How about a tale of a steeple that defied perfection? Welcome to Falls Church Presbyterian Church. This church stands as a testament to faith. It is a place where imperfections become part of a divine narrative.
Falls Church Presbyterian Church started as a small gathering. In 1846, Presbyterians traveled to Lewinsville Presbyterian Church. By 1848, they began holding services in their homes. The pastor from Lewinsville would preach.
By the 1850s, the group outgrew homes. They moved to the local schoolhouse. Even that became too small. Dr. Samuel Groot built a community hall. It housed the Presbyterians and the local Baptists. This hall was named Groot Hall.
During the Civil War, services stopped. Groot Hall became a hospital. In 1866, the Presbyterian congregation bought Groot Hall. By 1873, they became an independent congregation.
Ella Belz described those early members. Ladies in bonnets and shawls walked carefully. They held their gowns above the frozen ground. Gentlemen joined them after stabling their horses.
Falls Church Presbyterian Church later helped start another church. This was Ballston Presbyterian Church. It is now First Presbyterian Church of Arlington. In 1884, the congregation built a stone building. They hoped it would inspire thoughts of God.
Now, about that steeple. It was built of wood on a Friday. The plan was to cover it with slate on Monday. Rain fell over the weekend. The green wood warped as it dried. Repairs were too expensive. So, they covered the misshapen steeple as it was. Today, it is covered in copper.
The “twisted steeple” remains. Despite its flaws, it points people to God. Falls Church Presbyterian Church embraces imperfections. It trusts that with God, we are enough.
Today, Falls Church Presbyterian Church continues its mission. It welcomes all. The church gathers those who feel inadequate. Here, they experience grace and renewal. Falls Church Presbyterian Church is a place of rest. It’s a church for recovering perfectionists.
The church offers worship services every Sunday. Communion is celebrated on the first Sunday of each month. Child care is available. Traditional hymns fill the sanctuary.
Spiritual growth opportunities abound. There are Sunday morning classes. Presbyterian Women’s Circles meet monthly. Tuesday Centering Prayer is offered. A Saturday Bible Study meets for fellowship.
Falls Church Presbyterian Church seeks justice for all. It welcomes LGBTQ+ persons. Everyone is invited to use the restroom where they feel comfortable.
Whether you’re dressed in your Sunday best or jeans, you are welcome. Falls Church Presbyterian Church is located on Broad Street. It is easily accessible by car or bus.
As you leave Falls Church Presbyterian Church, remember the twisted steeple. Remember that imperfections can be beautiful. Remember that with God, you are enough.