Who We Are:
One of the most often asked question about First Church is, “What kind of church is this?”
We are a diversified and welcoming family of believers who are deeply committed to ancient truths and principles.
The diversity of our community. Within our congregation, there are youth and senior adults. Young families with children. People of many nationalities. Within our congregation, you will find people from many different Christian traditions and many who have never had a prior church experience of any kind. We are determined to say, “Welcome!” to all whom Jesus also welcomes and receives!
Even our music is an example of the diversity of people who gather with us. We sing the great, traditional hymns of the church, but we also sing the more contemporary, informal choruses of today. More important to us than the mode of our music is the spirit of our music – we worship from the heart, in spirit and in truth.
The welcoming nature of our community. We strive to not be an exclusive or reclusive group of people. Everyone is welcome at First Church.
Our Church Family: The diversity of people groups that make up the current FCAF community is evidence that FCAF is not only a family church, but also a family to anyone who is seeking authentic relationships in a caring and nurturing community. FCAF is not defined by a building, but by the people who unite to worship Jesus Christ.
Our commitment to ancient truths and principles is reflected in….
Our devotion to Bible principles. We believe that the principles for life contained in the Bible, though ancient, have stood the test of time. Our commitment to following these principles has proven to be the source of the unparalleled satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy that characterizes our lives.
Our affiliation with an international fellowship of churches (Apostolic World Christian Fellowship, which is a community of over 170 Apostolic organizations). We do not desire to be an independent community. We are aligned with and in fellowship with many good sister churches and organizations. Apostolic’s trace our history back to the founding of the Christian Church and has demonstrated a track record of fidelity to Jesus, integrity, a commitment to Bible principles, and a passion for worldwide evangelism.
Our Vision:
Our vision is to see the whole community transformed by the love and hope of Jesus Christ.
Our Mission:
Our mission is to see people worshipping God passionately, witnessing to the world sensitively yet urgently, walking in the love and character of Jesus Himself, and working with the spiritual gifts the Holy Spirit gives to us.
Implementing the mission:
Provide relevant, effective communication of biblical principles to strengthen and grow healthy individuals and families.
Provide a safe, authentic, diverse and welcoming spiritual community to heal, nurture and support individuals, young families and established families in a secure environment.
Provide worship, teaching, and training in both large and small groups to cultivate spiritual growth and equip for ministry.
Partner with other Christ-centered churches and organizations in the Portland-Vancouver areas to reach out in unity with the hope and love that Jesus offers.
If you have any questions about First Church, please do not hesitate to call us at 503-925-8482 or send us an email. We would be very happy to make your acquaintance and answer any questions you might have!
