Our Goal
But it’s not just our physical spaces that make us who we are. It’s our people – the members and visitors who come together to worship, learn, and serve. We welcome all with open arms, regardless of where they are on their spiritual journey. Our goal is to create a safe and inclusive environment where everyone can feel supported and loved. So, whether you’re seeking a place to worship, a community to connect with, or a way to serve others, we invite you to join us at First Presbyterian Church. Together, we can continue to grow in faith and make a positive impact on the world around us.
Our People
Together, we can continue to grow in faith and make a positive impact on the world around us.
Jimmy Griffin
Pastor Jimmy, a native of South Carolina, grew up in the Presbyterian Church and was confirmed at age 12. During his formative years his family insured the development of strong roots in his faith, eventually leading to God’s call to ministry. As an adult his life’s journey and explorations, guided by God’s grace, also found him in the Baptist and Episcopal traditions. Through this the Spirit has developed in him a rich tapestry for mission and a heart for those still “seeking”. His leadership experiences along the way have included church and para-church Youth Ministry, Camp and Conference Center Ministry, College Ministry, and Pulpit Supply. After obtaining a Ph.D and completing a 15 year career in full-time University teaching he went on to receive a Master’s Degree in Mission and Discipleship from the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary (PCUSA). His passions include time with family, and time pursuing outdoor adventures.
Bob Baker
Bob Baker has been Director of Music and Associate Organist at First Presbyterian Church since June of 1999. He spent his early years in Lisbon, Ohio, where he graduated from David Anderson High School. He received a B.S. from Maryville College with a major in mathematics, as well as instruction in music as a member of the college’s Vesper Choir. For several years, Bob directed the Senior High Chorus at Second Presbyterian Church, Chattanooga, Tennessee. After receiving an advanced degree from the University of Chattanooga, he attended the University of Chicago as a Kellogg Fellow. While living in Nebraska, he completed the requirements for a Certificate in Church Organ from the School of Music, University of Nebraska. Bob served several years as a board member of the Nebraska Chapter of the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers. Since 1968 he has directed church adult and handbell choirs in Illinois, Nebraska and Georgia.
Jill Wright
Jill became the Office Manager at First Presbyterian Church in June of 2019. She lives in Windsor Park in the historic district of Brunswick. She enjoys interacting with church members and the creative parts of her job at First Presbyterian Church. She works in the morning at the church and as a Realtor the rest of the time. Caroline, her mother, lives with her. Jill is involved in 2 animal rescue groups, Coastal Animal Rescue Society and No Kill Glynn County and is on the Land Bank Authority for the City of Brunswick.
The Session of First Presbyterian Church:
The members of the Session are called ruling elders and are elected by the congregation and ordained to ministry. The members of the Session make decisions for the running of the local church and serve as spiritual leaders of the congregation. Each member of the Session has an area of responsibility. If you have any questions or concerns please reach out.
Sara Giannakakis
Karen Larrick
Tim Law
Lindsey Parker
Tom Sering
Our History
Welcome to First Presbyterian Church – a home for all those seeking a spiritual connection and a community of like-minded individuals. For over 150 years, our church has been a beacon of hope and faith for the Brunswick community. It all began in February 1867, when fifteen faithful individuals came together to organize the First Presbyterian Church. With God’s Spirit leading the way, these dedicated people worshiped in borrowed spaces, including the Methodist and Baptist Churches and the Old City Hall. But their faith never wavered, and after six years of meeting in these temporary locations, they built and dedicated our beautiful sanctuary in December of 1873. From there, our church continued to grow, both in numbers and in spirit. We added an annex to the Sanctuary in 1914 and an Education Building in the 1950s. Our chancel was also expanded, allowing us to better serve our congregation and community.