ministering in this community since:
1838
…and we continue to grow and renew as our community around us grows and changes. We have a rich history of active mission giving, especially providing assistance to our local neighbors in need.
Our mission is commitment as a multi-generational congregation to serve God joyfully by sharing His love with the community and every person who enters its doors. This includes active mission giving to assist local neighbors in need, providing opportunities for faith growth, service to others, meaningful worship, and fellowship, all aimed at connecting people and helping them discover abundant life through Jesus Christ.
1838-2025: A Glance at the Past Celebrating 187 Years of Worship
There were 19 charter members—most were settlers from Pennsylvania and New York.
- 1838: The First Presbyterian Church was organized on August 12. Worship services were held in homes or the schoolhouse.
- 1849: A wooden structure was built just south of the present church and dedicated on February 17.
- 1868: The cornerstone for a new church was laid. In 2022, it was located and opened (the fragments encased in the cornerstone are located in the archives). The structure was built at a cost of $30,000 (in 1868 money).
- 1870: The church was dedicated on May 11. The pews and pulpit are of solid oak and numbered with large numbers (the #1 pew is in the archives). The stained glass windows have emblems at the top of each. The three emblems are the open Bible, the cross, and the crown. Other windows: large $50, next size $25, $15 for the smallest. There are 29 windows in total, and all have their own pattern—no two are alike. The 1995 restoration project of the windows cost $77,355.
- 1881: A pipe organ was installed. After 103 years of service, it was replaced by the Klais organ purchased and dedicated on December 8, 1985.
- 1884: Our first church was repurposed to use for social and Sabbath school needs. It was sold and moved to a lot across from the current post office. It served as a skating rink, was enlarged, and became an opera house.
- 1967: The Church of Three Rivers and the First Presbyterian Church of Centreville combined their memberships to form Presbyterian Church of Three Rivers and Centreville.
About Our Transitional Pastor, Reverend Clint Cozier
Pastor Clint holds a PhD in Philosophy and Biblical Studies and has studied, and served, in a variety of places. He received his degrees from Trinity College of Jacksonville, Dallas Theological Seminary, and the University of Sheffield. He has been the pastor in multiple churches throughout Michigan and Oklahoma (where he was ordained) before moving to Nebraska. We’re happy to welcome him back to our wonderful state! He’s also excited to be back so close to Calvin College to utilize their resources. He has also served on the Presbyteries of Detroit, Lake Michigan, and Eastern Oklahoma. Pastor Clint brings a wealth of experience and knowledge. One of his formative experiences he discussed with us was from the Abbey of Gethsemani. In his work, he enjoys bringing out different ways of expressing faith.
Pastor Clint has also supported many non-profit organizations, including serving on the United Way Board. He has stated multiple times in multiple ways that he enjoys working with smaller organizations, and working to connect people and find ways to utilize resources for their benefit. He comes to us with many ideas for seeking our church’s true mission and ways that can work within our community. At his previous church there were many retired teachers, and he helped them utilize their skills to connect with the youth in their town after school. He also discussed a desire to meet with other local ministers and build connections across denominations in meaningful relationships. We’re looking forward to his ideas to help our church move forward through a mission study and our search for future leadership, while at the same time welcoming his gentle approach to pastoral care and being present in all the significant life events that occur daily within our church family.
Our Staff
- Transitional Pastor
Clint Cozier - Minister of Music
Michael Northrop - Pianist & Organist
Charles Collins - Administrative Assistant
Catherine Marcie
- Building Manager
Johann Northrop - Custodian
Melanie Bontrager - Wedding Coordinator
Catherine Marciel - Historian
Myrna Myers - UCAP Program Assistant
Carolyn McNary
- Deacons
Ann Robare
Jenny Thomas
Johann Northrop
Jane Campbell
Becky DeBoer
Jan Hoffmann
Janine Drake
Cindy Nelson
Jo Barton
Valarie Russell
Emilie Curtis
Mary Sue Pollitt
- Session Members
Pattie Bender
Dave Bode
Jan Michaels
Alyce Bode
Sue Jackson
Michael Northrop
Patrick Thomas
Sue Pazynski
Steve Manos/Karl Hoffman
Ann Hermen
Larry Hermen
Our Facility
Weddings
Funerals
Special Events
First Presbyterian Church is available to host weddings and other events for clubs, associations, and special events. Learn more
Other Information
United Community Assistance Program (UCAP)
Phone: 269.244.4599
Location: Inside FPC. Come to the Bennett Street entrance.
Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 9 a.m. – noon
Stone Cottage Free Store
Phone: 269.535.2786
Location: Corner of Bennett and West Streets
Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 9 a.m. – noon
