CBF History

The Beginning (1925)

The Christian Believers Fellowship traces its origins to 1925 in Dover, New Hampshire, when four Greek immigrant families — the Colokathis, Kyreages, Maglaras, and Polychronis families — departed from the Greek Orthodox Church. Their decision stemmed from concerns that the church had deviated from biblical teachings.

These families encountered an itinerant preacher from Biddeford, Maine at a local coffee house who discussed scripture with them. Through independent Bible study, they recognized doctrinal inconsistencies within Orthodox practice, particularly regarding the veneration of Mary, concepts of hell, and the clergy's elevated status.

Growth and Formation (1940–1960)

In 1940, some of the families joined the Advent Christian Church in Dover, while others continued home-based worship. By 1960, a smaller group formally established the Christian Believers Fellowship, emphasizing "the simplicity which is in Christ."

Building the Chapel (1974)

The fellowship eventually constructed a chapel on High Street in Somersworth in 1974. This provided a permanent home for worship and community gatherings.

Connecting with a Broader Movement

Through conferences and connections with similar Bible-study groups nationally, CBF discovered a broader movement of independent believers with comparable theological perspectives dating back to 1909 in Brooklyn. These connections strengthened the fellowship's commitment to biblical study and non-denominational worship.