Social Justice and Mission

At First Church, we follow the call of the Presbyterian Church (USA) to “reveal God’s grace in places of suffering and need, to resist the forces that tyrannize, and to support the forces that restore the dignity of all.” The programs within our Social Justice and Mission Ministry are based on partnership, volunteer service and education. We contribute to partner organizations both financially and with hands-on volunteer service. This enables us to work with individuals who best know the needs of the communities and populations they serve. In turn, we are educated on important issues, enabling us to become advocates for change as we seek equity and justice in the world.

Our program areas of focus are: Cuba, Earth Care, Facing Racism, LGBTQ, and Refugees & Immigration. Within each program, volunteers meet in action groups, typically monthly, to organize service activities, consider themes for education and advocacy efforts, and provide discernment around community partnerships.

We also serve as the home of St. Joe’s Soup Kitchen, which provides meals to hungry New Yorkers every Saturday. Volunteer meal preparers and servers are welcome.

As a church located in Greenwich Village, we feel a strong connection to the arts. Through our Art at First program, we feature art exhibitions and events related to our social justice and mission focus.