Who we are.
Our story
At The Bridge Community Church, you can expect a welcoming community where you will learn and grow in your faith. From our kids' ministry, to worship, to recreation and serving opportunities, everything we do is centered around sharing the love of Jesus. No matter where you are in your faith journey, The Bridge Community Church is excited to walk alongside you and support you.
Established in 1909, our church was originally named Young Harris Church. A center of growth and faith in Athens, we have seen God move here in big ways throughout the years. In 2023, our church was reborn as The Bridge Community Church. We aim to build bridges to all generations in our community and offer local as well as international opportunities to serve others. We plant, nurture, and educate Spirit-filled leaders in relationships with God through Christ-centered prayer, fellowship, discipleship, worship, and service.
Our Preaching Team
Our preaching team is made up of pastors and ministry leaders who share the responsibility of teaching and guiding our church. Each person brings a unique perspective and experience, but together they are united in a common purpose: helping people know Jesus, grow in faith, and live out the gospel in their daily lives.
Reverend Dr. Luis Ortiz
Senior Pastor
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Luis Ortiz serves as Lead Pastor of The Bridge, where he is passionate about helping people grow in their relationship with Jesus and building a church where people from many cultures come together as one community.
Originally from Ohio, Luis came to faith in Christ in 1984 and sensed a call to ministry a few years later. Since then, he has spent decades serving in pastoral leadership, guiding churches in spiritual growth, discipleship, and community impact.
Luis holds a degree in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from Piedmont College, as well as a Master of Divinity in Biblical Studies from Gammon Theological Seminary. He also earned a doctorate in Christian Leadership and Renewal from Regent University.
In addition to his pastoral work, Luis is the author of The Great Divide. He is deeply committed to teaching God’s Word in a way that is both rooted in Scripture and relevant to everyday life.
Reverend Angela Baza
Associate Pastor,
Hispanic Ministry Leader
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Reverend Baza is from Peru. She has lived in Athens for over 20 years, enjoying family and friends. She loves being part of the church because she has an opportunity to join families and friends, sharing and learning from each other, testifying who we are within the body of Christ. Pastor Baza was ordained in December 2023.
Todd H.
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Coming Soon.
Omar C.
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Coming Soon.
Our staff
Jeff Unger
Director of Music
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Jeff Unger is a graduate of Reinhardt University with a degree in vocal performance currently pursuing a masters in music education with a concentration in choral conducting at the University of Georgia, where he sings with the Hodgson Singers and studies voice with Dr. Gregory Broughton. He loves golf, the Atlanta Braves, and UGA football. Jeff is excited to serve the Lord by leading this congregation in worship as Minister of Music.
Willard Smith
Co-Director of Music
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Willard Smith is a member of The Bridge Community Church and continues to serve God with his talents and gifts.
Dr. Chris Fowler
Accompanist
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Dr. Chris Fowler studied music education, emphasizing choral/vocal music education at Georgia State University. Dr. Fowler received a Master of Music from Georgia State University in 2017. Dr. Fowler received his Doctor of Musical Arts at the University of Georgia, class of 2017. Dr. Fowler also worked as the Fine Art Coordinator at Buford City School System from 1992 and retired in the winter of 2024.
Carly Crosby
Youth Director
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Carly Crosby has worked with children since she was about 13 and has always loved working with kids. Carly found her calling when she became an Assistant Teacher for Pre-First and became a full-time mom once they had a beautiful daughter. Along with teaching, Carly Crosby owns Classic City Volleyball Club, where we help young athletes strengthen their skills and love for volleyball. They currently practice in the gym here at The Bridge, which we call home.
Carly Crosby has lived in the Athens area for most of her life and has always loved the environment and community. Carly Crosby stays an active member of the Athens community by joining local adult sports leagues and volunteering in the wheelchair community, primarily to teach sports and outdoor activities to children with disabilities.
Sandee George
Children’s Director
Alex Barlowe
Audio/Video/IT Director
Karen Harpole
Church Administrator
Kim Redmon Crowley
Accounting
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? Here are a few things people often ask about The Bridge.
What is The Bridge like?
The Bridge is a multicultural church where people from many cultures and backgrounds come together to worship, grow in faith, and build meaningful community. Our desire is to create a welcoming environment where everyone can feel at home.
What is a typical Sunday service like?
Our worship service includes music, prayer, and a message centered on Scripture and everyday life. Because we are a multicultural church, you’ll experience a variety of styles and backgrounds coming together in one service.
Do I need to be a member to attend?
Not at all. Whether you’re exploring faith, new to the area, or looking for a church home, you are welcome to join us.
Is The Bridge a good place if I’m new to faith?
Yes. The Bridge is a place where people at all stages of their faith journey are welcome. Whether you’re just beginning or have been walking with Christ for years, you’ll find a community that encourages growth and connection.
Will I be able to understand the service if English isn’t my first language?
Yes. We offer live translation devices that translate the service into more than 120 languages, so everyone can fully participate and feel at home.
Will I fit in if I come from a different culture or background?
Yes. The Bridge is a multicultural church where people from many cultures and backgrounds come together as one community. No matter your background or where you are in your faith journey, you belong here.
What does “multicultural” mean at The Bridge?
At The Bridge, “multicultural” means people from many different cultures and backgrounds worship together as one church community.
You don’t need to speak another language or understand other cultures to be part of The Bridge. Our goal is simply to create a welcoming environment where everyone can grow in faith and feel at home.
We celebrate the diversity of our church while staying united in our faith in Jesus.
What does The Bridge believe?
The Bridge is centered on the message of Jesus Christ and the truth of Scripture. We are committed to helping people grow in their relationship with God through worship, prayer, community, and service.
How can I get involved at The Bridge?
There are many ways to get involved, including small groups, serving opportunities, and ministry teams. Whether you’re new or have been attending for a while, we’d love to help you find your place and get connected.
Is your historic facility available to rent for weddings or events?
We have various rooms and spaces available for rent, as well as a gym. Please reach out to us for more information about renting our facilities.
Is The Bridge Community Church hiring?
Do you think you’d be a great fit for our growing team? If you’re seeking a career in church leadership or ministry, reach out to our office to learn more about employment opportunities.