About FPC

Although there are records of Presbyterian activity in Pitt County dating from 1755, serious efforts to organize a church began in 1887. The First Presbyterian Church of Greenville (FPC) was formally organized on May 11, 1891 with seven charter members. The first pastor was Rev. J.N.H. Summerell. The first full-time pastor, Rev. F.G. Hartman, was called in 1903. FPC moved to its first building, at Greene and Dickinson, in 1897, and to W. Fifth and Pitt Streets in 1928.

Long-time pastors included Dr. R.S. Boyd from 1939-1947, Rev. Leonard W. Topping from 1947-1957, Rev. Richard R. Gammon from 1958-1985, Rev. Dan Wilkers from 1986 (installed March 1)-1994, and Rev. John Stringer from 1996-2001. The most recent interim minister was Rev. James Holderness from 2001-2003. The church staff has included associate ministers since the 1960s.

Both women and men have held church office since 1964. The church has had several female clergy starting in 1987.

FPC has helped establish several local Presbyterian churches. East Carolina Teachers’ Training School (now East Carolina University) opened in 1907, and FPC has worked with ECU students since at least the 1950s. FPC has an annual yard sale, Mayfest for Missions. FPC has a Stephen Ministry. Many local nonprofit groups including Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) regularly meet in the church.

The congregation moved to its present building at Fourteenth and Elm, near ECU, in 1971. This building has been remodeled several times. The church’s design is rich in symbolism. The front is like the prow (front) of a ship – an ancient symbol of the church in mission. Under the Celtic cross atop the tower are the symbols of the Gospel writers: lion (Matthew), ox (Mark), face of man (Luke), and flying eagle (John). They also represent the four living creatures of Revelation 4:6-8. The interior simplicity suggests the simple life of our Lord. The right window’s theme is the Promise – the Old Testament promise to Abraham, Israel, and eventually all nations; only a little light breaks through. The left window’s theme is the New Testament – the fulfillment of the Promise in Jesus Christ; it allows more light through.

Ministerial staff: Dr. William K. Neely became Pastor (Head of Staff) in 2003 and became co-pastor in 2004. After serving in several interim FPC positions, Dr. Wanda S. Neely became co-pastor in 2004. Associate Pastor for Campus Ministry and Missions Rev. Kerri M. Hefner came in 2005.

Other professional staff: William M. Wood is Director of Music. Dr. Sung Hee Chang is the part-time Director of Christian Education.