First Presbyterian Church (Everett, Washington)

First Presbyterian Church (Everett, Washington) is a historic Presbyterian Church (USA) congregation located in downtown Everett. Founded during the city's early boom period, the church has been a continuous presence in Snohomish County for over a century. Its Gothic Revival building on Rockefeller Avenue is a recognized local landmark, and the congregation is known for its extensive community outreach and social justice ministries.

History

The congregation was formally organized in 1892, just two years after the founding of Everett itself by eastern industrialists including Charles L. Colby and Henry Hewitt Jr.. Early services were held in a schoolhouse before the first dedicated church building was constructed at the corner of Hewitt Avenue and Oakes Avenue. As the city grew rapidly due to the timber industry and industrial development, the congregation relocated to its current, larger site in 1910. The church has witnessed and participated in major events in Washington history, from the Everett massacre of 1916 to the economic shifts of the late 20th century, consistently maintaining its mission through periods of both prosperity and challenge.

Architecture

The current sanctuary, completed in 1910, is a prime example of Gothic Revival architecture in the Pacific Northwest. It features a distinctive square bell tower with crenellations, pointed-arch stained glass windows, and a vaulted wooden ceiling. The interior retains many original features, including the carved oak pulpit and communion table. Significant stained glass windows, some created by the renowned Povey Brothers Glass Company of Portland, Oregon, depict biblical scenes and were dedicated by early prominent families of Everett. The structure's enduring design and craftsmanship have made it a subject of study for local historians and architects.

Community involvement

The church operates a robust food bank serving Snohomish County, and hosts a weekly Community Dinner open to all residents. It is a founding partner of the Interfaith Association of Northwest Washington, collaborating with other faith groups on issues of homelessness and poverty. The congregation actively supports the work of local nonprofits like the Volunteers of America and the Everett Public Schools foundation. Its social justice committee engages in advocacy on regional and national issues, often in partnership with the Presbytery of North Puget Sound and the national denomination.

Notable events

In 1916, the church provided refuge and aid following the violent waterfront confrontation known as the Everett massacre. During the Great Depression, its facilities were used as a soup kitchen and relief center. The sanctuary hosted a memorial service for the victims of the 2014 Oso mudslide, drawing regional leaders and first responders. It has also been a venue for significant civic gatherings, including forums featuring Washington politicians like former Senator Henry M. Jackson and gubernatorial candidate Christine Gregoire. The church's centennial celebration in 1992 included a special service with the Moderator of the General Assembly.

Clergy and leadership

The founding pastor was Rev. John H. D. Gray, who served from 1892 to 1898. A notable long-tenured minister was Rev. Dr. Robert M. Hurlbut, who led the congregation for over three decades during the mid-20th century and was active in the Presbytery of Seattle. The current senior pastor is Rev. Dr. James B. Johnson, who previously served at First Presbyterian Church (Bellingham, Washington). Throughout its history, the church has been served by a succession of dedicated associate pastors, educators, and musicians, contributing to the broader life of the Presbyterian Church (USA) in the Pacific Northwest.

Category:Churches in Washington (state) Category:Presbyterian Church (USA) churches in Washington (state) Category:Buildings and structures in Everett, Washington Category:Gothic Revival church buildings in Washington (state)