Our Mission,
Purpose & Values
OUR MISSION:
To open ourselves to God-seekers and to feed, nurture, and provide refuge for those in need.
OUR PURPOSE:
To build a community rooted in faith, fueled by compassion, and committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of those around us.
OUR VALUES:
Commitment, Community, Compassion, Diversity, Integrity, Joy, Lead, Learn, Love, Nurture, Pursuit of Faith, Social Consciousness.
Staff & Leadership
Meet Our Staff
Carol Jellema
Secretary
Heather Benedict
Financial Treasurer
Marcia Woodall
Choir Director
Wendy McNutt
Treasurer
Cynthia Nokland
Clerk of Session
Elders
John Nokland
Tom McNutt
Beth Maida
Deb Fagan
Cynthia Nokland
Joe Prior
Robin Long DeAngelo
Karla Ritter
Beth Hoeffner
Deacons
Joe Maida
Jillian Maida
Ben McNutt
Emil Pignetti
Marcia Woodall
Kim Hoeffner
Doug Hantush
Laura Aiello
Abby Nokland
Statement of Inclusion
At First Presbyterian Church of Montgomery, we believe every person is made in the image of God and deserves to be welcomed, seen, and valued. Whoever you are, wherever you've been, and whatever you're carrying, you are welcome here. We are a community of imperfect people drawn together by grace, committed to walking alongside one another through every season of life. We do not ask you to have it all figured out before you walk through our doors. We simply ask you to come as you are.
Congregational Overview
First Presbyterian Church of Montgomery is a Christ-centered congregation rooted in Reformed faith and committed to worship, community, and service. With a heart for both our local neighborhood and the wider world, we are a multigenerational church family that seeks to grow in faith together — welcoming all who are searching, belonging, and believing.
Committees
Our committees are the backbone of church life at First Presbyterian Church of Montgomery — dedicated teams of members who give their time and gifts to serve areas such as worship, outreach, finance, and pastoral care. Each committee plays a vital role in keeping our congregation thriving, ensuring that every ministry is supported, every need is met, and every voice has a place at the table.
Music at FPC Montgomery
Music at the First Presbyterian Church in Montgomery, NY features traditional hymns, choral anthems, and special instrumental performances. The service regularly incorporates musicians playing instruments like the flute and clarinet alongside the church organ, as well as occasional vocal and guitar arrangements to engage the community. The congregation centers its musical worship on a mix of classical and contemporary styles.
- Service Music: The offertory features rotating local instrumentalists — such as clarinetists, bassists, and flutists — collaborating with the church organist.
- Guest Performers: The church regularly welcomes vocal and instrumental soloists to enhance Sunday morning services.
- Livestream & Worship: You can watch recorded services, which frequently showcase these musical elements, on the First Presbyterian Church of Montgomery NY YouTube Channel.
Church History • Since 1832
Founded in 1832, First Presbyterian Church of Montgomery is one of the region's oldest congregations — a community that has weathered nearly two centuries of change while remaining a steady home of Reformed faith, grace, and gospel witness.
Generation after generation, this church has been a place where families are formed, faith is deepened, and the love of God endures.
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