Our Church History

In 1987, representatives from the First Presbyterian Church and Fort King Presbyterian Church decided that there was a need for a Presbyterian Church on Southwest SR 200 in Ocala. The chartering service of Countryside Presbyterian Church and the installation of Rev. Robert K. McGirt took place on May 15, 1988, at First Presbyterian Church in downtown Ocala. A small group of dedicated members began meeting in Roberts Funeral Home (formerly Bruce West) on SR 200. This marked the first steps of the founding of the church you see today. Their initial sacrifice and vision made it possible for the church to prosper and grow. Pastor Robert K. McGirt led the new congregation in worship and under his leadership, a new building was constructed that consisted of a multipurpose room, which served as the sanctuary, and two offices. In October 1990, a classroom, kitchen and nursery were added. Pastor McGirt continued to serve Countryside until his death in June 2000.

In May 2001, Pastor Gary O. Marshall was installed as Countryside’s second pastor, which also marked the church’s 13th year anniversary. As the Ocala community grew, so did the congregation and its outreach. Kay O’Connor became our first full-time Business Administrator in November 2001.

In 2002, the church began to work with CDH Partners, Inc. of Atlanta on the design and expansion of its current facilities. In 2003, Ausley Construction Co. LLC was engaged as our contractor and after a successful fundraising, the groundbreaking ceremony was held in July. The cornerstone was celebrated in a service of dedication and thanksgiving on Reformation Sunday in 2004.

The new sanctuary was equipped with a state-of-the-art sound system, adequate offices and classrooms with a fellowship space dedicated as “Founder’s Hall” in October 2005. With this expansion, our church continued to grow in faith and outreach for the community. After 21 years as Countryside’s spiritual leader, Pastor Marshall retired in December 2022.

In January 2023, Pastor Rhonda Link-Cummings, Minister of the Word for the past 43 years, was appointed as Interim Pastor. She has served the Presbytery of St. Augustine on the Call Committee and as an Area Coordinator.

Today, we offer Bible Studies and Christian Education Classes. The Missions Committee organizes monthly donations of food and clothing which is distributed to Interfaith Community Services and collects children’s socks and underwear collections for Marion Oaks Elementary School. Our church has an active pastoral care program through its Shepherding Ministry. Our Crafty Christians make clothing and comfort items for hospice and Interfaith Emergency Services. The church’s Fellowship Committee provides monthly lunches with guest speakers and dinners for church members and friends.

Countryside’s outreach to the community includes hosting Cancer and Al Anon and AA support groups. Currently, we provide use of Founder’s Hall for the Girl Scouts, Line Dancing and JB Ranch HOA meetings. The Sanctuary is available for weddings, and Founder’s Hall is also available to rent for receptions, meetings and parties.

The church grounds contain a Memorial Garden which is reserved for members, and a meditation garden.

We embrace the joy of Christian music and since October 23, 2018, Raul Ramirez Lugo has served as the Director of Music. He conducts our Chancel Choir and Handbell Choir. He brings his excellent credentials of music from his birthplace in Puerto Rico with a Bachelor’s Degree in Piano and a Master’s Degree in Arts Administration.

September to May, the Countryside Concert Series offers entertainment on Sunday afternoons which includes performances from the Master Choir of Central Florida and music from local performers. We host a very popular Countryside Faire (rummage sale) every February, Adult Vacation Bible School, an Annual Church Picnic, Fall Arts & Crafts Show, and a Christmas Gift Auction.

With our 38 years in service to the Lord in the city of Ocala, we are proud of what we have achieved with God’s guidance. We describe our church as a warm and inclusive family where all who enter through our doors are welcome. Our Sunday Worship Services include a contemporary early service at 9:00 am in our Founder’s Hall and a traditional service at 10:30 am in our sanctuary. Come Join us!