What time does the service start?
Sunday morning worship starts at 10:00 a.m. with a musical prelude starting at 9:50 a.m.
How long does the service last?
A typical service is about 60-70 minutes.
What happens during a service?
First Presbyterian Church follows a typical Presbyterian service in some ways but atypical in others.
In the Presbyterian tradition the service is based on a Bible reading. There is a sermon (usually about 18-20 minutes) based on the text. Sermons may touch on anything from issues of faith we share in common, to specific issues that maybe only some of us are facing, to hot button current events challenging us as a progressive community of faith.
We also provide an age appropriate children’s sermon. See “What about children?” below.
Every service includes hymns led by piano or organ. From September through May, our choir — open to all — offers music leadership. Twice a month we also host a “pickup choir” for those who prefer a more spontaneous experience: simply come a little early on those Sundays to rehearse briefly before worship, no prior commitment or rehearsals required.
Each Sunday members of the congregation can share “Calls to Action” inviting others to join them in actions they are taking in the church or community. Our church has a history of bold statements and actions on current events and issues of social justice, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and climate action.
We share our prayers aloud every Sunday. We pass the microphone for any congregation members who wish to share prayer requests. Those attending our service via Zoom are also invited to share prayers. We end with a moment of silence for unspoken prayers.
We take Communion every Sunday. We practice an open table meaning everyone is welcome to participate in Communion regardless of what they believe or don’t believe, and regardless of what they have done or have not done. Communion is received by forming a large circle at the front of the sanctuary and passing the bread and cup around the circle. So we all serve one another. Those attending remotely by Zoom also share in Communion by bringing their own elements to partake.
We end the service by singing the final hymn standing in the circle. Seats are provided for all those who cannot stand.
We make every effort during the service to use gender neutral or gender diverse language for God and God’s people.
Where do I park?
We have a parking lot off of Lincoln Avenue and there is usually ample street parking on Cowper in front of the sanctuary. There is also a parking lot off Kingsley.
Physical Accessibility
The sanctuary is fully wheelchair accessible. We have a listening assistance system. We offer iPads so you can access the Zoom meeting of the service and turn on closed captioning in any language you choose.
What do I wear?
There is no dress code. Please wear whatever makes you comfortable. Most people dress casually but a couple folks dress in their Sunday best or at least Sunday pretty good.
What about children? Is there a Sunday School?
We welcome children in worship. For families who want it, we have a section in the back of the sanctuary with cushions, children’s books, and a drawing table with supplies. Someone (usually the Pastor) offers a children’s sermon when we have children present. We always have trained and carefully vetted church members who serve as Sunday School teachers. After the Children’s Sermon, children may choose to stay with their parents in worship, or can attend Sunday School in a separate classroom. Parents are also welcome to attend Sunday School or stay in worship.
What Do I Need To BELIEVE to participate?
All are welcome regardless of their belief. The sermons are very accessible and meaningful for everyone regardless of their religious background. If the language in hymns make you uncomfortable you are welcome to change the words or not sing certain parts.
Are there any recordings of previous services so I can preview what happens?
Yes. Recordings of recent services can be found on the church Facebook feed. Just scroll down to find videos of sermons and whole services.
Can I Also Worship Via Zoom?
Absolutely. You can learn about attending our worship service via Zoom here.
Are there any other services or gatherings on Sunday or during the week?
We currently have two other weekly offerings that have elements of worship. At 8:30 a.m. each Sunday we have a group that meets only on Zoom called Early Church. Early Church is “an intimate worship experience. It is a venture in “creating church,” taking its name from its gathering time (early on Sunday mornings) and its aspiration (to capture the spirit of the earliest Christians). This service features prayer, music, and discussion of the lectionary text for the day.” Contact info@fpcpaloalto.org for the Zoom link.
We also have a group that meets Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. in person only in Classroom 1. This group is called Being Good Ancestors. Inspired by and indebted to Indigenous wisdom, this group seeks to support one another in our efforts to make choices today so we will be known as good ancestors to the generations that follow us. All are welcome to participate in this study/discussion/teaching/supporting/organizing group. Contact tom@fpcpaloalto.org for more information.