Greybull First Presbyterian Church Splits from Presbytery, Renames Itself Greybull Community Church (Greybull, Wyoming)

The Greybull First Presbyterian Church has taken a significant step toward a new future by petitioning to leave the Presbytery of Wyoming and rebranding as Greybull Community Church. This decision marks a departure from its previous denominational ties and reflects a broader effort to revitalize the congregation and its community presence.

The Presbyterian Church U.S.A., the largest Presbyterian denomination in the United States, approved the church’s request to leave the denomination on October 3. This move allows the congregation to operate independently, with the goal of establishing a more vibrant and active church in Greybull. The transition was formally recognized, setting the stage for a new chapter in the church’s history.

Greybull Community Church held its first service on October 4, drawing nearly 50 attendees. This number represents a marked increase from previous weeks, when attendance often numbered fewer than 10. The new church has adjusted its Sunday service time to 9 a.m. and continues to offer traditional hymns while incorporating a mix of contemporary worship elements.

The church’s mission statement emphasizes a commitment to “bold Biblical preaching, unconditional loving, enthusiastic worshiping and intentional community.” This vision is supported by a collaborative effort between Greybull Community Church and Basin’s First Baptist Church, which has pledged to provide leadership and shared resources during a two- to five-year development period.

Associate pastor Brett Suiter of First Baptist Church explained that the decision to leave the denomination was driven by the church’s low attendance and declining numbers. “They asked us to come alongside them,” Suiter said. “We partnered with them and would love to replant a gospel-centered church there that is going to serve the Greybull community.”

Lead pastor Aaron Gesch of First Baptist Church will preach at both Greybull Community Church and First Baptist Church, with Suiter and First Baptist elders also supporting the services. Gesch noted that the goal is for Greybull Community Church to eventually become an autonomous congregation with its own pastor, while continuing to develop children’s, youth, fellowship, and community ministries as participation grows.

The Greybull First Presbyterian Church had been without a lead pastor since Rev. Becky Anderson left in 2017. During this period, a partnership with Shell Community Church helped fill the leadership gap, with various volunteers, including laymen, pastors from other towns, elders, and members of First Baptist Church, taking turns preaching in both locations. This arrangement, which lasted over three years, provided continuity and support for the Greybull congregation.

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