Our Story
Almost two centuries by the water.
In the 1850s, people discovered a little beach area in Upstate New York, perfect for summer vacations. The influx of tourists to Sylvan Beach provided a perfect opportunity — to build a church that could preach and share the Gospel of Jesus Christ while giving vacationers a place of worship.
After almost two centuries (and many evolutions and changes), South Bay Chapel exists today to help people know Jesus, find forgiveness, and live awesome.
We're an independent church located directly across from Oneida Lake in Canastota, New York.
Our pastors
Tony & Sara Paredes
Senior Pastors Tony and Sara Paredes have been leading South Bay Chapel for almost 15 years — shepherding the church with grace, faith, and a heart for the people of this community.
Together with their family, they are passionate about helping people know Jesus, find forgiveness, and live awesome.
What we believe
Seven things we preach & teach.
- 01
Jesus is Everything
A perfect God came down to this imperfect world to live a sinless life and die a perfect death in the place of imperfect sinners. Jesus has conquered death, and lives today at the right hand of the Father.
- 02
The Trinity
One God, in three Persons — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each is fully God, eternally connected, with exclusive roles: the Father sends the Son, the Son dies in our place, the Spirit fills believers.
- 03
Sin & Forgiveness
All are sinners. All need saving. Jesus has come to save us. Through faith alone, we are forgiven because of what Jesus has done. Salvation is free and found in Jesus alone.
- 04
The Bible
The Bible is the Word of God — infallible, timeless, and perfect. The star of God's Word is Jesus.
- 05
The Church is Vital
The Church, together and individually, is the body of Christ. It's whom Jesus uses to change the world. The Church isn't perfect, but we serve a perfect God.
- 06
The Holy Spirit
He is a gift to believers, and empowers us to do all sorts of things — but primarily to glorify Jesus.
- 07
Music & Worship
Music is an amazing tool Christians can use to express their worship as they focus on Jesus. All styles of music can bring glory to our Risen Savior.
Ultimately, the best way to get to know us is to visit.