Welcome to First Church! We're so glad you're here.
We want you to feel comfortable visiting as a first-time guest, so we have put together some tips and information about what you can expect when visiting us.
How do I get there?
First Church is located at 113 Good Shepherd Rd in Altoona, PA – just down the road from the Penn State Altoona campus.
We have two main parking lots. The lower lot along Juniata Gap Road provides easy access to the basement level and the children’s classroom wing via the gymnasium entrance. (You may reach the main level using stairs or the elevator after passing through the gym). The upper lot enters from Good Shepherd Rd and it provides direct access to the main entrance and the worship area.
113 Good Shepherd Rd
Altoona, PA 16601
What's Sunday Like?
We hold two worship services every Sunday. The first service is held at 9:00am and contains traditional hymns. The second service is held at 11:00am and features contemporary worship. All the other elements of service are the same across the two gatherings. Each service is about an hour long. We suggest you arrive a few minutes early just to find a space and get into the building.
The teaching consists of Biblically-based messages, which are the same at each of the services. We generally consider a theme or series that covers a few weeks at a time.
What is there for my kids?
We value kids at First Church, and we offer a number of opportunities for children of all ages.
For the smallest children under 3, we provide a fully-staffed nursery, where you and your infant will be provided with a matching number that will be used to ensure that your child will only be released to you. The same number also will be used, by appearing on screens in the main worship area, to notify you if your child or the staff need you for any reason.
For older kids, there are various classes available from 10:00-11:00 (The Middle Hour), all grouped by age. Junior and senior high school students generally worship with us in the main worship area during the 11:00 service.
Do you serve communion?
Communion is celebrated every Sunday, following worship time. Individually wrapped wafers and juice are available as you enter the sanctuary.
What if I have other questions?
Call us during regular business hours at (814) 942-2480, or contact us here and someone will get back to you shortly!