Worship has been described as "the primary work of the congregation." It is certainly critical in the life and ministry of the church. Worship is the one activity that involves the entire congregation. It is our primary contact with our community. When people are looking for a church they start by attending worship. And often it is worship that becomes the deciding factor in determining whether or not a person will continue a relationship with a church. Most people consider worship to be the primary motivation and encouragement for the life of faith.
At First Presbyterian worship is a vibrant blend of worship styles, music, the dramatic and visual arts, and participatory engagement of the congregation. Our aim is to capture the energy and spiritual quality of contemporary worship while embracing the richness of traditional worship.
Worship design and content are highly regarded at First Presbyterian. Staff resources are devoted to the careful planning of each service. We began 2025 with the annual worship theme: “Rooted in Faith, Growing in Grace”. A monthly theme is selected to support that theme. Recent themes include:
A Message From Pastor RJ Leek
01/16/26
In the quiet routines of our faith lives, it's easy to settle into familiar patterns—attending the same services, mingling with the same faces, and sticking to tried-and-true ministries. Yet, true growth for the local church demands something more: the courage to leave our comfort zones. As Jesus called His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19), He wasn't inviting them to stay put; He was urging them into uncharted territories, where discomfort breeds transformation. Leaving our comfort zone is vital for church expansion because it fosters innovation and outreach. When we cling to the status quo, congregations can stagnate, becoming inward-focused echo chambers rather than vibrant beacons of hope. Stepping out invites fresh perspectives, drawing in diverse souls who might never wander through our doors otherwise. It's in these vulnerable moments—sharing faith with strangers, experimenting with new worship styles, or serving in unfamiliar communities—that the Holy Spirit moves powerfully, sparking revival and unity. Personal growth mirrors this: just as muscles strengthen through resistance, our spiritual lives deepen when challenged. By embracing discomfort, we model Christ's sacrificial love, inspiring others to join the mission. The local church thrives not in safety, but in bold obedience, multiplying impact and fulfilling God's kingdom vision. To apply this, here are three practical suggestions:
1. Volunteer for Outreach Events: Sign up for community service projects outside your usual circle, like neighborhood clean-ups or food drives, to connect with potential new members.
2. Host Inclusive Gatherings: Organize small group meetings in public spaces, such as parks or cafes, inviting non-churchgoers to casual discussions on faith topics.
3. Mentor Newcomers: Pair with someone from a different background in your church, sharing experiences to build bridges and encourage mutual growth.