OUR STORY
A Congregation Gathered by Grace
Sandy Plains ARP Church has been a spiritual home for families in the NC/SC Foothills for generations. Nestled among the rolling hills of Polk County, North Carolina, our congregation gathers each Lord’s Day to hear the preaching of God’s Word, to sing His praises, and to encourage one another in the faith once delivered to the saints.
We are not a perfect church, but we are a forgiven one — bound together by the grace of Jesus Christ and committed to growing in holiness as a covenant community. Whether your family has worshipped here for five generations or you’re walking through our doors for the very first time, you will find a warm welcome and a people who genuinely love one another.
OUR CONVICTIONS
Rooted in Reformed Truth
The historic Reformed faith shapes everything we do — our worship, our witness, and our life together.
Scripture Alone
The Holy Scriptures are the inspired, inerrant, and sufficient Word of God, our only infallible rule for faith and life.
Christ Alone
Sinners are reconciled to God through Jesus Christ alone, our only mediator and redeemer.
Faith Alone
We are justified by grace alone through faith alone, receiving and resting upon Christ for salvation.
Grace Alone
Salvation is the free gift of God’s grace, not the result of our works, merit, or worthiness.
To God Alone be the Glory
Because salvation is of the Lord from beginning to end, all glory belongs to God alone.
OUR HERITAGE
Associate Reformed Presbyterian
As part of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, we belong to one of America’s oldest Presbyterian denominations — tracing our roots to the Scottish Covenanters and Seceders who brought their deep commitment to Reformed worship and Presbyterian governance to the Carolina backcountry. That same commitment shapes our life together today.
Our Session of teaching and ruling elders governs the congregation according to the principles of Presbyterian church polity, accountable to the First Presbytery and the General Synod of the ARP Church. We believe that Christ alone is the Head of the Church, and that all authority in the church flows from His Word.
PASTORAL LEADERSHIP
Meet Our Pastor
Rev. Greg Hamer
Senior Pastor
Pastor Hamer has shepherded Sandy Plains ARP Church for over 25 years. A graduate of Erskine Theological Seminary, his ministry is marked by faithful expository preaching, patient pastoral care, and a deep love for the people God has entrusted to him. He is committed to verse-by-verse teaching that equips believers to live out the gospel in every area of life.
His warm, approachable manner makes everyone feel at home — whether you’ve been a member your whole life or are visiting for the first time.
VISITING?
What to Expect on Sunday
Our worship is reverent, joyful, and rooted in Scripture. We sing a blend of psalms and hymns, hear the Word preached faithfully, observe the sacraments, and pray together. You don’t need to dress up or know all the answers — just come as you are. You’ll find friendly faces, a warm handshake, and a community that is glad you’re here.
Sunday School — 10:00 AM
Worship — 11:00 AM
Thursday Bible Study — 6:00 PM
Come Worship With Us
We would love to welcome you and your family this Lord’s Day.