The best way to imagine a typical Faithbridge gathering is to picture a Thanksgiving meal. Multiple generations gather together, each person bringing something to the meal. Teenagers huddle together. Older elementary kids play together, with the younger elementary ones trying to keep up. Toddlers squirm in the arms of their parents or parents-in-faith. The dress is varied. Some are in coat and tie; others wear jeans and a t-shirt. No one notices the difference. Conversation flows freely, so, too, does coffee, cookies, and other snacks. In time, everyone will be drawn to the Table, a Table, of course, set by our Lord and open to all, with chairs always ready to be added.
In early 1998, Grace Presbytery saw tremendous growth happening north of 121 in Frisco and, to address this growth, began plans to start a church in the area. A task group was commissioned and charged with acquiring land and shaping a vision for what this new church might be. The task force worked diligently, securing funding and looking at many land tracks around Frisco. In early 1999, funding was secured and seven acres of land was purchased at the corner of Hillcrest and College.
A search for an organizing pastor was underway. In the summer of 1999, the Rev. Philip Lotspeich was called to start the new church. In August of 1999, Rev. Lotspeich and his family moved to Frisco and began gathering the core group that would continue the work of the task group in forming this new church.
The core group settled on a name and basic vision for what the church would initially be. In December 1999, informal Advent worship services were held at Christie Elementary School in Frisco, with 20-30 in attendance.
Regular worship began January 9, 2000 at Skaggs Elementary School in Plano (at that time there were no Frisco schools available for use). Worship continued at Skaggs until a Frisco school, Shawnee Trail Elementary, was opened in the fall of 2000. Worship continued at Shawnee Trail from 2000-2004.
On September 23, 2001, Faithbridge became an official PC(USA) congregation. This was a wonderful accomplishment for the dedicated group who had worked to tirelessly to build Faithbridge.
On Palm Sunday 2003, Rev. Lotspeich was called to be the first Installed Pastor of Faithbridge. In 2005, the current building was completed, with Easter of 2005 being the first service in the new building – a joyous occasion for all!
In January 2008, Rev. Lotspeich resigned to accept a position with the denomination in Lousiville, Kentucky. In transition, Rev. Amy Hunt served as Interim Pastor. On July 1, 2010, Rev. Dr. Chris Carson began serving as Pastor, moving from Georgia to join Faithbridge’s next steps, wherever God intends those steps to be.
Worship is a vital activity for any community of faith. It is the heart of all we do and are as disciples. This is no less true for those who gather at Faithbridge.
At Faithbridge, we do not believe that there is one way to worship God. Instead, we are convinced that God loves all forms of worship and all styles of music. Because of this, worship at Faithbridge is blended, mixing together traditional and contemporary elements to the glory of God.
Currently, one service is offered. This service is at 10:30 a.m., with Communion offered the first Sunday of every month. Worship takes place in the sanctuary and is led by a Praise Team, Faithbridge members, and the Pastor, though all participate. Audio of worship and sermons can be found on line. We hope you will check them out and maybe even join us.
