Campus
Come wander through our campus! FPCA is a special space — from the welcome and faith-filled energy to the walls that hold us close as a church community. This campus has many stories to tell. There are elements from our history that honor God and reflect our love for his creation. “Church facilities …” says Rev. C.D. Weaver, active member and retired PC(USA) pastor, “can call us to a greater spiritual vision and to a deeper sharing of all God’s bounty and beneficence.”
We believe our campus is a place to learn about God, be present in our faith, hold stories of our past, and prepare for the future of our ministry beyond these walls.
The Stained Glass Windows
FPCA brought literal pieces of its history from its past: the beautiful stained glass windows. Set in a spacious contemporary sanctuary, each Sunday these windows preach powerful sermons – about bright light manifesting in many colors to illuminate God’s love and about profound tradition prompting a progressive faith.
Designed and installed from 1890 to 1910 for the original building on 7th and Lavaca, these windows can be found as a mosaic of light in our sanctuary and in many rooms all over the campus.
Sacred Spaces Art Gallery
Church is a place we go to replenish our spirit. Art galleries are places people go in the secular world to replenish the spirit and fuel creative thought. The importance of art in faith development and religion is undisputed. FPCA dedicates a portion of its space to a “Sacred Art Series” featuring and supporting artists we know in our extended community. Wander through the gallery on Sundays to appreciate, inspire, and challenge your faith.
The Labyrinth
A labyrinth is a spiritual tool for meditation and prayer, representing unity and the journey of life. There is no right or wrong way to walk our labyrinth. As you walk, simply let go of the details of your life. Each turn can be imagined as the turns in one's own life or in their day. Pray for guidance and listen for God's voice in the noises around you.
This labyrinth was built as a replica of the Chartres Labyrinth in the floor of the Chartres Cathedral in France (1220). It was designed and created with love and donations from Boy Scout Troop #1 and FPCA volunteers. The labyrinth was modified slightly to incorporate the shade of the Texas trees in its surrounding area.
The Memorial Fountain
The fountain was added to the FPCA memorial garden in loving memory of Rev. Jane Van Auken, who served our church from 1989 to 1999. The fountain not only serves to honor her life and service to God, but also as a reflection of the hope of God's good news in Jesus Christ. The large Fort Davis rock on the left of the fountain recalls the rock Moses struck to bring forth saving water for the children of Israel. The water flows around twelve engraved stones, representing the stones the children took from the bed of the Jordan River. The quote at the face of the fountain from the Book of Revelation centers both our grief and our hope in the never-ending providence of God.
Rejoice Statue
The tradition of church art being used to inspire comfort, hope, and faith is manifest as “Rejoice” dances in welcome for those seeking serenity in our Memorial Garden. The statue was sculpted in 2003 by the late Nancy Cardozier, artist and member, honoring loved ones and families who visit this church.