Once upon a time, University Presbyterian Church began with a simple need. Several local residents decided to start UPC. They wanted to serve as a place of faith for university students. It would also be for faculty, staff, and neighbors.
University Presbyterian Church was founded in 1908. The University of Washington decided to move its campus. The new location was northeast of Lake Union. This sparked the church’s creation.
Initially, the congregation met in Sherrick Hall. It was on the University campus. In 1912, University Presbyterian Church dedicated its new sanctuary. The wooden building stood on 47th Street. It was just a block north of UW.
After World War I, the church grew quickly. Membership swelled to 4000. Today, University Presbyterian Church’s mission remains. It aims to be a center for Christian faith development. It invites people in and sends them out. They spread the good news into the world.
University Presbyterian Church connects people. It helps them grow in faith. They serve in Jesus’ name. The church has ministries for the mentally ill. It also serves homeless teens and those in prison.
University Presbyterian Church was a pioneer. It sent short-term mission teams overseas. As of 2021, the church has 2434 members. Weekly attendance is about 800.
George Hinman became senior pastor in 2008. He loves the Pacific Northwest. Hinman served with Cru in New England. He was also a chaplain at M.I.T. Before that, he was a pastor at Bel Air Presbyterian Church in L.A.
University Presbyterian Church has a global culture. It opens its lives to the world. The church values living as a family. Members share life together in circles of community.
The good news of Jesus transforms lives at University Presbyterian Church. The church is sent for others. It is here for people beyond themselves. They grow with students together.
The current organ was completed in 1999. The Reuter Organ was built in Lawrence, Kansas. It has great and tender sound. Tears still well up when people hear its subtlety and grandeur.
University Presbyterian Church’s location is strategic. It sits in a vibrant area for medicine. High-tech, bio-tech, and entrepreneurship thrive here. You can hear University Presbyterian Church on KCIS Radio 630. Services air Sundays at 10 am and 7:55 pm. University Presbyterian Church continues to serve its community.