Business Details
First Presbyterian Church Jackson: Worship & Mission in MS
First Presbyterian Church Jackson has been a steadfast witness to historic Reformed Christianity for over 187 years. Founded in 1837, we remain committed to the Bible as God's inerrant word and the Westminster Confession of Faith. Our mission centers on the Great Commission, supporting over 100 missionaries globally while fostering local community through age-specific ministries. We prioritize faithful preaching, sacraments, and spiritual regeneration through Christ. Our congregation emphasizes biblical fellowship, mutual care, and discipleship across all life stages.Through worship services, educational programs, and outreach initiatives, we seek to glorify God in Jackson and beyond. Our leadership maintains rigorous theological standards while addressing modern cultural challenges through a Reformed lens. Community engagement includes mission partnerships, stewardship programs, and intergenerational ministries. We uphold the sovereignty of God in salvation while maintaining transparent financial practices aligned with biblical principles.
Services
Worship Services
Sunday School
Mission Programs
Community Outreach
Youth Ministries
Senior Fellowships
Educational Programs
Highlights and features
- Established 1837 with continuous Reformed theological heritage
- Supports 100+ missionaries through global mission partnerships
- Offers age-specific ministries from nursery to senior adults
- Maintains accredited educational programs including FPDS
- Emphasizes biblical literacy through structured Sunday School
What people say
Biblical teaching
Welcoming community
Strong missions focus
Quality children's programs
Historic significance
Services
Worship Services
Three weekly worship gatherings blending traditional liturgy with contemporary relevance. Morning services feature expository preaching and sacraments, while evening worship emphasizes congregational singing. All services follow Reformed theological principles while maintaining accessibility for modern worshippers. Special liturgical celebrations occur during major Christian feasts.
Sunday School
Age-graded Sunday School programs for all life stages. Curriculum focuses on systematic Bible study, theological foundations, and practical application. Adult classes include in-depth book studies and topical series addressing contemporary issues through a Reformed framework. Special needs accommodations available.
Mission Programs
Comprehensive missions initiative supporting 100+ international workers and domestic church plants. Includes short-term mission trips, Twin Lakes Camp ministry, and local evangelism partnerships. Emphasizes church planting as primary mission strategy while maintaining accountability through regular field reporting.
Community Outreach
Multi-faceted community engagement through tutoring programs, rescue mission partnerships, and caregiver support groups. Specialized ministries serve college students, young professionals, and senior adults. Regular service projects focus on urban renewal and family support in central Mississippi.
Educational Programs
First Presbyterian Day School provides accredited early childhood education with biblical values. Adult education includes certificate programs in Reformed theology and leadership training. Specialized courses available for youth confirmation and marriage preparation.
People
David Strain
Senior Pastor
Ordained minister with 25+ years pastoral experience. Holds ThM from Dallas Theological Seminary. Leads weekly preaching ministry and oversees staff. Focuses on theological education and global missions strategy.
Geoffrey Thomas
Preaching Pastor
Welsh-born theologian with 40+ years in pastoral ministry. Regular conference speaker on Reformed theology. Teaches adult Sunday School and leads Wednesday evening programs. Known for expository preaching style.
Derek Thomas
Teaching Pastor
Council member of The Gospel Coalition. Professor at Reformed Theological Seminary. Contributes to major theological publications. Leads worship services and oversees music ministry.
Wiley Lowry
Associate Pastor
Specializes in youth and young adult ministry. Organizes annual mission trips. Teaches Sunday School and leads men's discipleship groups. Focuses on connecting college students with local church involvement.
David Felker
Children's Minister
Develops curriculum for nursery through junior high programs. Coordinates special needs ministry. Organizes family events and parent training workshops. Emphasizes early theological education.
Questions
What denominational affiliation does First Presbyterian Church have?
We are part of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), adhering to Reformed theology and Presbyterian governance.
Are there programs for children and youth?
Yes, we offer age-specific ministries from nursery through high school, including Sunday School, summer camps, and mission opportunities.
How can I get involved in missions?
Our missions committee coordinates short-term trips, supports long-term missionaries, and organizes local outreach projects. Contact the church office for details.
What worship styles are available?
We offer traditional liturgical worship with hymns at 8:30am and blended contemporary-traditional services at 11am and 6pm.
Is there educational programming for adults?
Yes, weekly Sunday School classes include book studies, theological topics, and life-stage discussions led by experienced instructors.
How does the church support local community?
Through tutoring programs, rescue mission partnerships, caregiver support groups, and urban renewal initiatives in central Mississippi.
