Membership

Welcome to First Presbyterian Church. Are you interested in learning more about First Church? "Discovering First Church" events are hosted periodically on Sunday afternoons to allow visitors the opportunity to get to know more about our church in a casual small group setting over a light lunch. If you would like to attend an upcoming "Discovering First Church," or if you simply have questions about our church and its myriad programs, please contact our Evangelism Team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call Pastor Mickle at 703-527-4766, ext. 12.

We ask anyone interested in joining First Presbyterian Church to attend a "Discovering First Church" luncheon. These are not only for those who have made up their minds, but also for those who want to learn more about us and our beliefs.

What is Baptism?

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them
in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.
And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20)

The Presbyterian Church recognizes two sacraments, baptism and communion. The Sacrament of Baptism is the foundational recognition of Christian commitment. In baptism a person becomes a member of the Church of Jesus Christ. Baptism reminds us of the power of God’s love, and so provides a source of spiritual strength every day. The Presbyterian Church is ecumenical and recognizes baptisms of other Christian churches. You need be baptized only once, whether as a child or as an adult.

During baptism a person:

• Professes faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior
• Renounces evil and affirms reliance on God's grace
• Declares his or her intention to participate actively and responsibly in the worship and mission of the church

When a child is being baptized, the parents make these statements for their child and declare their intention to provide for Christian nurture of that child. An adult being baptized makes these statements for him or her self.

Information on the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)

There are many sources of information on the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Information available on the Internet includes:

• www.pcusa.org > The official site of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) 
• www.thepresbytery.org > The National Capital Presbytery is the local middle governing council of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) for Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and part of Maryland.
• www.reformed.org > The Center for Reformed Theology and Apologetics (CRTA) is dedicated to providing biblically sound online resources for the edification of God's people. 
• www.covenantnetwork.org > A broad-based, national group of Presbyterian clergy and lay leaders working for a church that is simultaneously faithful, just, and whole.

You may also speak with Rev. Mickle.