WHERE DO I PARK?
Our parking lot is across the street from the main church building, on 15th Street. We have designated handicap parking behind the Fellowship Hall in the small lot that connects 14th & 15th St.
WHAT IS THERE FOR MY KIDS?
Our Family Ministry program is unique in that our goal is to connect the whole family together, rather than spread everyone out across the campus for separate programs. If you have kids from ages 4 to 18, just come on up to the Big Room (2nd floor) on a Sunday morning during the 10:00am Discipleship Hour and we’ll get you situated from there. We have childcare available for kids 3 and under in the Fellowship Hall.
HOW LONG HAS THE CHURCH BEEN AROUND?
First Presbyterian Church was the first church in Manatee County, starting back in 1886, led by the vision of some fine folks who saw a need for this church in the communty. We have a rich history that has provided an amazing foundation for over 130 years, and we are still striving to bring Christ’s light to a world in need.
WHAT DENOMINATION IS THE CHURCH?
First Presbyterian Church belongs to the Presbyterian Church USA, which is a Christian denomination that was born during the Protestant movement of the Reformation. While each Christian denomination has its unique approach to ministry, the PC(USA) offers our church the great freedom to exercise our Christ-centered, Biblically-guided, evangelical approach to ministry.
HOW DO I JOIN THE CHURCH?
We have two membership classes during the year, usually right before Christmas and Easter. However, in reality, we strive more for active participation and engagement than membership. So, come worship, grow and serve with us, get plugged in and get to know us, and we’ll take care of the membership aspect later. Joining the church is done by profession of faith (and baptism, when it has never been done before), re-affirmation of faith, or by letter of transfer from another church.
DO YOU HELP PEOPLE WITH SPECIFIC NEEDS?
We strive to serve the needs of our community to the best of our ability and within a strong network of churches and para-church organizations. Our current programs are food-based, with the Food Pantry open twice a week and monthly Koinonia lunches. Through these programs, we also offer personable interaction and prayer when it is requested. Unfortunately, we are not able to address any needs outside of the food services we offer. If you have needs that go beyond food, please contact Manatee Religious Services at (941) 752-4271
DO I HAVE TO BE A MEMBER TO FULLY PARTICIPATE?
Absolutely not! Everything we do is open to everyone, at whatever step of the faith journey you are on. We strive to meet you right where you are at, and we want to walk alongside you in your unique faith journey. Communion is open to members, non-members, and guests alike, who profess faith in Jesus Christ.
CAN I GET MARRIED AT THE CHURCH?
Yes…if you would like for our Pastor to officiate your Christian wedding at the church, please contact the church office to get the details and the fee schedule.
CAN I HAVE A FUNERAL AT THE CHURCH?
Yes…if you would like for our Pastor to preside over a funeral (a.k.a. Service of Witness to the Resurrection) please contact the church office to get the details and the fee schedule.
CAN I HAVE A SPECIAL EVENT AT THE CHURCH?
Possibly, but only at the discretion of our staff and Session. When it comes to having the community use our building, we strive to be in partnership with organizations and people who share our values. It can take a while for our Session to evaluate and approve outside events, so please contact the church office for a Facility Use Request as early as possible.
CAN I MEET THE PASTOR?
Sure! While our pastors and staff maintain a very busy day-to-day schedule, we also love meeting people and getting to know them. If you would like to meet with the pastor, simply call the church office to schedule an appointment.