about first presbyterian church of lewiston
Welcome to the First Presbyterian Church of Lewiston! We invite you to join us in giving thanks and praise to God at our Sunday worship services. We’re proud to serve the Lewiston and greater Niagara communities through worship, fellowship, teaching, and community outreach.
our history
As the oldest church in the village, First Presbyterian Church of Lewiston has a long and faithful history. Established as an official congregation on June 12, 1817, our first Communion was celebrated with just 11 members, growing to 26 by 1820 while Sunday School welcomed 75 children. The first brick of our church was laid in 1830, with services held in the completed building by 1835, and after purchasing the property in 1839, the congregation demonstrated remarkable faith by repurchasing it for $101 following financial hardship.
With support from the Holland Land Company between 1846 and 1848, the church expanded to include its iconic cupola, Doric columns, and a new organ, and in 1906 a basement was added for Sunday School and gatherings.
From these humble beginnings, several neighboring Presbyterian churches—including those in Niagara Falls, Youngstown, and Lockport—grew out of our early ministry. In more recent years, a larger sanctuary was built in 1965, our Nursery School/Pre-K opened in 1966, and in 1982 we founded HART (Home Assistance Referral Team) to serve seniors across Niagara County.
Our church has long been a gathering place for the wider community, hosting groups such as the Boy Scouts, AA, and the Red Cross. Today, we are blessed with two sanctuaries—the historic Old Stone Church, used in spring and fall, and a newer air-conditioned space for summer worship—as we continue to be a welcoming, caring congregation with deep roots and open hearts, committed for more than 200 years to worshiping God, growing in faith, and serving others in Christ’s name.
Who We Are
First Presbyterian Church of Lewiston is a welcoming, family-centered congregation rooted in faith, community, and service. Since 1817, we have gathered in the heart of Lewiston for worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth, continuing a long tradition of sharing God’s love with our community.
We gather for traditional Protestant worship every Sunday at 11:15 AM and are committed to creating meaningful opportunities for people of all ages to grow in faith together. Our growing Children’s Ministry offers a caring and engaging environment where children and families can learn about God’s love through Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, family activities, and special events throughout the year. We are passionate about supporting families and helping children build a strong foundation of faith in a welcoming and joyful community.
Beyond Sunday mornings, First Presbyterian Church of Lewiston remains active throughout Lewiston and Niagara County through partnerships with local organizations, outreach efforts, and ministries that serve our neighbors with compassion and care.
First Presbyterian Church of Lewiston is an affirming church and a member of the Presbyterian Church (USA).
What We Believe
Statement on Welcome and Inclusion
“Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” – Romans 15:7
At First Presbyterian Church of Lewiston, we believe all people are created in the image of God and are welcomed as full participants in the life of our congregation. We celebrate the diversity of God’s creation and strive to be a community rooted in grace, compassion, and belonging.
We welcome people of all ages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, marital statuses, abilities, ethnic backgrounds, and economic circumstances. Whoever you are and wherever you are on your journey, you are welcome here.
As a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (USA), we are committed to growing together in faith, love, and service as we seek to follow Christ in our community and beyond.
Pastor’s Welcome
It is a joy to welcome you to First Presbyterian Church of Lewiston. I am deeply grateful for the faithful staff, volunteers, and visiting clergy who care for this congregation and help sustain its life and ministry.
At First Pres, we are a community committed to growing in faith together—through worship, learning, and meaningful connection. Whether through Sunday services, our Book Club, or everyday moments of fellowship, we seek to deepen our understanding of Scripture and live out our faith in practical ways.
No matter where you are on your faith journey, you are welcome here. I look forward to worshiping, learning, and growing together in the days ahead.
Grace and peace,
Rev. Carly Beard