About

A Brief History

The Providence Baptist Church began in 2004. A group of believers began a Bible study at the old Holiday Inn in Newport. After much prayer and seeing God's blessing, it was agreed to start a church with Scott Gorrell as our pastor. Providence was founded with the purpose of being "a place to belong" for all people to worship God.

Today, the Providence Baptist Church sits on a beautiful campus, south of Newport, in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. We've come a long way over the years, but our purpose is still the same. We're blessed to have people of all backgrounds and ages attend our church. Though each member has their own unique story, we are united in Christ, and in a genuine love and care for one another.

Mission

The Bible is quite a large book with many commands and instructions for us. Thankfully, God made his priorities for us abundantly clear with a simple teaching that is found both in the Old Testament and New Testament. That teaching is summed up in 4 words- "Love God, Love Others". This helps us establish our mission as a church and as Christians.

The order does matter, as we can't love others as we ought to, unless we know, understand, and love God most. Our love for God motivates us to love others, as God loves them. God's love gives us the ability to love in a supernatural way that sacrifices for others and put their needs first. These priorities impact all areas of our lives and the decisions we make as individuals and as a church.

What to Expect

There are a few things you should expect to find when you walk through our doors-

  • Authenticity- We are normal people that have joined together to worship God and share in our lives together. We don't have superstars, but we have genuine people who care for one another. Just as God accepts us where we are, we welcome all who want to join us.

  • Bible Teaching & Preaching- We strive to be thoroughly Biblical in our approach to ministry. We take the Bible seriously and literally, and our teaching and preaching reflects that. Our lessons and sermons are not based on our opinions, but the clear teaching of the Bible.

  • Comfortable Atmosphere- Our church doesn't have a dress code, or a long list of do's and don'ts. Some of our people dress up in their Sunday best, and some dress in a more casual manner. We want you to wear what makes you comfortable and what prepares you to worship God and enjoy fellowship with others.

  • Fellowship- We're not a large church, nor are we a small church. You'll find people of all ages and backgrounds at our church. We're sure you'll find people with whom you can develop close friendships, and you'll find that we're all united in our mission of loving God and loving others.

  • Traditional Worship- Most of our singing is from a hymnbook with piano and organ accompanying. We have nothing against newer songs and styles, we even sing some newer songs, but the traditional style is what our people enjoy. We love the familiarity and scriptural depth of the old hymns. We hope you will too.