Our History

 “A Light in Austin Since 1850” has been our spiritual goal as well as our historical reality. Although the actual buildings and locations have changed over the years, what hasn’t changed is FPC’s commitment to live--and to invite others to live--a thoughtful, heart-felt authentic faith.

FPC has always sought to be a leader in social and personal transformation. During the American Civil War FPC aligned with the Northern Presbyterian Church while every other Texas Presbyterian Church aligned with the Southern Presbyterian Church.

After the Civil War, Pastor E.B. Wright established FPC as a place of reconciliation and grace, as FPC encouraged former enemies to ask for God’s blessings, and for one another’s forgiveness. North/South, Former Slaves/Former Slaveholders, People of Faith/People of Doubt—all joined together to seek out a better way of life and service.

The desire to be a place of reconciliation and grace, of acceptance and inclusion, continued throughout FPC’s history, and continues to this day. Men and Women, Gay and Straight members all serve equally in church leadership. (Even Youth share in important leadership roles.)

In addition to radical grace, FPC has brought from its past literal pieces of its history, our beautiful stained glass windows. Set in a spacious contemporary sanctuary, each Sunday they preach powerful sermons—about bright light manifesting in many colors, about profound tradition prompting a progressive faith.

View a Complete History.

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