Wonder how a small group of people can shape a community? Manassas Presbyterian Church began with just fourteen people. Let’s step back in time and uncover the story of this church.
Manassas Presbyterian Church started in 1867. Four men and ten women gathered. They met at Catherine Hornbaker’s home. They wanted to worship together. They declared themselves Manassas Presbyterian Church.
Reverend J. E. Nourse became their pastor. The Presbytery of the District of Columbia appointed him. The members first worshiped in homes. Later, they bought a lot. It was at the corner of Main and Church streets. An old government building stood there. For eight years, it served as their church and school.
In 1875, they built a brownstone church. This building served the congregation for over 100 years. In 1961, they added an education wing. Manassas Presbyterian Church started a kindergarten program in 1964. It has become the Early Learning Center.
By the 1970s, the congregation had outgrown the old building. The Presbytery bought a new site. It was on a hilltop on Ashton Avenue. In 1977, a new church building was erected. They moved the bell and stained glass from the old church. These were installed in the new building. The first service was held there in September 1977.
The church has seen many changes over the years. In 1870, the Presbytery of the District of Columbia merged. It joined with the northern part of the Presbytery of Potomac. Together they became the Presbytery of Washington City. In 1972, another change occurred. The presbyteries of Washington City and Potomac united. They formed The National Capital Union. This was part of a larger reunion. In 1984, they renamed it The National Capital Presbytery. This followed the reunion of two larger Presbyterian bodies.
In March 2020, Manassas Presbyterian Church added a new vestibule. It connects the sanctuary and education wing. This created a formal entry between the two spaces. The design matches the existing architecture. It uses the same materials and glazing pattern. The vaulted ceiling brings in natural light.
For over 150 years, Manassas Presbyterian Church has been a vital community hub. Its members have praised God. They have taught the faith to their children. They have served the community. They have supported each other. Today, the church has over 260 members. It offers inspiring worship and ongoing nurture.
Manassas Presbyterian Church embraces its history. It also looks forward to the future. It continues to grow. It welcomes all to join in its mission. It strives to reflect Christ’s love and mercy. The church worships as a diverse community. It engages in fellowship and service. It cares for each other. It seeks to understand and respond to needs. Manassas Presbyterian Church continues to discover who they are in Jesus Christ.