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
02/27/26
The second week of Lent invites us to leave the dry, dusty wilderness of the first week and begin a steady climb up the mountain. In the traditional Gospel readings for this week, we often encounter the Transfiguration, where Jesus takes Peter, James, and John to a high place and is revealed in dazzling, blinding glory (Matthew 17:1–2).
On that peak, a voice from a bright cloud gave a simple but staggering command: "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him" (Matthew 17:5).
In our daily lives, "listening" is rarely quiet. We are often surrounded by the "noise" of digital distractions, busy schedules, and our own inner anxieties. Yet, this Lenten week calls us to practice a different kind of hearing. It’s not just about catching words; it’s about a deep listening that allows Christ’s light to "purify our eyes" and reorient our hearts. As the Psalmist writes, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path" (Psalm 119:105).
Like the disciples, we might feel the urge to stay on the mountaintop, building "tents" to keep the feeling of peace alive. But the grace we receive on the mountain is meant to sustain us for the journey back down into the valley, where we are called to serve others with renewed mercy.
Reflection: Where in your life is it too noisy to hear God? This week, try to find five minutes of intentional silence each day. Reflect on Mark 9:2–10 and ask God to reveal His glory in the ordinary moments of your day.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the glimpses of Your glory that sustain us. Help me to stay awake and attentive to Your voice this week. When the world is loud, let Your word be the light that guides my path. Amen.