New to BPC? We welcome you!
Rooted in a rich history with a hope-filled eye on the future, Bedford Presbyterian Church is a gathering place for all who are seeking a deeper connection with the Holy at the heart of all life.
We worship an inclusive and loving God, who calls all persons into relationship, both with God and neighbor. In response to this love, demonstrated in Jesus Christ, we offer ourselves as an open and affirming community.Believing that all persons are children of God, made in God’s image, our doors are open to persons of all ages, races, cultures, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, and socioeconomic statuses.
In this gathering place you will find a community of people from all types of faith backgrounds who believe God is personal and loving; who embrace the teachings of Jesus; who seek a worship experience that inspires all ages, who recognize the worth of every individual; and who endeavor to do God's work in the world by reaching out in love to one another and in the broader community, making a difference in people's lives by sharing and caring. No matter where you come from or where you are on your journey, you are welcome!
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), with denominational offices in Louisville, Kentucky, has approximately 2.1 million members, more than 10,000 congregations and 14,000 ordained and active ministers. Presbyterians trace their history to the 16th century and the Protestant Reformation. Our heritage, and much of what we believe, began with John Calvin (1509-1564), whose writings crystallized much of the Reformed thinking that came before him. For more information on PCUSA beliefs, practices, and history, please visit the PC(USA) web site.
Bedford Presbyterian Church elects and ordains ruling elders (we call our board of elders "the session") to govern the church. We also have a board of deacons elected and ordained by the congregation who serve in a ministry of compassion and service under the direction of session.
Our History - Est. 1749
Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the Bedford Presbyterian Church has ministered in the community for more than 270 years. The Scot Irish Presbyterians who settled Bedford in 1737 first worshipped in private homes or barns or traveled 12 miles to Londonderry. By 1749, the townspeople asked for an organized church and for the opportunity to call a minister. The first Meetinghouse was erected in 1755 on the site of the present Town Hall and was used for worship and town meetings for 75 years.
In 1826, some 56 shareholders formed a legal society called the Bedford Presbyterian Church and Society, its official name until the 1930s. This body prepared the plans and funding for our church building, which was completed in 1832. Over the years, 24 pastors and two associate pastors have served here. The Rev. John Sawyer came to us in 2013 as an associate pastor and now serves as pastor.
Our Vision
Following the example of Jesus Christ and led by the Holy Spirit, with whole-hearted love for God and all our neighbors (Matthew 22:37-39), we are a congregation that is spiritually, mentally, and physically engaged in the life of our community, nation, and world – generously and genuinely united in purpose to help those who seek wholeness in their lives (Matthew 7:7) as we do justice, show kindness, and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8).
Interested in Exploring Membership?
We offer informational meetings throughout the year.
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