First Presbyterian Church is part of the PC (USA)
For over four centuries, Presbyterians have been responding to the call of Jesus Christ, taking the gospel into the world and bearing witness to Christ’s saving love to the ends of the earth. Today the Holy Spirit is still on the move, calling us to share in what God is doing in the world.
Shaped by its Reformed theology, history, and representational form of leadership, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) faithfully works to serve Christ in the world through new and existing communities of faith, hope, love, and witness.
FAQs
See information below to learn a little bit more about us
What does First Pres believe?
PC (USA) WebsiteThe Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) affirms the distinctive beliefs of the Reformed Tradition, which date back to principles articulated by John Calvin in the 16th century. Central to the Reformed tradition is affirmation of the sovereignty of God. That assurance provides a basis for other traits of the Reformed way: that God calls us to service in the world, that our life together is to be ordered in ways that enable all members to flourish, that God calls us to generous stewardship of what we have, and that we are to stay alert to the human tendency to idolatry and tyranny and respond to God’s call to work for a society that seeks justice.
The PC(USA) confesses its beliefs in statements of faith from across the history of the church. Twelve statements of faith are gathered together in the first part of the denomination’s constitution, called the Book of Confessions. According to the second part of the constitution, the Book of Order, in the confessional statements the PC(USA) “declares to its members and to the world who and what it is, what it believes, and what it resolves to do.”
Who can participate?
Everyone.
People of all abilities, ages, ethnicities, gender identities, political leanings, races, religious traditions, sexual orientations, and socio-economic backgrounds are welcomed and celebrated as expressions of God’s creativity.
For clarity: Yes, we hire, are currently led by, ordain, and officiate weddings for women and LGBTQ persons.
How does this church live out its faith in the world?
Presbyterians believe that Jesus Christ made it clear in his teachings we have an ethical responsibility to engage in issues of social justice. Our social witness stance is affirmed by the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), which encourages church members and leaders to go to places of suffering and need to alleviate poverty, stop violence, protect the planet from climate change, and seek justice for immigrants, the LGBTQIA+ community, and people of color. By engaging in those issues from a biblical perspective, the church recognizes God’s sovereignty over every aspect of human life.
The PC(USA) has a long history of applying theological insights to issues that affect society, believing that all people are children of God. The church seeks to earnestly discern the will of Christ, and to speak and act with humility and love.
What can I expect on a Sunday morning?
As you arrive at the building, you will be greeted by some of our deacons, you'll grab a name tag, and then you can head to The Well (where you can meet people and enjoy coffee and snacks before and after worship), the restrooms, the childcare room, and the Sanctuary.
Each week, we come together for a worship service centered around the Word of God, including a children’s time, scripture reading, and sermon. The service also includes prayer, singing hymns, and choral and instrumental music.
Still have a question?
One of our staff members will be happy to answer any questions you might have.
