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:
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.
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:
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!
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.
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
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
After much prayer and anticipation, we are thrilled to announce that Open Arms Community Church has a confirmed moving date! We have 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 have gathered for the past 22 years.
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 will have lunch together and then begin packing up and moving to the new location. We need all hands on deck, so if you’re available to help, please sign up using our upcoming QR code or sign-up sheet.
🌿 April 13, 2025 – First Sunday in Our New Home – Palm Sunday!
Our first worship services at 71 Congress St. will take place on Palm Sunday, April 13! What a powerful way to begin this new chapter—on the very day we remember Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem!
Two services at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM (as we will be worshiping downstairs while the front entry ramp is under construction).
Let’s come together to celebrate what God has done and prepare our hearts for Holy Week!
✝️ April 20, 2025 – Easter Sunday!
One week later, we celebrate Easter in our new building!
Two services at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM
Easter Sunday is one of the most attended Sundays of the year, and what an amazing opportunity to invite people into our new space to hear the message of Jesus’ resurrection and new life!
Start inviting friends, neighbors, and family members now—we want to fill the house with worship and celebration!
How You Can Help:
✅ Volunteer for Moving Day (April 6) – Sign up to help move, pack, or transport items. ✅ Stay Connected – Ensure we have your current contact information to receive updates via email or text. ✅ Invite Others – Share the news about our move and invite people to Palm Sunday (April 13) and Easter Sunday (April 20)! ✅ Pray for the Transition – We are trusting God to guide us in this exciting time.
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.
With gratitude and anticipation, The Open Arms Community Church Team
For over 15 years, Open Arms Community Church has been blessed to participate in Operation Christmas Child (OCC)—a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse that shares the love of Christ with children around the world through simple yet powerful shoebox gifts.
This ministry has been a labor of love for our church family, and we are especially grateful for Sally Newton, who has faithfully led this effort for many years. Through her dedication—and the generosity of so many in our church—thousands of shoeboxes have been packed and sent to children in at least 25 different countries.
Now, as we look ahead, our approach to Operation Christmas Child will be changing, but our commitment to this vital ministry remains as strong as ever.
Where Our Shoeboxes Went This Year
This past year, our shoeboxes were delivered to Liberia, a country in West Africa with a unique and complex history. Originally established as a homeland for freed slaves from the United States, Liberia has faced many challenges, including civil wars and severe health crises. Some may remember the Ebola outbreak of the early 2000s, during which Liberia was one of the hardest-hit nations. Samaritan’s Purse played a crucial role in providing medical relief, and today, Operation Christmas Child continues to bring hope to Liberia’s children through the power of the Gospel.
A Ministry That Has Impacted Thousands
Since our church began packing shoeboxes in 2009, what started as a small Sunday school project has grown into something much greater. We have seen our shoeboxes go to:
Countries across Africa, Eastern Europe, and the Baltics.
Remote and sensitive regions where the Gospel is difficult to share.
Ukraine and other areas repeatedly in need of aid.
Because of these efforts, only eternity will reveal the full impact of this ministry. But we trust that hundreds—perhaps thousands—of children have come to know Jesus because of these small gifts packed with love by our church family.
A New Approach to OCC
While our hearts remain fully committed to Operation Christmas Child, the way we participate will look different this year. Managing the logistics of traditional shoebox packing requires year-round effort, and as Sally transitions into a less hands-on role, we want to ensure this ministry continues in a way that is sustainable for our church family.
Packing Shoeboxes Online
Going forward, we will be participating in OCC by packing shoeboxes online through Samaritan’s Purse. This method allows us to:
Reach remote and restricted-access areas that are difficult to serve with traditional shoeboxes.
Support special initiatives, such as delivering shoeboxes to South Pacific islands, where supplies must be transported by ship.
Ensure that items included are appropriate for sensitive regions where sharing the Gospel must be done carefully.
Rather than gathering physical donations, we will collect financial contributions throughout the year, allowing us to pack shoeboxes online on a quarterly basis.
Stay Connected for Updates!
We will be working on ways to keep you updated about this new approach through the Open Arms website and social media! Stay tuned for regular updates on how many shoeboxes we’ve packed, stories of impact, and opportunities to get involved. Be sure to follow us online so you don’t miss out on how God is using our church to bless children around the world!
How You Can Help
We are inviting everyone in our church to consider a small monthly donation to support OCC.
