Our History

Glenvarna Christian Centre has provided a wide range of social, youth and pastoral services to the communities of the greater Newtownabbey area for over thirty years.

Beginning as a house fellowship in 1976, we moved to the old Orange Hall in Carnmoney in 1978 and, after ten years, moved to our current site at 34A Ballynure Road in Newtownabbey. People from all communities have always come together to share and to care. GCC's ethos has always been to support and assist WHOSOEVER, in whatever way possible.

By 2005 it became clear that the facilities at Glenvarna Christian Centre were now insufficient to meet the needs of the local community. A new vision was birthed to build a large, multi-functional facility on the four and a half acre Ballynure Road site - the 'Open Arms Centre'.

Building commenced on the Open Arms Centre - arms open to all - regardless of religion, age, background, or culture.

Opened in March 2009, the Open Arms Centre is the venue for various projects. Aside from Church meetings on Sundays and midweek, the Centre is used by several Youth Groups and also by local Clubs including Mossley Bowling Club and Glandore Dog Training Club. On Saturdays it is a popular gathering place for our Indoor / Outdoor Car Boot Sale, when many come to find a bargain or sell goods and then enjoy a chat and a good Ulster fry!

Read more about the Open Arms Centre project here.