OUr Story

Founding & First Steps

1965-1976

Preparation began in 1965 with the purchase of our church property. Through the dedication of members selling church bonds and financial support from the Orange Presbytery, plans for a new multi-purpose facility quickly took shape.

On June 4, 1972, the congregation walked from their temporary worship space directly to the building site. Reverend Angus McGregor, Bob Kile, and Mick McGuire cut the ribbon, officially dedicating the ground for Community in Christ, Presbyterian. By 1976, our commitment to local families was already growing, as a once-a-week Mother's Morning Out program successfully expanded into a preschool program in the Fall of 1984

A Season of Growth and Music

1977–1994

Following Reverend McGregor’s departure in 1977 and a brief interim by Reverend Joe Flora, Reverend James Rissmiller was installed as pastor on August 20, 1978. As a vibrant family man, Reverend Rissmiller brought an energy that attracted many young families moving into the growing southeast community.



During this era, the church enriched its music ministry by installing a beautiful WICKS pipe organ and purchasing a 1926 Model A Steinway Grand Piano—both of which have been meticulously restored and continue to enhance our Sunday worship today. To accommodate our booming educational programs, the church broke ground on a major new building addition on March 6, 1994.

Transitions and New Traditions

2001–2003

After 23 years of devoted service, Reverend Rissmiller accepted a call to Salem Presbytery in 2001. Founding pastor Reverend Angus McGregor returned as interim to guide us through the transition.

On March 18, 2003, Reverend Dr. Frederick A. Beck was called as our new pastor. An educator and accomplished musician, Pastor Fred infused his passion for teaching into both the congregation and the preschool program. That same year, the church built a peaceful Columbarium and Memorial Plaque on the property, creating a sacred space of remembrance for our community.

MILESTONES & MOVING FORWARD

2011-2014

On December 4, 2011, generations of members gathered from near and far to celebrate our 40th Anniversary. This milestone also marked the beginning of our outdoor worship area, a space that we continue to update and enjoy today.

Pastor Fred announced his retirement in mid-2012, prompting a joyful season of gratitude for his ministry. Following a meaningful interim period led by Reverend Dr. Thom Burleson, Reverend Rob Jackson was called as our new pastor in the summer of 2014, leading us into a new chapter of community-focused faith for almost five years.

RESILIENCE, COMMUNITY & 50TH ANNIVERSARY

2019-Present

In November 2019, a new interim pastor, Reverend Bryan McFarland, arrived to guide our congregation through a pivotal era. When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional gatherings, our outdoor worship area became a saving grace—allowing our congregation to safely gather, worship, and support one another in the open air.

Amid these challenges, our community continued to honor those who built it; on December 5, 2021, we proudly dedicated the children's wing to Kevin Cockrell, celebrating her lasting impact on our youngest members. The following year, on January 9, 2022, Reverend McFarland became our installed pastor as we joyfully marked our 50th Anniversary with a massive outdoor community festival, celebrating five decades of God's amazing grace with our neighbors. Pastor Bryan retired on December 21, 2025, after completing six years of faithful service, grace-filled guidance, and music ministry.

Looking to the future

Today, Community in Christ, Presbyterian remains dedicated to meeting modern needs in a contemporary, welcoming way. We are constantly growing, changing, and allowing the kingdom of God to shape our lives.

Whether through our vibrant Sunday services, Christian education, Presbyterian Youth Fellowship (PYF), the CIC,P Preschool, or our local and global missions, we strive to spread the good news of God's unconditional love.

No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, we encourage and welcome you to come join our community in Christ