will meet twice a month, typically on the 2nd and 4th Sundays. Each gathering includes a shared dinner and Bible study as we continue walking together through the Gospel of John.
There will be a few exceptions due to holidays, so we encourage you to check the schedule below and plan ahead.
Sunday Dinner Schedule
All regular gatherings begin at 5:00 PM and take place at:
📍 869 West Washington Street Bradford, PA
January
Sunday, January 18 — Regular Bible Study & Dinner | 5 PM
February
Sunday, February 8 — Super Bowl Party | 5 PM A great night to invite friends and newcomers.
Sunday, February 22 — Regular Bible Study & Dinner | 5 PM
March
Sunday, March 8 — Regular Bible Study & Dinner | 5 PM
Sunday, March 22 — Regular Bible Study & Dinner | 5 PM
Sunday, March 29 (Palm Sunday) — No dinner. Joint Youth & Young Adults gathering at Pitt Chapel, leading worship | 7 PM
April
Sunday, April 12 — Regular Bible Study & Dinner | 5 PM
Sunday, April 26 — Regular Bible Study & Dinner | 5 PM
May
Sunday, May 17 — Regular Bible Study & Dinner | 5 PM
Sunday, May 31 — Regular Bible Study & Dinner | 5 PM
June
Sunday, June 14 — Regular Bible Study & Dinner | 5 PM
Sunday, June 28 — Regular Bible Study & Dinner | 5 PM
What to Expect
Sunday Dinner is a relaxed, welcoming space for young adults. Whether you’ve been part of church for years or you’re just starting to explore faith, you’re welcome here.
A shared meal around the table
Bible study with room for discussion and questions
Genuine community and connection
No sign-up required. Just come as you are.
We’d love to see you at Sunday Dinner Microchurch, meeting at 869 West Washington Street in Bradford, PA. There’s always room at the table — bring a friend or come on your own.
Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025 Location: Kane Area High School (6965 PA-321, Kane, PA 16735)
What is The Story Tour?
The Story Tour is a live event experience built around one truth: “Your story’s not over.” It’s a powerful evening of music, testimony, and ministry, aimed especially at anyone facing a mountain in life—addiction, depression, broken relationships, or simply the challenge of believing there’s more for them.
Highlights of the evening include:
Music by Allan Scott Band, whose lead singer Allan Scott is a former drug-addict turned worship leader and speaker.
Testimony from Travis Habbershon, a suicide-survivor, pastor and author who now lives in Pennsylvania with 16 years clean and sober.
A selection of “God-stories” from around the U.S.—freedom from substance abuse, restoration of marriages, deliverance from depression—offered live and via video.
A welcoming, inter-denominational environment: people from all church backgrounds (or none) are invited to come and receive hope.
“You will leave full of hope and believing that God can restore any situation!”
Why you’ll want to bring others
This isn’t just another concert or speaker event. It’s built around real-life stories of brokenness and redemption. If you or someone you care about is walking through a difficult season—whether addiction, relational pain, mental health struggles or just “I feel stuck”—this evening is designed for you. The website puts it this way:
“Facing unbeatable odds? An addiction? A mountain in your life? ….. Are you the family member of someone dealing with substance abuse? Is your marriage going through a difficult season? … This night was designed for you!”
It also provides a strong opportunity for outreach: invite friends, neighbors, coworkers who might be reluctant to visit a church service but could be drawn to a “night of hope & healing.”
Event Details & Ticket Info
Doors open 5:30 pm (VIP), general admission 6:00 pm, event begins 6:30 pm.
Some testimony and topics may not be suitable for young children—please use your discretion.
Bring your friends, bring someone who needs hope—and come expecting that God can heal any hurt, move any mountain, and restore any situation.
How Open Arms Is Showing Up
At Open Arms Community Church, we believe that hope is something we show up for. The Story Tour isn’t just another event passing through town—it’s an opportunity for us to stand with people in our community who are walking through hard seasons and to remind them that their story isn’t over.
Several of our microchurches will be attending and serving that night—coming together to pray, connect, and support what God is doing through this ministry. We want to be present in the room, ready to encourage, to listen, and to love people right where they are.
Our hope is that everyone who walks through those doors feels the genuine welcome and compassion of Jesus. Whether someone’s coming from a place of addiction, heartbreak, doubt, or just searching for something real—we want them to know they’re not alone.
