The Unofficial Guide To City Church Eastside Atlanta: 7 Surprising Facts About The PCA Church In Virginia Highlands

City Church Eastside Atlanta remains one of the most dynamic and community-focused Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) congregations in the city, actively shaping the spiritual and social landscape of the Eastside neighborhood. As of December 22, 2025, the church continues its mission of "growing people to love Atlanta through the power of Jesus," anchoring its worship services in a location steeped in local history while expanding its footprint through extensive community engagement. This deep-dive explores the most current information, leadership, doctrine, and unique programs that define this influential Atlanta church, answering the curiosity of both newcomers and long-time residents. Founded in 2008, City Church Eastside has quickly established itself as a vibrant, welcoming, and theologically robust community, distinctively blending a commitment to Reformed doctrine with a relaxed, modern approach to city life. Its strategic location and intentional focus on local renewal have made it a key institution in the Virginia Highlands and surrounding Eastside areas.

Meet the Leadership: The Pastors and Staff Driving the Vision

The effectiveness of any church is often a reflection of its leadership, and City Church Eastside boasts a dedicated team committed to its vision of city renewal and discipleship. The current staff includes a blend of seasoned pastors and specialized directors, ensuring all facets of the congregation, from children's ministry to spiritual formation, are well-shepherded.

Key Leadership Profiles

• Scott Armstrong, Lead Pastor: As the primary teaching and visionary leader, Scott Armstrong guides the church's overall direction. He holds a B.S. in Political Science from Furman University and a Masters in Christian Thought from Reformed Theological Seminary, bringing a deep theological foundation to his role. He is instrumental in casting the vision of "loving the great city of Atlanta" through the gospel.
• David Entrekin, Pastor of Families & Discipleship: Focusing on the spiritual growth of individuals and families, Pastor Entrekin plays a vital role in integrating members into the life of the church and strengthening the family unit.
• Mike Boland, Pastor of Spiritual Formation: Pastor Boland’s ministry centers on the internal life and spiritual practices of the congregation, helping members mature in their faith.
• Dan DeCriscio, Executive Pastor: Dan handles the operational and administrative aspects of the church, having received a Master of Divinity from Metro Atlanta Seminary in 2019.
• Alyssa Catalano, City Kids Director: She oversees the children’s ministry, ensuring a caring, fun, and gospel-centered environment for the youngest members of the church.

This multi-faceted team illustrates the church's commitment to holistic ministry, addressing not only Sunday worship but also the practical needs of families, spiritual development, and efficient operations.

The Historic Home: Why the Hilan Theater is More Than Just a Building

One of the most unique and fascinating aspects of City Church Eastside is its worship location. The church does not own a traditional, centuries-old sanctuary; instead, it holds its Sunday services in a venue rich with local history, which perfectly aligns with its mission to be embedded in the community. The church's worship services are held at the historic Hilan Theater in the Virginia Highlands neighborhood. This choice of location is highly intentional, placing the congregation directly in the heart of the Eastside's cultural and commercial life.

The Hilan Theater's Significance

The Hilan Theater is a landmark in the Virginia Highlands, a neighborhood known for its historic homes, vibrant street life, and local businesses. By meeting in a repurposed commercial building, City Church Eastside signals its commitment to engaging with the secular city rather than retreating from it. This setting contributes to the church's "friendly, relaxed, and welcoming" atmosphere, often noted by visitors.

While the worship services take place at the Hilan Theater, the church’s offices and mailing address are located nearby on North Highland Ave NE, further cementing its presence in the community.

7 Core Pillars of Ministry and Community Engagement

City Church Eastside’s commitment to the renewal of Atlanta is demonstrated through its robust and diverse range of ministries. These programs extend far beyond the Sunday service, creating multiple avenues for community members to connect, serve, and grow. These initiatives are the lifeblood of the church’s local impact.

1. Deep Discipleship Through DNA Groups

The church emphasizes DNA Groups, which stands for Discipleship, Nurture, and Accountability. These are small, intimate gatherings designed for deeper spiritual growth and mutual support, moving beyond the larger Community Groups to foster genuine, transformative relationships.

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2. Extensive Community Group Network

The backbone of the church's fellowship is its network of Community Groups. These groups meet throughout the week in various homes across the Eastside, providing a context for Bible study, prayer, and shared life. They are the primary way the church creates a sense of "family on mission."

3. Focused Youth and Children's Ministry

Under the direction of Alyssa Catalano, City Kids offers a gospel-centered curriculum for children. Simultaneously, City Youth provides a dedicated space for middle school students, with programming that includes activities and training designed to equip the next generation. The youth groups often "break for the summer" and resume activities, such as those scheduled to start in August 2025.

4. Strategic Local Outreach (CCE Serves)

Through its CCE Serves initiative, the church actively supports various non-profit organizations throughout Atlanta. A key partner is Restore Life, a non-profit focused on holistic restoration, demonstrating the church's commitment to practical community service and social justice.

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5. Support for Specific Needs: Sarah’s Circle

The church hosts specialized support groups, such as Sarah's Circle Support Group, which was recently listed on their event calendar for January 2025. This shows an intentional effort to provide care for specific needs within the congregation and wider community.

6. Commitment to Church Planting

City Church Eastside has a history of being a "church planting church." It was planted by Perimeter Church and has, in turn, committed to raising up new leaders and supporting the launch of new congregations. This commitment to expansion is part of its vision to renew the city of Atlanta.

7. Theological Foundation: A Reformed PCA Church

The church is officially part of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) denomination, which means it adheres to Reformed doctrine and the Westminster Confession of Faith. This theological framework provides a solid, historical, and biblical grounding for its teaching and ministry, ensuring consistency in its proclamation of the good news of Jesus Christ.

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The Latest Happenings and Future Outlook (2025)

City Church Eastside is not resting on its past success; it is constantly planning for the future, as evidenced by its recent and upcoming events. The church’s operational calendar provides a clear look at its focus on both internal discipleship and external outreach.

Upcoming events, such as a Leadership Training session in January 2025 and a Newcomers Lunch in February 2025, highlight the church’s dual focus on developing existing members and integrating new ones. Furthermore, the annual Souper Bowl Chili event, also scheduled for February 2025, showcases the church’s tradition of fellowship and community gathering.

The ongoing sermon series, which includes themes like the "Candle of Joy" and "Candle of Peace" from their Advent season, demonstrates a commitment to expository and thematic preaching, often referencing scripture passages like Isaiah 25:6-9, John 2:1-11, and Isaiah 9:2-7. This consistent teaching is central to the church’s identity as a Reformed body.

For individuals new to the Eastside or seeking a church with a strong theological backbone and a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere, City Church Eastside offers a compelling blend. Its physical home in the historic Hilan Theater, its commitment to the PCA's Reformed tradition, and the active leadership of Pastor Scott Armstrong and his team all contribute to its continued influence in the renewal of Atlanta.

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