Welcome! Banner Elk Presbyterian Church dates back to 1893 and is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church USA. Our 200 or so members comprise a congregation of varied backgrounds, experiences and from many different denominations. While our members range from conservative to liberal, we attempt to focus on what unites us and to learn from one another. We have a long history of hard-working, inclusive congregation out in the community helping others. We welcome all to visit, join and serve!
Latest Updates
- Traditional Sunday Worship Services 8:30 AM (through Sept 26) & 11 AM. In-person worship, masks required at 11 AM service, recommended at 8:30, read more.
- Meet our new pastor, Rev. Rachael McConnell
- Find service recordings on our YouTube Channel.
- Meet our Choir Interns, students from Lees-McRae College.
- There is still time to turn in your pledge for 2022 if you have not already done so. Go to Pledge page.
- Read about events & ministries in our monthly church newsletters.
Worship & Education
Our historic stone church building is a busy place for worship services, music, education, preschool, celebrations of life and community gatherings. Our Sunday morning worship is 11 AM. During the summer (June-September), we add a service at 8:30 AM because our attendance jumps as seasonal members return. Sunday School is at 10 AM with classes for both children and adults. Read about Worship, Education and Music.
Helping Hands
Our compassionate church has a long history for being a beacon of light and hope for our entire community. Members support our many missions and ministries with energy and offerings – throughout Avery County and beyond. Find many ways to help your neighbors locally and abroad while enjoying the friendly fellowship of others. Learn more about our ministries.
Location
Banner Elk Presbyterian Church is located at 420 College Drive, on the beautiful campus of Lees-McRae College, surrounding by the Blue Ridge Mountains. Our friendly, small town of Banner Elk is located near Grandfather Mountain, Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain.
History
We have a fascinating story. The Rev. Edgar Tufts arrived in Banner Elk in the late 1800s as a seminary student intern. Upon his graduation, he returned to begin his lifelong work of service to the people of this remote area. In addition to rallying the town to help build our stone church in 1914, he was responsible for founding Lees-McRae College, Grandfather Home for Children and Cannon Memorial Hospital. He was also instrumental in the formation of Avery County, establishing a bank, and even bringing electricity to town. Read our Church History.
Membership
We receive new members by profession of faith with baptism, reaffirmation of faith, or transfer of membership from another congregation. If you are a seasonal resident, you might want to consider becoming an Affiliate Member, keeping your primary membership in the church where you spend most of the year. Read more: About Us
Social Media
Follow us for updates and inspiration: Facebook | YouTube
Got a Question?
Click here to find our staff email directory, office hours and more.