First Presbyterian Church is a small but active church with a surprising number of programs and missions; we like to say we’re “tiny but mighty”!
Room at the Inn
One of our most engaging and soul-satisfying missions is the Room at the Inn homeless shelter, an interfaith initiative administered by the Sisters of Divine Providence. One Saturday each month First Pres members join together to provide a safe, comfortable environment for up to 10 people who are without housing. We prepare and serve dinner and breakfast, provide entertainment and transportation to and from the day site, and spend the night with the guests. This mission bestows on the congregation the opportunity to be the face of God to those in distress, but more often than not, members are the ones who feel blessed by their interaction with the people they are fortunate to meet and share in their journey.
The Jane Horner Fund
The Jane Horner Fund was established years ago as a pastoral discretionary fund and is now managed by the deacons to help University City residents with outstanding utility bills. Working through the School District of University City, the deacons assist families on an as-needed basis. This mission is funded by congregational donations and deacons’ fundraising efforts. The deacons sponsor an annual spaghetti dinner and silent auction each fall to raise money for the fund. This congregation knows how to have fun even in the midst of work!
Nicaragua Partnership
Members of First Pres have been active participants in the Presbytery’s Nicaragua Partnership Committee since its inception in 2000. The committee has established a relationship with Plan Grande 2, a community of 350 people in Nicaragua.
Members of First Pres have traveled to Plan Grande and community members have reciprocated, visiting St. Louis. The partnership encourages cross-cultural relationships and allows members to support Plan Grande in self development. A Secondary School Scholarship program has supported more than 50 students in three years.
Food Pantry
We support the food pantry at West Presbyterian Church with monthly donations of canned goods.
Additional Outreach
First Pres is a place where members of the broader community can come together. Boy Scout Troup 49 has been sponsored by First Pres for over 50 years. An Alcoholics Anonymous group meets weekly here, as does a Taiwanese young adult group.
