Congregational Singing
We believe the congregation’s voice is an important part of worship. Everyone is invited to sing, participate, and offer their presence as part of the gathered community.
At First Presbyterian, music belongs to the people. Through congregational singing, instruments, prayer, Scripture, and reflection, we offer our gifts to God and to one another.
We believe music is not simply something performed for a congregation. It is something created by the congregation as an offering to God. Our worship invites people of all ages and musical backgrounds to participate.
“The church which does not sing is not the church.” — Karl Barth
We value participation, welcome a diversity of musical traditions, and seek to create worship that is thoughtful, meaningful, and inclusive.
We believe the congregation’s voice is an important part of worship. Everyone is invited to sing, participate, and offer their presence as part of the gathered community.
Our worship includes hymns from the Glory to God hymnal, along with contemporary, folk, and classical music.
Our praise band includes volunteers from different generations, including several student worship leaders. Church members also contribute through solos, ensembles, and other musical offerings.
Following the chiming of the hour, our praise band opens the service with two congregational songs.
The pipe organ is used throughout the service for the prelude, postlude, hymn, and sometimes the offertory or anthem.
Every service includes Scripture and a thoughtful, biblically based sermon. Worship typically lasts about one hour.
All congregants and visitors are encouraged to share their interests, requests, and ideas with our Director of Worship. Singers and instrumentalists are welcome to volunteer.
Our emphasis is on inclusion and participation rather than performance quality. There is room for many kinds of musical gifts within our worshiping community.
The praise band rehearses on Sunday mornings from 9:00–10:00 a.m.
The Worship Committee meets approximately every six weeks and helps guide worship and special services.
We welcome conversations about musical gifts, worship ideas, special services, and ways to participate in the life of the church.
Throughout the year, we gather for special services that invite us into reflection, celebration, prayer, remembrance, and community.
These gatherings offer opportunities to experience worship through music, Scripture, prayer, silence, and shared participation.
A seasonal service and gathering centered on community, hospitality, and the story of Christ’s birth.
Special services that provide space for prayer, reflection, and a shared commitment to peace.
A contemplative worship experience during Lent, shaped by music, prayer, silence, and reflection.
A seasonal gathering that invites us to reflect on creation, light, and the rhythms of the year.
A special service held in October that offers space for remembrance, compassion, and hope.
Our Christmas Eve service is traditionally held at 6:00 p.m.
Dates and additional details for seasonal and special services will be shared through the church’s current announcements and event information.
Communion is usually celebrated on the first Sunday of each month.
All people are welcome at the table, regardless of membership, faith background, or belief. Come as you are and expect to feel welcomed as our guest.
If you are interested in singing, playing an instrument, contributing an idea, or learning more about music at First Presbyterian, we invite you to connect with our Director of Worship.