Organized on November 4, 1832, First Presbyterian Church is
one of the oldest congregations in Tallahassee. Its Greek revival sanctuary,
completed in 1838, is the only church still standing from Territorial days. From
its beginning, the church has been involved in the life of Florida's capital
city. The Territorial government designated the sanctuary as an official refuge
during the Seminole Indian Wars, and to this day the church is a place for
refuge, service, worship, study, and nurture.
We are especially conscious of the unique challenges facing us as a downtown congregation in the state capital. As the city grows around us, we have a special calling to serve poor, hungry, and homeless neighbors. Through the years, many community organizations have gotten their start at First Church, including Meals on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity, Terrell House, and the Shelter of Tallahassee and Leon County. For many years, we have been the host of the ECHO Midday Meal Program.
As Presbyterians, we strive for our common life to show the lordship of Christ and the love of God for the world. In addition to providing ministries of worship, education, and nurture, we encourage all members to show compassion and to work for justice in their own lives. Our congregation is a charter member of Tallahassee Equality Action Ministry (TEAM).
We welcome children and youth as full participants in the life and work of the congregation.
The heart of our life together is worship. From it flows our commitment to bear witness to God's love in Jesus Christ, and through it we are empowered to bear Christ's light into the world.
Guided by the example of saints who have gone before us, we remain open to God's call to new forms of ministry. Our goal in the 21st century is the same as that of our founders in the 19th century: to glorify God and enjoy God forever.