Cartersville First Presbyterian Church

The vision of Cartersville First Presbyterian Church is to be a congregation that shines forth the light and love of Jesus Christ in our community and world.

Our church was organized in 1843, and for many decades served its members as place of worship. Women’s Circles, men’s fellowship, Vacation Bible School and Sunday School have all used this space. Long term members observed our gradual unfolding mission to community involvement. Our ministries grew to include organizing the community church shop, participating in Meals on Wheels and serving the needs of the homeless at the Good Neighbor Shelter. It came to reality through the vision and work of our member, Janet Strange. With the rising need for early children’s education, our church began its preschool in the 1960′s. In 1986 a fire destroyed our educational wing, fellowship hall and kitchen. Our members, under the guidance of Rev. Steve Bacon, rebuilt this space with larger rooms. At this time a more adequate kitchen and fellowship hall were added. During the tenure of Dr. Tom Lewis, our community service included Friendship Table meals once a week for community people hungry for food, comfort and cheer. Even on Christmas Day this ministry continues indicating the dedication of our members to meet an ever increasing need in our community.

With increasing need, our preschool program grows yearly and has developed an extended afternoon program also. In 2003 our leaders established, volunteered and financed an after school program for young children needing mentoring, food, and homework assistance three days a week.

In 2005 our members shouldered the huge project of building a three story addition which provides room for children and youth ministries, community meetings, and for our new third worship opportunity in a less traditional setting. Our 600 members now find space and programs for fellowship meals, bible study, and support groups for all ages. Our active youth and children’s programs are under the leadership of Miss Ellen Sanders. Our large adult, youth and children’s choirs as well as music leadership for three worship services are directed by Mr. Rick Gomez.

Our mission ministries have included two trips to Juarez, Mexico with Pasos de Fe border ministry , as Todd and Tricia Reinschmidt were serving there. The next two trips were to Gulfport, Mississippi where 20 members spent a week helping rebuild homes and encouraged victims of Katrina. In 2008 some Euharlee and Rockmart members joined us in continuing this ministry. Rockmart Presbyterian Church minister Rev. Maryellen Hittel is a former member of Cartersville First Presbyterian Church.

The congregation has a sister-church relationship with Euharlee and a working interest in Cherokee Retreat Center. As a large church in Cherokee Presbytery, Cartersville is represented on its council, committees and Presbyterian Women’s coordinating teams. The Presbytery offices are located on the second floor of our church’s main building.

Our church has a strong desire to be a church family. Besides our vision to serve others, we strive to serve and care for our own members in a Christ like way of concern, assistance and prayer. We continue to be inspired by God through the preaching of God’s word and the ministry of our Pastor Rev. Ted Smith and our Associate Pastor Rev. Julie Jensen. We give thanks to God!