I'm New
Visiting a new church is a little vulnerable. We know that.
FPCA is a congregation that asks questions, sits with uncertainty, and believes God shows up in all of it. Whatever brought you here, you’re welcome to come as you are and see what you find.
Let Us Know You're Coming
If you'd like a little help before you arrive
Reach out to our engagement coordinator, Cecile Shopen. She can answer questions, make sure someone is watching for you at the door, and send along arrival details ahead of time.
If you’d rather slip in quietly and get a feel for things first, that’s completely fine too.
After your visit, Cecile will follow up to say hello and answer any questions. That’s it, unless you want more information, of course.
What to Expect on Sunday
Worship begins at 10:00 am.
Most people arrive between 9:45 and 10:00 to settle in, find a seat, and say hello to familiar faces.
The service draws on Presbyterian tradition without being stuffy. You’ll hear organ and piano, the Sanctuary Choir, scripture, and preaching that takes both the text and your real life seriously. Children and worship leaders are woven into the service throughout. The Passing of the Peace runs a little long by design because people actually mean it.
If you're wondering
You won’t be asked to stand up and introduce yourself. You won’t need to know the words to everything. The bulletin will guide you through what’s happening; the words to prayers and hymns are projected on the screen up front. And remember, the people around you were once new here too.
Communion is every Sunday. The table is open to everyone, adults and children alike. Communion is by intinction (we dip our bread in the cup) and alcohol-free. There is a middle serving station that is gluten- and allergen-free.
Can't make it in person?
The service is livestreamed every Sunday.
You can also view past services if you want to watch later in the week.
Parking & Arrival
We're at 8001 Mesa Drive in Austin's Northwest Hills neighborhood.
Park in the main lot. If you need accessible parking or want to drop off passengers first, the circular drive near the entrance works for both.
You will be greeted at the door. Remember to stop by the Welcome Table to pick up a name tag if you’d like one and to get oriented to the space.
For Families
Children don’t sit on the sidelines here. They participate, and Sunday mornings are better for it.
A few things to know before you arrive:
God put the wiggle in children – don’t feel that you need to suppress it.
Worship Bags are available below the Welcome board and include crayons, coloring sheets, and puzzles. You can also borrow a Children’s Bible or graphic novel Bible.
Nursery care is available from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, staffed by trained caregivers.
The Calm Room is available to anyone who needs a quieter space during worship. The service plays on a livestream there.
Ages 3 through kindergarten
Godly Play meets after the Children’s Time in the service, September through May, for Bible stories explored through storytelling, art, and creative play.
Grades 1 through 5
Children’s Sunday School meets after the Children’s Time on second, third, and fourth Sundays, September through May. During the summer, children worship with their family.
On the first Sunday of the month, children stay in worship with their families rather than going to Godly Play or Sunday School.
Explore the Grounds
FPCA's campus rewards a little wandering.
Down the hall from the Narthex, the Sacred Spaces Art Gallery features rotating exhibitions from artists in the extended community. Outside, an outdoor labyrinth offers a quiet space for prayer and reflection. Families will find playgrounds and open space for kids to run after the service. The turquoise table near the courtyard has become something of an unofficial gathering spot, especially on a beautiful Austin morning.
Before you leave, look for the Little Free Library out front, and check out the Puzzle Library and Toy Library in the office. Borrow something. Leave something. It’s that kind of place.
Accessibility
The Sanctuary has chairs rather than pews, which makes it easy to accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, and however you need to arrange yourself. Accessible restrooms are nearby, and accessible parking is available close to the entrance. If you’d like help finding a seat, a Holy Host will be glad to assist.
If you have specific needs and want to plan your arrival in advance, reach out to Cecile before your visit.
After Worship
Linger if you can.
The Narthex stays lively after the service ends, and it’s a natural place to meet people. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and find a comfortable seat.
At 11:15 am, adults are welcome to stay for classes in Bible study, topical discussion, or unstructured time on campus. On the first Sunday of each month, the learning hour becomes Fellowship on the First, a multigenerational meal open to everyone. Check the calendar for location details.
Questions You Might Already Be Wondering About
What should I wear?
Whatever is comfortable. Sunday mornings at FPCA look like everything from dressed-up to jeans, and nobody is paying attention either way.
Will I be put on the spot?
No. You won’t be asked to stand up, introduce yourself, or signal that you’re new in any way that draws attention to you. We do hope you will sign the attendance register when it is passed to you so that we know you were worshipping with us.
Do I have to take communion?
The table is open to all, but participation is always your choice. Simply stay in your seat and enjoy the music if you’d prefer not to receive communion.
Is this church actually inclusive?
Yes. FPCA is a More Light congregation and a member of the Covenant Network of Presbyterians. The full inclusion of LGBTQ+ people in the life and leadership of the church is not an asterisk here. It’s central to who we are.
What if I have a lot of questions about faith?
You’ll fit in well. Wondering out loud is part of the culture.
Stay Connected
Sign up for the Mesa Messenger, FPCA’s weekly e-newsletter, to stay in the loop on events, opportunities to serve, and ways to connect throughout the week.
If and when you’re ready to learn more about membership, New Member classes are offered throughout the year.
Cecile Shopen is your first point of contact for any of it.
