The Bridge Church - Centerville Campus

The Bridge Church is a Christ-centered congregation with locations in Ottumwa, Centerville, Fairfield, and Oskaloosa, Iowa. Pastor Marty Schmidt founded the church in 2007 to create a welcoming community for those who feel disconnected from traditional churches. Services emphasize Bible-based teaching, passionate worship, and practical community engagement. Visitors often note the welcoming atmosphere and opportunities to get involved in ministry teams.

The Bridge Church was founded in 2007 by Pastor Marty Schmidt with a vision to create a church that feels like home for those who have given up on traditional congregations. The church now has four locations across southeast Iowa: Ottumwa, Centerville, Fairfield, and Oskaloosa. Each campus offers Sunday services at multiple times, with a focus on creating a comfortable, inclusive environment where attendees can grow in their faith and connect with others.

Services emphasize Bible-centered preaching and worship music that many visitors describe as 'incredible' and 'life-giving.' The church encourages regular attendance to build a rhythm of worship and community. Reviewers frequently highlight the welcoming atmosphere, noting that visitors feel accepted 'as they are' without pressure to dress formally.

The church offers a range of ministries including children's programs, prayer care, and financial assistance resources. Care services provide support for those facing personal, marital, or financial challenges. Members are invited to join 'Dream Teams' for service opportunities, and events like parenting workshops and baptism celebrations are regularly scheduled.

For newcomers, the church emphasizes accessibility and flexibility. Services are available online at 9:30 AM, and in-person attendance is encouraged with multiple service times at each location. The Bridge Church's mission is to help people 'know God, find freedom, discover purpose, and make a difference' through both spiritual growth and practical community involvement.

The Bridge Church - Centerville Campus offers a welcoming, Bible-centered environment designed to feel accessible and inclusive. First-time visitors may notice the emphasis on community connection through multiple service times, online availability, and ministries like prayer care and children’s programs. The church’s mission to foster spiritual growth alongside practical support reflects in its diverse offerings, from worship services to community events like the 'At the Movies' series.

Pros

• Welcoming atmosphere with multiple service times and online options for flexibility
• Bible-based teaching paired with 'life-giving' worship music
• Comprehensive ministries including children’s programs, financial assistance, and prayer care
• Community-focused initiatives like Celebrate Recovery meetings and outreach events
• Accessible campus locations with clear service schedules and online resources
• Emphasis on practical community engagement and spiritual growth

Cons

• Neighboring residents have reported noise and vibration concerns from evening and Sunday services