About First Presbyterian
Mission Statement
First Presbyterian Church is an inclusive and diverse faith community, led by the Holy Spirit, who welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds to come together to explore, nurture, and deepen their faith. Through worship, shared discussion, participation, and service, we aim to make God's love felt throughout our congregation, and community, and echo throughout the world. Our challenge is to serve God with joy and to bear witness to God's transforming love made visible in Jesus Christ.
What Do We Believe?
At First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor, we believe in the transformative power of God's love and the teachings of Jesus Christ. Our faith is grounded in the grace of God, the authority of Scripture, and the call to live out Christ’s love through service and community. We are committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive congregation, embracing the richness of different perspectives while remaining united in our core values of compassion, justice, and spiritual growth. We invite everyone to join us in exploring and deepening their faith as we seek to make a positive impact in the world around us.
What to Expect
When visiting First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor, you can expect a warm and welcoming environment where spiritual growth and community connection are at the forefront. Our services feature a blend of uplifting worship, engaging sermons, and meaningful opportunities for fellowship. You’ll find a diverse range of programs for all ages, from enriching educational classes to active volunteer opportunities. Our friendly members and dedicated staff are here to make you feel at home and guide you as you explore the vibrant life of our church.
Our History
The First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor was founded on August 21, 1826, by Rev. Noah M. Wells, who traveled from Detroit to organize the congregation with 17 members from New York and Virginia. Early services were held in various makeshift locations before the construction of a small frame church in 1829, followed by a larger frame building in 1837, and a new brick church in 1860, which was later updated during the Civil War. The church's commitment to campus ministry began with Tappan Hall in 1866, and in the 1920s, a new church was built on donated property, dedicated in 1938. Subsequent expansions included the Education Wing in 1965 and Monteith Chapel in 1998. Over the years, the church has been actively involved in local and global missions, supporting numerous causes and providing essential services.