WORSHIP

Sunday morning is a very special time. We come together to praise and thank God for all He has done for us.  This public  gathering  is both to witness to the world that we believe that Jesus Christ was here on earth to teach us how to live according to God's  loving  will and also that we believe that through Jesus' sacrifice we will be reunited with God.

It is important to worship together.  The sacraments of baptism and Holy Communion, the sermons, the joyful offerings, the communal prayers and the fellowship help us to feel God's presence in our lives and to grow as Christians.  During the week we seriously try to practice what is preached through our conduct: prayers, word and deed.

As a "downtown" church, situated in the heart of Albany, NY, congregants come to worship here from within walking distance as well as from the suburbs and neighboring cities and towns. First Church ministers to this diverse congregation with a wonderful combination of traditional and contemporary programs, services, and opportunities, reaching out to people of all ages.

During the monthly communion service (following an old Dutch tradition) a center-aisle table is used by those who like to maintain this practice.

Easter and Christmas services draw hundreds to enjoy the inspiring music and worship together in a warm and welcoming place. We have a "drive-in" service available during the summer months. Worship services are supported and enriched by a music program that fills our hearts and souls with joy and gladness. This mix of old and new yields an unforgettable worship experience

Recordings of worship services are available here online for you, but please join us and experience our unique worship services first-hand.

Come for a visit, stay for a lifetime.

Music
The First Church choir offers music to support and enrich worship at regular Sunday and special services from September to June. Membership in the choir provides opportunities for musical growth and good fellowship. The senior choir rehearses Thursday evenings at 7:30 p.m. New singers are always welcome.

The First Church organ, recently renovated, fills the sanctuary with glorious sound. Special pre-service music is offered at 10:15 a.m. each Sunday during Advent and Lent.

An augmented festival choir, a youth choir, and a hand-bell choir provide special musical offerings several times during the year. Special concerts by the First Church choir and organist and by visiting soloists, organists, and ensembles bring music to the wider community.

Choral Selections -- January - June 2010 -- Peter Subers and Rose Hunsberbger, soloists

For more information about the choir, click here.

Prayers for Healing
People who desire prayers for themselves or others for physical, emotional or spiritual health, gather in James Chapel immediately following the regular worship service on the third Sunday of each month to share personal concerns and prayers. 

Drive-in Worship
During the summer months, we conduct an outdoor service in addition to our regular indoor service. Worshippers stay in their cars and the minister preaches from an outdoor pulpit. This half-hour service is popular both with families with children and the elderly as well as for those who may be new to church.