History
Community Bible Church, a church planting ministry of BCM International, was begun by Walt and Barb Brannen on July 6, 1986, as a Bible study in the barn at Jack ’N Jill Campground in Long Pond. The owners of the campground at that time were John and June Garrett who graciously provided the facility free of charge. The Bible study, which was initially called The Long Pond Bible Study, expanded into a morning service and children’s church. At that time, Wednesday Bible studies were held for children and adults in homes.
In March of 1988, the church moved into a small church building on Locust Ridge Road in Pocono Lake and the ministry was given the current name, Community Bible Church of Pocono Lake. CBC remained at this location until 1997. By that time, the congregation had grown to approximately 45-50 people.
The present facility was purchased in September, 1995 and extensive renovations were made. In January of 1997, the first service was held at the present location.
Due to ill health and other mission responsibilities, in July 1997, Pastor Walt resigned as pastor and turned the work over to Rev. Robert Brown. The church became independent of BCM International at that time.
Pastor Brown served the church until March 2003,when the work was unexpectedly handed back to Pastor Brannen. At that time the church resumed mission status under BCM International.
As of January 1, 2005, Community Bible Church became a Village Missions’ Church and the Brannens became Village Missions’ missionaries. The change from BCM International to Village Missions was made to enable the church to become part of a mission that exists for the purpose of keeping country churches alive.
Due to the transient nature of our community, the church has seen many people come and go as they move in and out of the area. This has significantly impacted its growth and at present the church is attempting to reestablish. Only God knows what has been done in lives over the years as a result of the teaching of the Word through the various ministries. Some folk who have gone out from CBC are in Christian ministries elsewhere, including one who accepted Christ as his Saviour while at CBC and served as a pastor in New York for a number of years.
If you would like information on the church or Village Missions, please contact us or visit www.village-missions.org.
