Q: Is nursery care provided?

A: Yes. Our nursery is located on the first floor of the building inside the doors of the north entrance.  Nursery care is provided for all worship services and Sunday School.  For additional programing, childcare is provided as advertised by specific event. 

Q: How do I become a member of the church?

A: Our Inquirers Class is offered on a regular basis. Those interested in learning more about First Pres, the Christian Faith and Presbyterianism or requesting to be a member are invited to attend. The class experience will vary according to the number of people who are part of any group. We are glad to welcome people who will request membership through transfer of letter, re-affirmation of faith or profession of faith. Those approved for membership will then give evidence of their faith during a worship service by answering membership questions. The sacrament of baptism will be administered for anyone not previously baptized. 

Q: What special worship services does First Presbyterian Church provide during the year?

A:  First Pres offers an Ash Wednesday simple supper (6:00 PM) and worship experience (7:00 PM) in our Fellowship Hall on the Wednesday prior to the first Sunday in Lent. During Holy Week, a Maundy Thursday worship service is held at 7:00 PM on the Thursday immediately before Easter Sunday. We also offer two special Christmas Eve services. The first is at noon in our chapel and includes the sacrament of The Lord’s Supper. The second at 7:30  in our sanctuary. It is a candlelight service built on the pattern of the Lessons and Carols worship of King’s College Chapel at Cambridge University in England. Each summer we move into a special mode of Sunday morning life. While we do not offer Sunday classes during the summer, we add an 8:30 worship service outdoors (weather permitting) in our garden that is between our front drive and our building along Riverside Avenue. 

Q: Do I have to be a member of the church to attend worship services, receive communion and participate in activities?

A:  No.  Everyone is welcome to participate fully in our ministry and mission. The only exceptions to this are that one must be a member of the church in order to be elected as an officer (Elders and Deacons) or to vote in congregational meetings.

Q: What should I wear to church?

A: There is no dress code at First Presbyterian Church--written or unwritten.  We are an informal church whose highest priority is to worship and serve God and to encourage others to do the same.  We don't care what you wear.  You’ll be with some people who wear from jeans and t-shirts to coats and ties or dresses. Please dress in whatever way you wish.

Q: What should I expect when I visit First Presbyterian Church on a typical Sunday?

A: You will be welcomed with genuine friendship.  You will be free to come as you are and come as you feel and yet also you should expect to be challenged with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Through all of the elements and words and symbols of worship, you will presented with the opportunity to examine your own life in relation to the love of God.  Over time, as you become more familiar with First Presbyterian Church, you will discover several different ways to share your gifts and partner with others in serving and glorifying God.  In essence, you will be provided with a place and an environment where you can depart from your regular routine and listen for the voice of God.

Q: Will I have to say anything, sign anything, or be singled out when I come to church for the first time?

A: No, you won't have to do any of those things.  Although we do ask for contact information, it's up to you as to whether or not you want to share that. During the service we also have a tradition of greeting others as we “pass the peace” in a non-threatening way. The pastor or another congregational leader will be at one of the main doors to greet people after each service. All this is to help everyone feel welcome.  When you come to worship and you will have the opportunity to focus on God, pray and learn about God without the need of any special skills. You'll meet some wonderful folks who will be happy to see you...all in all, not a bad day.