Since the very first prayer meeting, the people of Providence Church have believed that Christians grow when they have a Biblical foundation that is encouraged by Christian relationships. The story of Providence displays God’s work through His Word and His people in Northeast Ohio.

•  Seeing a need . . .
During the summer of 1992, current Providence members Tom and JoAnne Petersburg saw the need for a Bible-centered church on the west side of Cleveland. They discussed this opportunity at their home with a group of twelve couples, including Jim Bzdafka, a pastor in Brecksville, Ohio, who had recently left his successful business career to complete his Masters in Divinity at Columbia Biblical Seminary. After praying and evaluating, this small group of families began meeting for worship on a regular basis.

•  Starting off . . .
As the core group continued to meet, they joined their new small church with the Evangelical Free Church of America. They chose the name Providence Church to highlight God’s guiding, sovereign hand over this local body and His larger kingdom. 

•  Stepping out . . .
Providence launched its first public worship service in February 1993 at a day care facility in Westlake with Jim Bzdafka as the full-time senior pastor. Two years later as growth continued, Sunday worship was moved to Parkside Middle School in Westlake.

•  Building up . . .
Providence saw God’s mighty hand at work in 2002 as He made a way for the purchase of land and construction of a church building on Detroit Road in Avon. The church first worshipped at its new home, and current location, on December 14, 2003.

•  Dreaming big . . .
As its facilities, church family, and ministries continue to grow, Providence remains true to its commitment to Biblical teaching and encouraging relationships, and will continue to serve the community and equip God’s people to build Christ’s Kingdom on Cleveland’s west side.