About Us.
Our Mission
ROOTED. REACHING. RESPONDING.
West New Bern Presbyterian Church is firmly rooted in the belief that it exists to invite people to enter a relationship with Jesus Christ, for people to reach their potential by growing in their faith, and to respond to the Holy Spirit by going out into the world to share that faith.
What We Believe
At West New Bern Presbyterian Church, our faith is firmly rooted in the teachings of scripture and the grace of Jesus Christ. We believe in one sovereign God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—who calls us into a loving relationship and guides us through His Word. As a Presbyterian congregation, we affirm the authority of the Bible as God’s truth, shaping our faith and daily lives.
We believe that salvation comes through God’s grace alone, not by our own works, and that we are called to live out this grace by loving and serving others. Prayer is central to our faith, as we seek God’s wisdom, strength, and guidance in all things. As followers of Christ, we strive to be a welcoming and compassionate community, embracing all who seek to grow in faith and share in God’s mission of love, justice, and reconciliation in the world.
Our History
Near the end of World War II, the Home Missions Department of the Albemarle Presbytery surveyed the western portion of the city of New Bern noticing definite signs of population growth. The Presbytery purchased several lots, beginning at the corner of Chattawka Lane and Lucerne Way. This became the first Presbyterian church west of the Five Points area in downtown New Bern.
Development of our church continued under the guidance of the First Presbyterian Church of New Bern. The congregation of West New Bern Presbyterian was officially established on May 8, 1948, with 28 charter members. This year (2023) West New Bern Presbyterian looks forward to celebrating its 75th anniversary.
West New Bern PC continued to grow throughout the years. There has been plenty of heroism, faith, and sacrifices demonstrated by our congregation. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, we had a thriving preschool and were involved with the Interfaith Refugee Ministry, the nonprofit, Religious Community Services, and Merci Clinic, as well as other community groups. We established a Little Free Library as a means of reaching out to our neighbors in the community and with the assistance of First Presbyterian of New Bern, we expanded by adding an ESL program at our location.
We have remained a smaller church within a residential area of New Bern and have enthusiastically and graciously welcomed all who wish to share the Love of God.
Our Leadership
Church Session
Class of 2025
Tonya Cedars, Chair, Administration Committee
Htee Ku
Class of 2026
Jeff Chittick Chair, Property Committee
Beth Doran, Chair, Worship Committee
Class of 2027
Anita Lea, Clerk of Session
Herb Lea, Treasurer, Chair, Finance Committee