It all began in 1886 when a small band of dedicated charter members dreamed of a Presbyterian Church in Winter Haven. Over the next 130 years, these faithful few were joined by other disciples of Jesus Christ, and First Presbyterian emerged as a vibrant church where mission and ministry abound.

In 1892, the first permanent church building was completed. By 1926, with the construction of our beautiful sanctuary, the members moved a few blocks north to the current church property.

Over the years, ministry has been enhanced by the expansion of members, staff and facilities. In 1966, a Christian Education Building was constructed just north of the sanctuary building. Since then, a Girl Scout House was attached to the Boy Scout House that has been hosting Troop 121 since 1928. In the past two decades, the church expanded ministry opportunities with a community service and recreation facility at the northeast corner of the church property, and a student center at 711 Sixth Street NW that houses the Middle School and Senior High Youth Ministry.

Our church’s Christ-centered ministry is ably led by fifteen elders, fifteen deacons, pastoral, program and support staff members, as well as scores of volunteers.

First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven is a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (USA), with a strong history of service to God in the local community, the Presbytery of Tampa Bay and around the world. We are proud of our heritage and anxious to engage disciples of all ages in ministry each and every day in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.