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Saint Patrick’s Day Fun Afternoon at Open Arms

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.

Questions?

Contact:

Angel Atkinson
📧 angelcare@oachurch.com
📞 814-366-1558

Winter Jam

Winter Jam 2026: Join Us for a Night of Worship in State College

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:

Zoe Hatcher
📧 zoe@oachurch.com
📞 814-368-8846

You can also learn more about the event at:
https://jamtour.com

bradford pumpkinfest

After Pumpkinfest, Head Over to Open Arms for Community Fun Night!

Pumpkinfest is one of the highlights of fall here in Bradford, PA—a time for families and friends to gather downtown, enjoy the festivities, and celebrate the season together. This year, the fun doesn’t have to end when Pumpkinfest wraps up.

Open Arms Community Church invites you to keep the celebration going with our Fall Movie Night on Saturday, September 27, from 6:30–8:30 PM.

A Cozy Fall Evening for the Whole Family

Our Community Fun Night will feature a seasonal classic movie. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the timeless story, laughter, and lessons that come with this fall favorite.

And what’s a movie night without treats? We’ll have:

  • Freshly popped popcorn
  • Sweet candy snacks
  • A warm, family-friendly atmosphere

Free and Open to Everyone

This event is completely free and open to the community. Whether you’re part of Open Arms or just looking for something fun to do after Pumpkinfest in Bradford, PA, you’re welcome to join us. Bring your family, bring your friends, and enjoy an evening that’s both fun and meaningful.

Want to Lend a Hand?

We’re also looking for volunteers to help make the night special. Opportunities include:

  • Helping set up before the event
  • Handing out candy
  • Making and serving popcorn
  • Cleaning up after the movie

If you’d like to volunteer, just connect with Angel or Dan at Open Arms.

Join Us After Pumpkinfest!

Don’t head straight home after Pumpkinfest—come on over to Open Arms Community Church at 71 Congress Street in Bradford, PA, for Family Fun Night. It’s the perfect way to wind down the day with a cozy movie, tasty snacks, and great company.

We can’t wait to see you there!

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.

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 for teens in bradford pa

Open Arms Youth Group Christmas Party Recap and Holiday Break Announcement

This past Sunday, Open Arms Youth Group celebrated the season with an unforgettable Christmas party! Teens gathered at 1289 East Main Street in Bradford, PA, to enjoy games, delicious food, and plenty of laughter. It was a joyful evening filled with festive fun, connection, and great memories.

As the holidays approach, we’re taking the next two weeks off to allow everyone to spend quality time with their families. We hope this season brings you peace, joy, and meaningful moments with loved ones.

But don’t worry—our youth group will be back on Friday, January 5th, ready to kick off the new year with exciting activities, impactful discussions, and a welcoming space for teens to grow and connect.

Looking for things to do for teens in Bradford, PA? Open Arms Youth Group offers a positive environment where teens can build friendships, explore their faith, and have fun. Stay tuned for more events and updates in 2024!

We’d love to see you there—visit us at Open Arms Community Church, 1289 East Main Street, Bradford, PA.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

things to do for teens in bradford pa
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.

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