Welcome to the Open Arms Centre – A Place of Faith, Fellowship, and God’s Miraculous Provision.
In October 1976, Pastors Clara and Billy McClay began a journey of praise and worship in their home in Glenvarna Drive. What started as a small gathering with a deep vision to foster restoration and relationship with God quickly grew as more people were drawn to the Spirit of the Lord. So many attended the house that often furniture had to be moved outside to make space for them. As the need for a larger space grew, the church moved to the Moss Road, Orange Hall, where the church continued worshipping and growing together.
God had much bigger plans for the church, so he gave Pastors Billy and Clara the vision to purchase the Linden Lea site – a location previously home to the Pink Barn Restaurant and the Linden Lea Garden Centre. With faith and dedication, Billy and Bobby Crawford spent 12 months restoring the building for the Church. On the day of its opening, a prophetic word was spoken that this hall would be known as the Minor Hall, which leads us to the Open Arms.
God gave Pastor Billy the vision for the Open Arms Centre. God spoke clearly, to himsaying, “You Build it, and I will fill it and provide everything for it.” True to His word, the Open Arms Centre was constructed, and fully paid for, a testament to God’s faithfulness with his promises.
The journey of faith and trust has been long, but God has always remained true to His promises. The church has experienced countless miracles, and we continue to witness His work in our community today.
The Open Arms Centre Today
The Open Arms Centre stands as a place of restoration, connection, and faith in God’s provision. Beyond our worship services, we offer ministries that support all generations – from youth groups to outreach programs and fellowship gatherings. Recently, we completed the next phase of our growth with the opening of a new café – a space for people to connect, share, and experience God’s love in a welcoming environment.
We believe that the church is more than just a building – it’s a community of people who are growing in relationship with God and one another. Our mission remains rooted in the vision set forth in 1976: to restore and strengthen the bonds between God and His people, and to make space for everyone to encounter His love.
Join Us on the Journey
We invite you to come as you are and be part of the Open Arms Centre family. There is always a seat for you here. Together, we’ll continue to walk in faith, trusting in God’s promises and sharing His love with the world.
Blessings,
In the name of Jesus Christ,
Pastor Clara and the Leadership Team