Our Story

First United Presbyterian Church (initially First Presbyterian Church) has been a vital member of the downtown Granite City community since 1906.  We began worshiping in the Old Kinderhook School building until land had been purchased and the first segment of the church building was erected at 2160 Delmar in Granite City, where we have been located since 1916.  

First United Presbyterian is an open, welcoming, and tight-knit faith community fully embracing the concept of being a “Matthew 25” church.  We have survived many trying times, including a fire in 1994, and times of contraction and growth, which include merging with Mitchell Presbyterian Church in 1998 and United Presbyterian Church (formerly Nameoki Presbyterian Church) in 2012 (at which time our name changed to First United Presbyterian Church).  Throughout these times we have embraced and tried to live our mission statement, “in the community for Christ”, serving those with the most need in our community.

We have a long history of embracing music and performing arts and incorporating these into our services and mission.  We host a youth drama camp during the summer, sponsor a concert series throughout the year featuring various types of performances, and have, since our restoration post-fire in 1994, featured one of the best organs in the region, masterfully played each week by our talented organist Jack Jenkins, that fills our sanctuary with uplifting spiritual music.

We continue to “be in the community for Christ” and allow his mighty wind to fill our sails and lead our ministry to where it is needed.  Come aboard our boat and sail with us on our journey!