Finding Community in Santa Monica: Ministry, Meals and Family-Friendly Events at First Pres

At First Presbyterian Church of Santa Monica, community is built in many ways: through worship, shared meals, meaningful conversation, service, children’s programs, music, and simple moments of connection.

As summer begins to shift toward fall, August offers a natural opportunity to reconnect, meet new people, and learn more about the life of the church. For those who are new to First Pres, returning after time away, or looking for a deeper sense of community in Santa Monica, this is a welcoming season to get involved.

A Church Community Built Around Connection

Church life is about more than Sunday morning. Worship is central to who we are, but the life of a church community also grows through friendship, hospitality, shared service, and opportunities to gather throughout the week.

At First Pres, our hope is to create spaces where people of all ages can feel welcome, supported, and connected. From children and youth to adults, families, longtime members, and new visitors, there are many ways to take part in the life of the church.

Some people first connect through worship. Others come through a community event, a children’s program, a meal, a concert, or an opportunity to serve. However someone finds their way here, we hope First Pres can be a place where they feel invited into something meaningful.

Sharing Meals and Making Space for Conversation

Food has a simple way of bringing people together. A shared meal creates space for conversation, welcome, and connection in a way that feels natural and familiar.

This month, First Pres will gather for Open Table: An All-Church Fellowship Dinner & Fall Ministry Kickoff on Saturday, August 22 from 5:30–7:00 p.m. in the Ren Room and Courtyard. The evening will include a potluck meal, entertainment, conversation, information about upcoming events, special activities for kids, and Bingo with prizes for everyone.

It is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect as a church family, welcome new faces, and look ahead to the fall season together.

Shared meals are also an important part of how First Pres serves the wider Santa Monica community. Monthly community lunches, offered in partnership with The People Concern, help create a space of care, dignity, and hospitality for neighbors in our city. These gatherings are one example of how ministry can happen through something as simple and essential as sitting down together at a table.

Family-Friendly Events for Kids and Youth

First Pres is also a place where children and youth can grow, serve, and build friendships.

On Saturday, August 29 from 5:00–8:00 p.m., families are invited to take part in Kids Night Out. Children ages 3 years old through 5th grade can come to the church for an evening of food, games, art, and time with friends.

Middle and high school youth are invited to participate as well by helping out and earning service hours. It is a great way for older youth to support younger children, practice leadership, and stay connected to the church community.

Events like Kids Night Out help create a sense of belonging for children and families. They give kids a place to laugh, play, create, and build friendships while also giving youth opportunities to serve and take part in the life of the church in meaningful ways.

Looking Ahead to Fall at First Pres

August often feels like a bridge between seasons. Summer is still here, but school calendars, fall routines, and ministry programs are beginning to take shape.

At First Pres, this is a meaningful time to look ahead. Fall brings new opportunities for worship, fellowship, learning, service, and community engagement. It is also a good time for people who may be looking for a church in Santa Monica to explore what First Pres has to offer.

From Sunday worship to children’s programs, community meals, events, outreach, and opportunities to serve, there are many ways to get involved.

   

Explore Upcoming Events at First Pres

If you are looking for a welcoming church community in Santa Monica, we invite you to explore what is happening at First Pres this month and in the season ahead.

Visit our event calendar to learn more about upcoming gatherings, ministry opportunities, family-friendly events, and ways to connect with the First Pres community.

We would love to welcome you.