Here’s the Challenge:
If 100 people gave just $5 per month, we would raise $2,000 per quarter, enabling us to pack hundreds of shoeboxes by year’s end.
If some are able to contribute $10 or more per month, the impact would be even greater.
Church Matching Fund
To double our impact, Open Arms Community Church has committed to matching donations up to the amount allocated in our OCC budget. This means every dollar given will be multiplied, allowing us to bless even more children.
How to Give
To contribute, simply designate your gift to Operation Christmas Child when giving through the church. On the ministry envelopes, there is a specific box for OCC donations.
Thank You, Sally!
As we make this transition, we want to express our deepest gratitude to Sally Newton for her years of faithful leadership in this ministry. Her dedication has made a tremendous impact—not only in the lives of children around the world but also in the hearts of those in our church who have been blessed to take part in this effort.
We are also grateful that Sally remains committed to ensuring this ministry continues in a sustainable way. She will continue to oversee the transition and is looking for a few individuals willing to help manage our online shoebox packing efforts.
If you are interested in serving in this way, please reach out!
Join Us in This Mission
Though the way we pack shoeboxes is changing, our mission remains the same: to share the love of Christ with children worldwide.
Through this new approach, we will continue to impact lives, bringing hope to those who need it most.
Thank you for being part of this incredible ministry—one shoebox at a time!
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!
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.
Exciting changes are coming to Open Arms Community Church! Very soon, we’ll be relocating from 1289 East Main Street to 71 Congress Street in Bradford.
We’re still waiting for the final legal paperwork to go through, but in the meantime, we’ve started packing boxes and moving items into storage. We could use your help! If you’re interested in lending a hand, please contact our office at bradford@oachurch.com or speak with one of our ministry leaders. They’ll let you know when and how you can assist.
For now, we’re still meeting at 1289 East Main Street for our 10 AM Sunday service until further notice.
Once we make the move, our service times may change, so be sure to check back here for updates. Thank you for your prayers and support as we prepare for this exciting transition!
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!
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!
Open Arms Community Church and Church Development Network hosted our January Encounter Weekend January 17 & 18.
What is Encounter?
Encounter is an in-person worship, prayer, and training experience that equips participants with strategies for multiplication. This transformative weekend is the beginning of a mentorship journey designed to guide individuals in planting churches and making disciples.
Highlights from the Weekend
14 Attendees
6 Trainers
2 Churches Conceived
4 Church Planters Inspired to Multiply
To God be the glory!
The term “church conceived” signifies a powerful moment when an individual responds to God’s call to plant a church. This Encounter Weekend was a catalyst for such life-changing decisions.
Additionally, many who are currently leading microchurches were refreshed in their calling. Even those not yet ready to plant a microchurch experienced a renewed sense of purpose, hearing from the Lord and feeling the call to move forward in disciple-making.
Join Us for the Next Encounter Weekend
We invite you to get plugged into our upcoming Encounter Weekend in July right here in Bradford. Whether you’re exploring your faith, leading a microchurch, or feeling called to plant a new church, this experience offers the training and support you need to grow.
Stay tuned for more details, and we hope to see you there!
Celebrate God’s Faithfulness: Open Arms 2024 Wrapped
As we look back on 2024, we can’t help but be in awe of what God has done through Open Arms Community Church. From local outreach initiatives to life-changing baptisms, God has been at work in incredible ways, and we want to celebrate those moments with YOU!
Our 2024 Wrapped highlights the many ways God used our church family to make an impact. Whether it was reaching our community through the shoe outreach, supporting international missions, or providing essential resources to those in need, it’s been a year full of heart and action.
In 2024, we saw 23 salvations and 33 baptisms, and together, we raised over $5,000 for Angels of East Africa. God’s love flowed through us in ways that only He could orchestrate, and we’re so thankful for everyone who answered the call to serve and give.
But this doesn’t even cover it all! The stories we can’t track—people helping one another, prayers answered in quiet moments, and the countless acts of love that make up the fabric of our church—are just as important and meaningful. We don’t need the credit. All glory goes to God, who works in and through us.
So, let’s celebrate what Jesus has done this year! Check out our 2024 Wrapped and rejoice with us. Whether you’ve been part of a small group, volunteered at an event, or given to support our mission, you’re part of something bigger than yourself.
Together, we’ve made 2024 unforgettable. Here’s to even more of God’s work in 2025!
