Family Church of Chautauqua County (originally Bible Christian Fellowship) was started by the Reverends David and Connie Alessi in 1977 as a home based Bible study group. Recognizing the area's need for a full Gospel church, Bible Christian Fellowship was founded as an independent, nondenominational full Gospel church later that year. While continuing to meet at various locations in Dunkirk, the current building, a former factory, was acquired and renovated by the members. In December of 1983, the building was ready and the family of Bible Christian Fellowship moved into their new home.   In 1987, the staff was expanded to include the Rev. Michael J. Lokietek as Associate Pastor. A 1987 graduate of Rhema Bible Training Center, Pastor Michael served faithfully for 7 & 1/2 years. In January of 1995, the founding Pastors, David and Connie Alessi, entered into full time evangelistic ministry and the Rev. Michael Lokietek became the new Senior Pastor. Since this time, Family Church has continually renovated and updated the facilities in order to encompass the expanding needs. This includes the foyer, platform, relocation of the Nursery and remodeling the office/lounge area. The most involved project was the major renovation of the basement into “The City”, a place for Children’s Church, Junior and Senior Youth Groups to meet. Under Pastor Michael's vision and leadership additional ministries and services were added to accommodate the growing church membership as well as address the expansion of community outreach.  In response, the pastoral staff was enlarged in 1998 to include the Rev. Raymond D. Wilson as Associate Pastor.  Pastor Ray, also a 1987 graduate from Rhema Bible Training Center, has contributed significantly to the fulfillment of God's vision for Family Church and to the smooth operation of the church. Family Church continues to grow and serve the people of Chautauqua County.  In addition to it's two regular Sunday morning services, a Wednesday night prayer service is offered.  In order to better serve the members of Family Church, and to create a presence in the southern area of the county, Family Church added our first satellite service in Jamestown NY in September 2003.  A Family Church South office was established in downtown Jamestown, as well, to meet the members needs. Another way to serve its people is to offer growth opportunities within the church. Various learning opportunities, including New Believers and Membership classes are scheduled at various times throughout the year.  Nursery services, Children's Church, Jr. Youth and Sr. Youth Groups also meet at various times throughout the week. On September 5, 2004, Bible Christian Fellowship's name was changed to Family Church of Chautauqua County.  Back to Homepage