Frequently Asked Questions about
First Presbyterian Church, Bay City


What is First Presbyterian Church?
First Presbyterian Church (FPC) is a dynamic and growing congregation of the Presbyterian Church U.S.A., dedicated to serving Bay City, Matagorda County, our nation and our world. FPC is a place where people - both those whose faith is new and unsure, and those whose faith is already well nurtured - continue to learn about, develop, and deepen their relationship with God. God calls us to be a worshiping community of faith that reaches out with love to all people, through teaching and preaching the Word, demonstrating grace, and serving in the name of Christ Jesus.

Who is the pastor?
We are served by the Reverend John-Nelson Pope, who was called to Bay City in January, 2004.

When are worship services?
We offer a traditional worship service each Sunday morning at 11:00 am, and a contemporary praise service each Sunday evening at 5:30 pm. Both services are held in the church's beautiful sanctuary. Other services are scheduled for special days or events, such as Christmas Eve, Thanksgiving, and Maundy Thursday. Feel free to contact the church office (979-245-8327) for more information about any of our worship services.

Where can I park?
Designated visitor parking spaces are located in front of the church on Avenue H. Additional parking is available on either side of Ave. H, 5th St., and 6th St. In addition to street parking, you are welcome to park in the City Hall parking lot.

What music programs are available?
Our music program is led by John Hodges, with voice and handbell choirs available for ages three through adult. Opportunities are also available for instrumentalists regardless of instrument. Over the past year, we have had guitar, organ, piano, ukelele, trumpet, flute, bass, violin, handbells, synthesizer, percussion, and even bagpipes perform at our services as an offering to God. There are also children's handbells and choir programs.

What programs are available for youth?
In addition to opportunities for youth within our music programs, we have dynamic and growing Junior High, and Senior High Youth Group programs, run by our wonderful and energetic Youth Director, Cindy Hodges. The Youth Group normally meets on Sunday afternoons between 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm in Robbins Hall, and all youth 6th grade through 12th grade are welcome! Our contemporary service is scheduled immediately afterwards, and we encourage the youth to actively participate in this evening worship experience.

Where do I take my children for childcare during services or other church functions?
Children of all ages are encouraged to attend church with their parents. However, nursery and childcare is available during both worship services. The nursery is located on the ground floor of the church, directly behind the sanctuary. Any usher or church member will be glad to direct you to the nursery. The room is well-equipped with toys and activities to keep your young-one occupied.

What kind of Sunday School and Christian education do we offer?
We offer a growing, multi-faceted educational ministry program for our members and visitors, young and old. Sunday School morning classes for adults and children are offered year-round. However, educational offerings are not limited to Sunday mornings. The pastor offers a Bible study each Tuesday at noon in Robbins Hall. We are also proud of our hosting of one of the largest Vacation Bible Schools in the county each summer, ministering recently to over eighty children!

How do I find out more about joining this congregation?
Rev. Pope would love to meet with you and provide you with more information on becoming a member of our church. Please contact him at 979-245-8327 for more information on how you can make a difference in our congregation.