What is distinctive about First Presbyterian Church?
Organized in 1832, First Church is an historic congregation committed to engagement in the present life of Tallahassee and the world. This sense of engagement arises in part from our location in the heart of Florida's capital city and our proximity to seats of government and education, but most of all it comes from our resolve to live as a people grateful for God's love in Christ.
This engagement begins in worship. Active liturgy fosters active disciples. Worship at First Church makes use of forms which for centuries have been vehicles for the full participation of God's people. The liturgy is rich in scriptural language and imagery, and attempts to express the essential balance between the Word preached and the Word enacted, especially in the sacraments of Baptism and Communion. Children are encouraged to take part in worship as full members of the body of Christ.
This engagement continues in service. Through the investment of ourselves in our work and leisure, through programs of direct outreach, through the extensive use of church buildings, and through our partnership in worldwide Presbyterian mission, we at First Church are committed to putting faith to work.
This engagement is sustained through study and nurture. Pastoral care and Christian Education are essential to our mission. We try to be both a thinking and a caring congregation.