Lawrenceville Presbyterian Church

about Our Church

a history of

our church

In 1823, Fairview Presbyterian Church was built just two miles outside of Lawrenceville. From a beginning with 13 members, this church grew and prospered as a mission of Hopewell Presbytery. In the years leading up to the War Between the States, we are told it was the leading church for miles around, having over 250 names on its roll. It vigorously sought to spread Presbyterian doctrine throughout the area and is honored as the Mother Church by several churches. Fairview is the oldest church in what is now the Atlanta Presbytery.

In 1850, Fairview built a church in Lawrenceville “at the hill on Oak Street” for the convenience of Lawrenceville Presbyterians who found the drive to Fairview by horses and buggies, over rough roads and exposed to the weather, very difficult. Difficulties ensued during the war and life was hard during the Reconstruction Period.

On April 12, 1891, Dr. J. B. Mack was delegated by the Presbytery of Atlanta to organize the Lawrenceville Presbyterian Church. Twenty six members withdrew from Fairview Church to form the new church. The current location became the home for Lawrenceville Presbyterian Church on May 30, 1965 when a Dedication Service was held. The building expanded in the 1970s with an Education Building and then again in the mid-90s with a new sanctuary.

VISION STATEMENT

An intentionally inclusive family devoted to following Christ and serving

MISSION STATEMENT

Uniting the heart of Gwinnett to the heart of Christ through inspirational worship, invitational discipleship, and dynamic outreach

LEARN MORE

When does worship begin?
10:30 a.m.
Where are you located?

Our address is 800 Lawrenceville Highway, which is approximately 1.5 miles west of the center of downtown Lawrenceville, and 1.5 miles east of the intersection of Lawrenceville Hwy. & Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd.

Is LPC a conservative or liberal church?
As with most PC(USA) churches, ours does not identify with or endorse a political party or ideology. At the same time, we do not shy away from difficult topics; we are advocates of God’s justice, equality, and peace. We believe that the Gospel identifies with current events and modern concerns; sermons are preached “with the Bible in one hand and the newspaper in the other.” We encourage faithful discipleship and critical thinking.
Who is welcome?
Everyone- no exceptions.  Our church is diverse and inclusive; some members were born and raised in Lawrenceville and others have moved from as far away as West Africa. Women, men, and members of the LGBTQ community – young and old – are ordained as teaching and ruling elders in the PC(USA). We welcome long-time Christians as well as spiritual seekers. We welcome those of no belief, those who doubt, and those who long for something more.     
How long is worship?
About an hour; worship typically concludes at 11:30. 
What about children?
A nursery for newborns- toddlers is provided.  Children ages 3- 6 sit with their parents until the Children’s Message that takes place near the table. Afterwards, they are invited to attend Children’s Worship led by volunteers until worship concludes, but are welcome to remain with parents or grandparents for the entire service.
But what does this church do?

To name just a few things: We are involved in the community through our financial and hands-on support of the Lawrenceville Co-Op (a local food pantry), Family Promise (we join other congregations in hosting homeless families), and the Hope Clinic (who provides support to the uninsured and under-insured). Our youth go on local and regional mission trips.  We also support the Alliance for International Reforestation (AIR) Guatemala, building clean-burning stoves and planting trees towards efforts of reforestation; we alternate years, sending people one year and resources the next.

How does LPC receive new members?
We receive new members through profession of faith (usually for those new to the faith), reaffirmation of faith (usually for those who have not been active for some time), and transfer of church letter (for those moving their membership from another church).  LPC receives new members every two-three months.  Please speak to Pastor Ryan Jensen to learn more: ryan@lpc.life.
Want to learn more?
Come check us out on Sunday or make an appointment with the pastor. If you are open to a conversation, he would love to meet with you after worship, treat you to lunch, or just meet over a cup of coffee at a local coffee shop.

a little more about

THE SACRAMENTS

Who may receive communion
All the baptized faithful are welcome to Christ’s Table.

Who may be baptized?
Both believers and their children.  We believe that the baptism of children witnesses to the truth that God’s love claims people before they are able to respond in faith. The church is asked to serve as a family of faith, and promises to provide nurture and guidance to all who are baptized.

Do I need to be re-baptized into the Presbyterian Church?
No- we believe in one Baptism and acknowledge all who have been baptized with water in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.