OUR PASTOR
Pastor Tom Goodell has been a United Methodist pastor since 1989. During this time, he has served in small, rural and large, urban congregations. He has served in Cropsey and Strawn, Normal, Maryville, as campus minister at Eastern Illinois University, Washington, Pontiac and Vandalia.
Pastor Tom is rooted in John Wesley’s understanding of the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and a passionate response to the needs of the communities in which we live. He believes our faith is lived out through Jesus’ words in Matthew 25: 39-41. “When you cared for the needs of others, you have met me.”
He is the recipient of the Harry Denman Award for Evangelism, in our Illinois Great Rivers Conference; the Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary Alumni Award, and numerous awards for citizenship in the communities where he has served.
He has been married to his lovely wife, Sherry Goodell, since 1986 and is the father of two sons; Andrew and Nick, and one daughter-in-law Kyra. Tom and Sherry share their home in Washington, IL with their rescue kitty, Olivia Grace.
OUR HOME
We meet every Sunday morning at Central Primary School in Washington - 1400 Newcastle Drive.
Sunday School for Adults, Young Adults, Youth, and Children starts at 9:00am. Join us for coffee and a breakfast treat at 9:30am. Worship begins at 10:00am and lasts about an hour.
SERMONS
A link to our livestream will be posted to our Facebook Group Sunday mornings by 10am.
View or listen to previous sermons:
Video: Facebook
Audio: Apple Podcasts / Spotify
OUR VISION
We are a community of believers centered on Jesus, affirming and welcoming to all, committed to dialogue and questioning, focused on service to others, and driven by love.
At The Bridge we strive to be a church of "ands..."
OUR VALUES
JESUS
Jesus is the foundation of all we do. Everyone we encounter should feel the love of Jesus through their interaction with us.
WELCOME
We believe everyone can experience the peace and joy of Jesus. We support opportunities for everyone to lead and ensure all voices are heard and respected.
FAITH
We approach the Bible with open minds, recognizing the changing context and implications of its timeless lessons.
INCLUSIVE
We foster an environment of acceptance, respect, and inclusivity for all people regardless of their age, race, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
SERVICE
We are committed to service to others. We actively seek opportunities to support or communities, especially those marginalized and overlooked by society.
The Bridge is affiliated with the United Methodist denomination. You can learn more about what we believe here.
BUILDING THE BRIDGE
Members of The Bridge share their stories of what they are looking for in a church home.
