Providence Presbyterian Church

Welcome

On March 31, 2012 our beloved Pastor, Gilbert Hitchcock Rowell was called to his eternal life in the presence of our Lord. At only 60 years old he died instantly of a massive heart attack. Many hundreds of people from many States crowded two Church buildings to honor his life. He shepherded Providence with all his heart and mind and left us all well prepared but deeply saddened in his loss. But rejoice he is not lost because we know exactly where he is. If you do not have this confidence about your eternal life would you please contact us and we will explain the plan of salvation that Christ has prepared for you.

Gilbert said to us many times that “it” is all about God. He died on a Saturday afternoon and throughout all the chaos and grief of that evening, through God’s grace, the worship service for the following Sunday morning was performed. The response of the congregation was overwhelming, as they filled in to worship in almost record numbers. Each person knew that to worship God on this Sunday morning was a tribute to all that Gilbert had taught us. The assistance of area ARP Churches began immediately. Rev. Matt Mantooth of Neely’s Creek ARP Church conducted the service. The service was closed that morning with the congregation standing in a circle and praying as they felt led.

Presbyterian Churches are managed and governed by the various boards and committees within the Church. The Deacons manage the operation and outreach of the Church. The Pastor presides over the session (Elders) which are responsible for the spiritual well being of the Church. In the event of the loss of a Pastor, another Pastor is temporarily assigned to fill the position of Session Moderator. This job is filled by Rev Mike Lineberger of Linden ARP Church.

A Search Committee has been formed at Providence to begin the process of finding our next Pastor. In the interim the pulpit is filled each Sunday by a delightful collection of ARP ministers who are available to lead worship at other Churches. These men are called “pulpit supply”. Hearing the word proclaimed by a group of ministers, each bringing their own special gifts and favorite sermons is a very fulfilling time in the life of a Church.

To the potential visitor reading this; there has never been a better time to visit Providence and join us in our work as one of God’s churches. Providence is alive and well and moving forward with all programs and services. We cling to the word of God and believe that “Christ Alone” is sufficient. Please read and consider our theme verse as we seek God’s guidance in the next chapter that He has planned for Providence Church.

Philippians 3:13 Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Ben Reavis, RE

Providence Presbyterian Church

Thank you for visiting our website!

Here you will find information about Providence and its ministry.  We hope you will find what you are looking for, and something to make you think and something to make you smile.

Providence is a warm, loving church family and we want you to know that when you visit with us, you are family too.  And, as you visit us on these pages we want you to feel that you belong here.  So, browse through the various areas of our website and get a feel for who we are at Providence in Gastonia.  You will discover that Providence is much more than just a place -- it's a people.

If you are considering relocating to the Gastonia area, or if you are currently looking for a church home where you can learn, grow and serve Christ, we would love to have you join us in Sunday School and worship.

When you visit Providence, you will discover:

• Ministry to address the spiritual needs of every age
• Preaching/Teaching that is centered in the Word of God
• Biblical worship that is culturally relevant
• A caring congregation that will warmly welcome you

If you have questions, feel free to email us or give us a call.