---

A new vision is taking shape at First Presbyterian Church. Many long established congregations find themselves declining, or struggling to maintain. Is it possible to bring something new out of something old? Abraham and Sarah discovered God could do precisely this when Isaac was born! First Presbyterian, one of the earliest congregations in Richmond (1837), founded Second in 1893 as an outreach into what was then a new neighborhood. The merger of these two congregations in 1999 created a new church 268 years old! The new congregation is larger (over 300 members) with a greater mix of people and significantly greater resources, which include a nice manse, and the "Interfaith Mission Center" which houses the Community Food Pantry, and sponsors neighborhood outreach.

Our newly merged congregation, part of the PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH USA, is now served by two pastors. David Layman was born in Richmond, served Second as its pastor in his first call out of seminary, and has been pastor at First since 1988. Even though the last time we looked, David wasn't "over the hill", he has served in this community for longer than any other active pastor we are aware of. In March of 2000, Pastor Barb Kenley accepted our call to journey from California and begin her ministry among us. Barb left behind a budding and successful career in banking to follow Gods call to the ministry. Pastors David and Barb each bring different skills along with a deep faith. Here you will find a timeless Gospel, a new church, new millennium and new pastoral team to serve the God who promises to "make all things new" (Revelation 21:5).

As the twenty-first century begins to dawn, it seems as if the strife and divisions ot the century soon to be past have sorely tested the Church of Jesus Christ. Many long established congregations face serious decline, some fear imminent death. Tensions between "liberals" and "conservatives" as well as personality conflicts lead to splits. Is there a church that holds to the historic doctrines of the Christian faith, yet is successful at presenting the Gospel in a vital and life changing way to a new generation of believers? A church which cares for BOTH social justice, and the integrity of the Biblical witness? Is there a church where you wont just be a number, but which is large enough to make a difference in this community, a church where you can become involved and find fulfillment in discovering YOUR OWN ministry? Is there a church where people will accept you for who you are, yet encourage you to let God make you into what only God can enable you to become?

Two stained glass windows from the old Second Presbyterian building have been installed in the education wing. THESE WINDOWS WILL BE LIT WITH FLOOD LIGHTS TO SHOW THEM UP AT NIGHT FROM NORTH 10TH STREET.