Est. 1998

The idea for Gum Tree Presbyterian Church began in the summer of 1996 in Tupelo, Mississippi when two families whose desire was to be involved in a conservative, evangelical, reformed, Presbyterian congregation decided together to transform this idea into a reality.  Since then, we have seen God display his goodness in providing: a growing congregation, resources, and a place to worship as a church family.

The group held its first service in a Chic-Fil-A restaurant in Tupelo on August 4, 1996.  Services continued at that location for approximately one year and, during that time, average attendance grew to 20.  The growing size of the new fellowship encouraged the group to pray for God’s guidance in seeking a more suitable place of worship.

By God’s provision, a small house in Tupelo became available.  The group worked together to remodel the building.  The group met at this location for the first time on September 9, 1997.  During the next year the average attendance grew to 32.  On September 6, 1998, the group voted to become a particular church and to receive 8 charter members.  Shortly after the vote, the church met with ARP Synod Outreach North America Director Jim Corbitt and the Mississippi Valley Presbytery’s Outreach North America Committee to discuss becoming an ARP church.  On November 22, 1998 the church voted unanimously to seek membership in the ARP.

Due to space limitations, the newly formed Gum Tree Presbyterian Church began earnestly praying for God’s guidance and provision in finding a more adequate facility for serving Him.  God provided a building to rent near Barnes Crossing mall and the church began meeting there in January 2005.  By God’s grace, several members were added in 2005 and the body continued to grow.

The church once again sought God’s provision of a permanent location to gather for worship.  A former Baptist church on South Thomas Street in Tupelo was being sold at that time.  In God’s goodness, He provided this location for Gum Tree.  The congregation voted unanimously to purchase the building and 3 ½  acres of land on March 30, 2008.  God not only provided the location, he also provided the financing through the Baptist Mission.  He is truly a great and loving God!  The first services were held in the new building on Sunday, May 4, 2008.

God continues to provide visitors to worship with us and adds to our church membership as He chooses.  As he does, He also provides for the body what each member supplies—gifts of: teaching, helps, mercy, administration, hospitality, shepherding, discipleship, etc.  Gum Tree has approximately 100 communing members and 25 non-communing children.  The average Sunday morning attendance is about 95.  The Wednesday night activities attract a group that ranges in size from 40-80 from week to week.

We praise God for His faithful provisions, His mercy, His grace, and His love.  To Him belongs all honor and praise!