Menu

microchurch

things to do in Bradford pa

Ladies’ Community Movie Night at Open Arms Community Church

Women from across the Bradford area are invited to join us for a special Community Movie Night on Friday, May 29, at Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA.

Hosted by the Engage Prayer and EmpowHer microchurches, this evening is designed to create a welcoming space for women to gather, connect, and be encouraged through a powerful documentary-style film focused on healing, identity, and the love of a perfect Heavenly Father.

Many women carry wounds from broken relationships, rejection, abandonment, or difficult experiences growing up. This event is meant to offer hope, encouragement, and the reminder that no one has to walk through those struggles alone.

The evening will include pizza, popcorn, snacks, drinks, and time together with other women in a relaxed and supportive environment.

The featured film is appropriate for teen girls and adult women, though some sensitive themes are discussed. Parents are encouraged to use discretion for younger teens.

Event Details

Friday, May 29, 2026
6:30 PM
Open Arms Community Church – Fellowship Hall
71 Congress Street
Bradford, PA

Registration is encouraged but not required.

Whether you’re coming with friends, family, your microchurch, or walking in by yourself, you are welcome here.

If you’re looking for a church in Bradford, PA where you can find community, healing, and hope, we’d love to meet you.

Free Spirit Redeemer's Chapel

A River on the Move: Free Spirit Redeemer’s Chapel is Newest Church Plant

Some churches are built to gather. Others are built to grow. And some – like Open Arms Community Church –  are built to GO!

God is moving in EXACTLY that way RIGHT NOW! A brand-new church plant, Free Spirit Redeemer’s Chapel, is launching in Custer City at 68 Minard Run Road. It begins with a soft launch this Friday at 7 p.m., with its official weekly gatherings kicking off on Good Friday (April 3) at 7 p.m.

The latest church plant in the Open Arms Community Church network is a river running freely. As Lead Pastor Zoe Hatcher puts it: “We see the church as a river, not a reservoir.”

Let’s celebrate what happens when a church truly lives out its mission: raising people up and sending them out. Jesus calls us to discipleship. We are listening and obeying!

We hope to see you for the launch. Let’s keep the river flowing (and learn what Free Spirit Redeemer’s Chapel is about).

🎸 Worship That’s Real & Unapologetic

Free Spirit won’t be your typical church experience

Free Spirit Redeemer’s Chapel will take high-energy musical worship to new levels – mixed with raw testimony and Scripture reflection that meets people where they are.

But it’s about authenticity more than volume. Free Spirit will be a space for:

  • People who may not feel comfortable in traditional settings
  • People who’ve been through some tough things in life
  • People who are still figuring it out

In other words: real people. Loving God, Loving people. Sound like the Open Arms mission to you? 

🙌 Leadership That Was Built, Not Imported

At the center of this story are Co-Pastors Shawn Pierce and Rich Dennison and their beautiful families.

Their leadership wasn’t hired from the outside. It was built over time – through years of service, friendship, worship, and obedience. Those who’ve attended Open Arms before have likely seen Shawn and Rich on either the praise band stage or working the sound system. (Did we mention they LOVE music?)

“Rich has been my best friend for more than 20 years,” Pastor Shawn said. “We’ve played music together, watched our kids grow up, and walked through ministry side by side.”

They’ve led together. Served together. Grown together. And now – they’re stepping into something new together.

“We’ve been saying, ‘Here I am, Lord, send me,’ for years,” Pierce said. “At some point, you have to stop saying it and start living it.”

That moment is now.

🌱 From Microchurch to Movement

What makes this launch even more powerful is where it came from. Free Spirit Redeemer’s Chapel didn’t just appear overnight. It grew out of The Least of These Riders, a microchurch at Open Arms.

What started as a group of Christian bikers gathering weekly in faith has grown into a full-fledged congregation.

That same model has already led to successful church plants in Port Allegany and Lewis Run. Now, it’s happening again – this time in Custer City with Free Spirit.

If you’re not familiar with microchurches, they’re one of the most impactful shifts Open Arms has made in recent years. Our church reimagines discipleship – not as something that happens in rows of pews, but in circles. 

  • Small, tight-knit groups
  • Real conversations
  • Real accountability
  • Shared burdens
  • Growth that actually sticks.

(From the EmpowHer women’s group to the Homecoming Recovery addiction support group, we have plenty of microchurches to serve people’s unique needs of spiritual growth and connection.)

It works. That’s why we do it. 

People need spiritual nourishment and true human connection during the week, too. We’ve seen true spiritual growth and faith transformation happening in real time. Families aren’t just restored on Sundays. Addictions aren’t toppled by sermons. Lives aren’t redeemed by communion.

These things require ongoing love and attention.

🌊 A Church That Sends, Not Just Gathers

Pastor Zoe describes a river of faith. That’s what Open Arms does.

We don’t just build bigger rooms to fit more people. It builds people, and spirits in Christ don’t grow in confinement.

  • People who are willing to be shaped.
  • People who are willing to grow.
  • People who are willing to go.

“This is what it looks like to trust God with people,” Hatcher said. “Not to hold onto them, but to release them into what He’s calling them to do.”

Free Spirit Redeemer’s Chapel is the next step in that mission. It’s not a copy. It’s not a franchise. It’s a new expression of the same heartbeat — reaching people who feel overlooked, disconnected, or unsure where they belong.

🚪 An Invitation to Something Real

If you’ve ever felt like church wasn’t for you…

If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t quite fit…

If you’ve been looking for something real… Free Spirit Redeemer’s Chapel is it! 

Friday nights. Real people. Great music. Honest faith. And a community that’s just getting started.

Because when a river moves, it brings life everywhere it goes.

Sunday Dinner Microchurch

Sunday Dinner Microchurch: Updated Schedule Through Summer 2026

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.

Allan Scott - Story Tour - Kane PA

A Night of Hope & Healing: The Story Tour Comes to Kane

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.
  • Purchase tickets here: Get Tickets
  • 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.

life skills group in bradford pa

Hope in Life: A New Microchurch for Spirit, Mind, and Body

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.

For more information about Open Arms Community Church and its network of microchurches, or to sign up for Hope in Life: click here.

paint and praise

🍂 Paint & Praise: A Fall Afternoon of Creativity and Worship

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
  • Cost: Free (registration required)
  • Capacity: Limited to 20 participants

👉 Space is limited! Reserve your spot today through our online registration form.

Come create, connect, and celebrate God’s goodness this season—we’d love to see you there!

worship at pitt bradford

Sunday Night Worship at UPB – October 5, 2025

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!

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.

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

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.

Load More