Organized in 1886, the First Presbyterian is the oldest congregation of its kind within the bounds of what was originally known as the Village of Braidentown. Its current sanctuary, a Spanish Mission-style building dedicated in 1951, sits at the corner of Manatee Avenue West and 15th Street. The Rev. Mark Jernigan and Rev. Wayne Blaser lead the congregation. There is handicapped parking behind the church and a large lot across 15th Street. The church also hosts Sunday school, informal worship and other services.
Kirkwood Presbyterian hosts Sunday school classes for children and adults and bible studie. It also serves as a meeting place for such groups as Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Anon, Ala-Teen, Crafty Ladies, Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, a youth group and more. Church members have established a Good Samaritan Fund for those in need and take part in local and global missions. There are also several choirs, and the church hosts a concert series.
An Evangelical Covenant Church, Faith Covenant meets every Sunday at 10am for services. In addition to its services, Faith Covenant also offers youth group and Bible study programs during the week. Members also meet for Sunday picnics and other activities, including softball games, as well as practice groups for diverse activities such as singing.
This historic Catholic church has been serving the St. Petersburg community for more than 80 years. It offers masses daily and three times on Sunday. St. Mary also provides wedding, funeral, baptism, confirmation and reconciliation classes and services.
Palma Ceia United Methodist Church is rich in community and service. It offers Bible study and service opportunities for adults, thriving children and youth ministries, and a new Special Needs Ministry. For more information visit the church website.
CrossPointe Fellowship Church offers a variety of ways for all members of the family to get involved. Programs include women's group, vacation Bible school, youth group, mission trips and various other service opportunities.
The Hyde Park United Methodist Church is a warm and welcoming congregation. It offers study groups and is active in the community. Child care services are available during services.
New Testament Baptist Church was established in 1961 and is led by Senior Pastor Matthew Trill. The church offers a variety of ministries, including Sunday and Wednesday services, Bible studies, children and youth ministries, and groups for singles, ladies, men and seniors. Visitors and members can partake in a variety of activities organized throughout the week, which include various forms of fellowship.
The main entrance of Apostles Lutheran Church & Preschool is from the parking lot in the rear, accessible from E. Morgan Street. Just off the parking lot is a courtyard with a gazebo and a meditation garden is located between 2 classroom buildings. Additional parking is available in a dirt lot in the front off of Kingsway with a sidewalk beside the sanctuary leading to the entrance in the rear.
A traditional worship service is held at 9am followed by contemporary service at 10:30am on Sunday mornings. Children's church coinsides with both services and nursery is available from 8:45am - 12noon for preschool aged children. The Fellowship Coffee Cafe is open during Sunday mornings.
There are several study groups and children and family programs. Music programs include a hand bell choir and children's choir.
The preschool operates during the week.
Our Lady of the Rosary is a large catholic church on Collier Parkway in Land O Lakes. The grounds are massive, and include two chapels and a children's day care. The well-manicured exterior gives way to the same within. Large ceilings typical of churches are found throughout the building.
North Bay Community Church defines the word community church as "an inclusive, ecumenical congregation that grows out of the hopes, needs and aspirations of the community." The basic beliefs of the church and more informational brochures can be picked up outside the church in the information center.
North Bay Church Christian Academy provides classes for ages two to five either full-time or part-time. Special events during the Christmas season are often scheduled. The North Bay Community Church Youth Group is helping to recycle within the community.
The beautiful rock walls combine with the creme orange colored walls to accent the many, many stained glass windows. A happy garden thrives out front of the property and if you come at the right time of the year, a single yellow rose plant can be seen in full bloom sitting in the center of it all, which seems to illuminate the front of the church.
Set on a sprawling campus, the Sarasota Baptist Church provides a variety of offerings for community members, including regular services, Bible study, choir, orchestra and ministries for all ages. Sarasota Baptist provides a Parent's Morning daycare program from Tuesday through Thursday. It also hosts a dinner every Wednesday: $5 for individuals, maximum of $14 for an entire family, regardless of size.
Sarasota Baptist Church maintains a second campus with a worship center in Lakewood Ranch.