The Evangelical Free Church of Fresno began in 1949 as a prayer meeting in the home of Malcom and Ruth Nelson. As the prayer meeting continued to grow, the small group realized a church building was in order. The first church building was established at Cedar and Olive in 1950.

The first pastor, Elmer Lindquist, planted his last of over forty church plants during his life here in Fresno. Lindquist would often gesture to the little chapel at the original location in Central Fresno, smile and state, "This is my last fling." Through the nurturing of many dedicated people and God's blessings, the "last fling" is now located on Ashlan & Bond in Northeast Fresno and has grown to its present influence.

The Evangelical Free Church of Fresno was renamed The Bridge Evangelical Free Church in 2006, as a reflection of our desire to be a useful connection point for people to find Jesus Christ and follow him fully. It is our hope that the Holy Spirit will use every person who connects at The Bridge, to become a growing disciple of Christ, serving and reaching others.

In the more than 60 years of our history, it is impossible to quantify how God has helped us to be a blessing to the people of Fresno, and we pray that God uses The Bridge for 60 years to come.