First Thoughts Blog Archives - First Presbyterian Church

Person wearing red sneakers walking upstairs on blue metal stairs with a grated railing, viewed from the side at foot level.

Upstairs, Downstairs and Out There

As I write, important ministry is going on above me, below me and around me. Downstairs. Grandson Caleb has moved on to “big school,” but Evie still attends our church…

Close-up of a stained glass window at First Presbyterian Baton Rouge, featuring blue, green, and purple geometric shapes divided by black metal lines.

Savoring the Season of Life

One of our members was in New Zealand for Easter. Down under, the season was fall. Instead of spring flowers, autumn leaves decorated the Easter cross. While we start to swelter,…

In the Season of Ascension at First Presbyterian Church

I’m still basking in the wonderful Lent and Easter we had together. I’m filled with gratitude for all the interaction we had over Golden Threads. So many conversations as you…

A colorful, stylized painting of First Presbyterian Baton Rouge with arched windows and a decorative façade, surrounded by trees.

Religion in the Early Days of Baton Rouge

Last month, we talked about the early missionaries of the late 17th century who ministered in what was called the Mississippi Valley. Now we shift our attention to what was happening…

A man in a gray suit and a woman in black stand smiling, feeling it’s a privilege to serve, in a warmly lit living room with vintage decor.

What a Privilege to Serve at First Presbyterian Church

As I write this letter, my heart is filled with gratitude, humility, and a deep sense of awe for the journey we have shared over the past 26 years together….

Celebrating 200 Years of First Presbyterian Church, Part 1

As we think about celebrating First Presbyterian Church’s two hundred years, let’s begin by looking back to see how far we have come. This begins a series of looking back…

Two large fireworks with orange and blue streaks explode above the roof of First Presbyterian Baton Rouge, lighting up the night sky.

Is This Sci-Fi? Growing in Christ in the New Year

2025! Sounds like a song from the 60’s about a far distant dystopian future. Shouldn’t we all be riding in sky cars like on the Jetsons cartoon? And how is the…

Stained glass window with geometric shapes and patterns at First Presbyterian Baton Rouge, overlaid with "Season of Memories and Hope.

Advent: A Season of Memories and Hopes

At the close of the year, we welcome the loosening of heat’s grip (at last) and the pleasantness of our town in these months. We also start thinking about Thanksgiving…