Why does church membership matter?

Church membership is an expression of our commitment to God and our faith. If you have been visiting and considering whether First Presbyterian Spartanburg is a fit for you, we encourage you to engage in the life of the church, including participating in Sunday worship, exploring various ministries, and attending classes or events. Our Visitor and New Member Coordinator, Cathy Bagwell, is available to help get you connected.

Joining Process at First Presbyterian Church

To join First Presbyterian Church, you are invited to meet with members of the Session on our monthly joining day. This will be a brief (around 15-minute) meeting that includes having your photo taken for your member access card and collectively answering the Vows of Membership questions. Before the meeting, Cathy Bagwell will send you a link to fill out a general information form that will be used for your member record in ShelbyNext, our church management system. Please let Cathy know you plan to attend so the form may be filled out prior to the joining day meeting. 

 

Join FPC on Easter Morning!

In the ancient church, people would often be baptized and officially join the church on Easter morning. Following in that tradition, we are inviting all those interested in joining First Presbyterian to consider doing so on Easter morning, April 20 at 10:30am in the Parlor. We would love to have you add your gifts, energy, and love to the body of Christ that is FPC! Please contact Cathy Bagwell if you are interested in joining the church that day.

Email Cathy Bagwell

Frequently Asked Membership Questions

Who can join First Presbyterian Church?

Anyone who has been baptized.

Does it matter that I was baptized in another church denomination?

The PC(USA) believes that individuals baptized in other Christian denominations are a part of one body of Christian believers and therefore recognizes their baptism as valid.

What if I have not been baptized?

The Presbyterian Church baptizes people of all ages. You may contact Cathy Bagwell to discuss and schedule a baptism date.

What are the ways to join?

  • Profession of Faith – You are being baptized.
  • Transfer of Letter – You are an active member on the rolls of another church. Our church sends a letter informing this church you have joined FPC.
  • Reaffirmation of Faith – You have been baptized, but are not an active member of a congregation.

Do I have to take a class to join?

We offer Discover FPC three times a year. These classes are an opportunity to learn about the denomination and First Presbyterian Church Spartanburg. The class is not required to become a member and can be taken before or after membership. 

What is the process on joining day?

  • A completed General Information Form is required. Cathy Bagwell will send you a link to fill out the form upon letting her know you would like to attend the meeting on joining day.
  • A photo will be taken for your church key card. This enables access to the church when doors are locked and the church gym.
  • A meeting with Session, (comprised of Elders) the governing body of our church. The moderator (a Pastor) will ask the Vows of Membership questions to those wishing to join the church. These are answered in the affirmative as a group. The questions are:
    • Do you confess your faith in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ His only Son our Lord, and do you promise with the aid of the Holy Spirit to be Christ’s faithful disciple to your life’s end?
    • Do you confirm the vows made in your Baptism and with a humble and contrite heart put your whole trust in the mercy of God, which is in Jesus Christ our Lord?
    • Do you promise to make diligent use of the means of grace, to share faithfully in the worship and service of the Church, to give of your substance as the Lord may prosper you, and to give your whole heart to the service of Christ and His kingdom throughout the world? 

Discover FPC

Discover FPC classes are offered for visitors and new members to learn more and ask questions about First Presbyterian Church, our values, mission, and programs.

These classes are open to anyone and provide an opportunity to learn about our church and the denomination. Attending Discover FPC is not necessary to join!

2025 Discover FPC Dates

A series of three classes on Sunday mornings from 10:00-10:45am in the Large Private Dining Room (Family Life Center)

  • January 12, 19 and 26
  • May 18, following 11:00am worship until 1:30pm (lunch will be served)
  • September 14, 21, and 28

Contact Cathy Bagwell, Visitor and New Member Coordinator, if you have any questions and if you plan to attend.