First Presbyterian Church
Non-Denominational · Contemporary worship · Durham, NC
- Location
- Durham, North Carolina 27701
- Denomination
- Non-Denominational
- Worship style
- Contemporary
- Size
- Medium
- Ministries & emphasis
- Contemporary
- Google rating
- ★ 4.6 (42 reviews)
What visitors say
Am I seriously being asked to review a place of worship? I don't exactly feel qualified for that. But any time that I've been there, it seems like a nice welcoming place. I've even voted there once. And I believe there's an associated preschool, day care, or something like that. But it's basically a Presbyterian church near downtown Durham (NC). This is a wedding review - I knew that I wanted to be married in a church, and I spent weeks trying to find one that didn't have ridiculous restrictions and rules. It was a very disappointing process. My own church was meeting in a high school, so that wasn't really an option. For most churches, if they don't have the rule that you have to be a member, they have rules about using their pastors, no photography at all, music restrictions, program restrictions, ridiculous pricing, etc. FINALLY, I found First Presbyterian Church in Durham, NC. This building is absolutely amazing - one of the most beautiful interiors I have ever seen. To make things more awesome, it didn't cost a ridiculous amount of money, and Alissa Miles is their designated wedding coordinator. She loves her job and is AMAZING at it. They did give me a somewhat intimidating rulebook at first, but once I actually talked with Alissa, I realized that they were extremely laid back and really wanted my day to be what I had envisioned. None of their rules got in my way at all. Alissa was there for the rehearsal, and she was there to direct everyone on the day of. There is also a sound coordinator, and he was on top of every detail - microphones, the mp3 for the recessional (which was a secular song - most churches wouldn't have allowed it), and anything else sound-related. I LOVED LOVED LOVED being married in this church. I recommend it to anyone looking for a ceremony venue in the Triangle. So wonderful!! I first started coming to First Pres in 2012 and joined in 2013. It has been a wonderful faith home. I love how involved and invested the First Pres family is in the future of downtown Durham. The church is passionate about social justice and standing with those on the margins. I'm a member of the young adults group which does a weekly Sunday school, monthly potlucks, and other fellowship and volunteer activities. All great people! And great companions as we learn, grow, and live in Christ. Full disclosure - I've been a member at First Pres for many years. At first glance, there are many things to like about it - its history, its downtown location, the interesting and thought-provoking programs, the gorgeous sanctuary (with sound so good it doubles as a music venue) and more. But the real beauty of this church is that everyone is welcome there - and I mean everyone. The only requirement (as I've experienced) is that you be open-minded and welcoming to others as well. It's definitely worth a look. Beautiful church with wonderful people. Big but still very friendly and welcoming to everyone. Their age-related groups are active and add to the experience, but new people have to want to participate to make the most of this fellowship.
Is First Presbyterian Church right for me?
First Presbyterian Church may be a good fit if you're looking for contemporary worship, a Non-Denominational church in Durham. Every church feels different in person — plan to visit a Sunday service, and check the church's website for current service times.
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