We’re showing up not just as a church, but as friends, neighbors, and fellow travelers who believe in redemption and new beginnings.
How you can help
Buy your tickets early—and consider inviting someone who might not buy one unless you asked them.
Pray for the event: for Allan, Travis, the band, the testimonies, the setup team, and our church’s team.
Serve on the night if possible: greeting, hospitality, guiding guests, offering follow-up connections.
Follow up with anyone you bring or meet: an event like this can be the beginning of a new chapter, but the real change happens in the days and weeks after.
A final word
If you’ve ever felt like you’re on the edge—maybe you’ve looked at your life and thought “this can’t get any worse,” or “who cares if I try anymore”—this is your invitation to believe that your story’s still being written. The Story Tour isn’t about church-ritual or performance per se, it’s about real lives, broken places, healing steps, and the God who makes all things new.
As the event tagline says: “Heal any hurt. Move any mountain. Restore any situation.”
We are excited to host this powerful night in Kane—and can’t wait to see how God moves through our church body and our community.
Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA is launching a new microchurch called Hope in Life, led by Angel Atkinson. This weekly gathering is designed to nurture the whole person—spirit, mind, and body—through faith, conversation, and hands-on learning.
Hope in Life meets every Friday evening from 5–7 p.m. Each week includes a time in the Bible, space for group discussion, and an opportunity to practice a new skill. The focus changes weekly, from cooking and sewing to self-care, cleaning, or even understanding emotions. On the fourth Friday of each month, the group hosts a shared dinner, creating an atmosphere of friendship and community.
Angel’s heart for this ministry is to provide a place where practical tools and spiritual encouragement come together. By offering both, Hope in Life helps participants grow stronger in faith while also equipping them with everyday skills that build confidence and hope.
Why Hope in Life Matters
True wholeness touches every part of life. Struggles with daily routines can often weigh down the heart, just as spiritual burdens can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming. Hope in Life creates a safe place where people can find encouragement, learn together, and discover that God cares about their entire well-being—spirit, mind, and body.
Refer Someone Who You Know
Hope in Life is not just for those who already know what they need. Sometimes the best way to help is simply to extend an invitation. Friends, neighbors, or family members may benefit from a group like this even if they would never ask for it themselves. Referrals are a vital part of this ministry—pointing someone toward a supportive community can open the door to healing, growth, and renewed hope.
Hope in Life meets every Friday from 5–7 p.m. at Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA, and is led by Angel Atkinson. This microchurch is committed to walking alongside people as they grow stronger spiritually, emotionally, and practically.
You’re invited to a unique fall event at Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA! On Saturday, October 11, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM, join us for Paint & Praise: Fall Edition, hosted by Engage Prayer.
🎨 What is Paint & Praise?
Paint & Praise is more than just a painting activity—it’s a chance to blend creativity, community, and worship. Together we’ll create a fall-themed painting, enjoy good company, and lift our hearts in praise. You don’t need to be an artist—this event is designed for everyone, no matter your skill level.
🍪 Homemade Treats from Harvest of Faith Microchurch
To make the afternoon even sweeter, Harvest of Faith Microchurch is preparing homemade treats for everyone to enjoy. It’s the perfect way to round out a cozy, faith-filled fall gathering.
🙌 Why Join Us?
Enjoy a fun, fall-themed painting project.
Connect with others in a warm, welcoming environment.
Savor homemade snacks.
Experience how art and worship can refresh your spirit.
📅 Event Details
Date: Saturday, October 11
Time: 3:00 – 5:00 PM
Location: Open Arms Community Church, Bradford, PA
We’d love for you to join us this Sunday, October 5th at 7PM for a worship service on campus at the Harriet B. Wick Chapel, University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.
This special event is being sponsored by the Sunday Dinner Microchurch, a group of young adults who meet every Sunday at 5PM at the Hatcher House (869 West Washington Street) for dinner, connection, and conversation. After gathering around the table, the group is heading over to UPB to host this night of worship — and you’re invited to be part of it!
🙌 What to Expect
Live worship music
A welcoming community of students and friends
An opportunity to pause, reflect, and encounter God on campus
📍 Where: Harriet B. Wick Chapel, University of Pittsburgh at Bradford 🕖 When: Sunday, October 5, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Bring a friend, or come on your own—you’ll find community waiting for you. Whether you join us for dinner beforehand or meet us at Wick Chapel for worship, we can’t wait to see you this Sunday night!
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.
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.
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.
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.
