"I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."
John 13:34-35
Williamsburg Presbyterian cares deeply about being involved with our neighbors across the street at William and Mary, as well as any student who may call this church home. Our campus ministry team, associate pastor, assistant director of music, and educator all oversee various parts of this ministry. We want each and every student to know that no matter what aspects of church life they are involved in, they are welcome to call WPC their home away from home.
Students are welcome and involved in all aspects of church life
Worship
A group of students can typically be found in the balcony in the pews just at the top of the stairs at both the 9:30 and 11:00 am services each Sunday. You will probably also see some throughout the congregation.
Westminster Ringers
This is an intermediate to advanced level bell choir specifically for college-age ringers. Some ringing experience and music literacy is preferred. The choir rehearses Thursday evenings 7:30 to 9:00pm, exploring the creative frontiers of this emerging genre using a wide range of repertoire, and participates in worship several times during each semester as well as at Grand Illumination. Contact Norman Elton for more information.
Choir
The Chancel Choir is open to adults of all ages and welcomes the participation of college students. The choir rehearses Wednesdays 7:30 - 9:00pm. The Chancel Choir prepares choral music of all styles and time periods and participates in most worship services throughout the year. Contact Chris Bechtler for more information.
Finding Faith Breakfasts
Come for a free breakfast and to take a look at how various faith traditions understand and participate in the world on the first Wednesday of each month. Spiritual leaders will join us to share their thoughts, but this is mainly a time for anyone who has questions about the whys and hows of faith and life within varied faith traditions. Contact “A” Williams for more information
Internship Program
This program aims to help students who may want to assist in church leadership (professional or not) throughout their life develop their skills and theology. Interns may work in a number of areas and with a number of ages. Contact “A” for more information.
Second Families
Second Families connects students with others in the church who are willing to give a student what they need from a local family from dinners out to help with transportation to just a dog to pet. Students and families are each surveyed and matched based on interests and needs. This program typically begins each spring semester and lasts throughout a students time here in Williamsburg (and sometimes longer).
U≡University Kirk≡Scottish for "Church" Is UKirk a Ministry? A room? A small group? Is it a place for connecting with other students? All of the above!
UKirk Williamsburg is the college fellowship based out of Williamsburg Presbyterian Church. We welcome all college students seeking to find connections and support during their years at William & Mary or other local institutions of higher learning. In addition to our weekly meetings, other events include progressive dinners, pumpkin carving, Habitat for Humanity builds, baking and bake sales, cookouts, and retreats. UKirk is an intentionally welcoming space, and prides itself in being a place where questions and doubts are honored.
The Room
The UKirk Room (012) can be found on the lower level of the church under Stevenson Hall. This room is open 24-7 for undergrad students to use as a “second home” for fellowship, studying, rest, or as a place to escape as needed. WiFi, cooking/baking supplies, fridge (often with food), and smart TV are all available in the room. Building Codes are available once you have signed up for one with “A”.
The Meetings
UKirk Monday Dinner and Dialogue: On Monday Evenings from 6-8pm, students gather for a free delicious usually home cooked dinner in the UKirk Room. Dinner is followed by a time of dialogue and fellowship where we discuss issues that affect us as college students through bible study, spiritual practices, interacting with guest speakers, and just talking about our experiences. New Students are Always Welcome.
Retreats & Missions
Through the UKirk program (but available to all students), we offer opportunities for both retreats away from the school setting and mission experiences within our local, national and international communities. Events range from a day to a week in length and examine issues labeled as important by UKirk students.
Montreat College Conference
This is a conference where hundreds of students gather from January 2-5 each year to share stories and be inspired. For 2023, leadership includes Peter Enns and will look at what we need when it is hard to keep going when life is crazy, and you just don’t want to.
Gather
Gather (also known as "First Fridays") is a fellowship of people generally ranging from mid-twenties to mid-forties in age. We have done a lot of fun things together and look forward to more of the same!
Outings to restaurants, wineries, and breweries
Cookouts/potlucks with and without lawn games
Movie and game nights
Bowling
Mini-golf
Visit to a botanical garden
Escape room
A retreat
Click for more information and to join the email list!
Pastoral Support and Ministry to Local Students and WPC Students Away
Our pastors and Director of Education “A” Williams are always available to offer support, care, and an ear when needed. We will also answer any additional questions or provide information on most things faith . . . or if you just need some coffee or some food that isn’t from campus, we are also available anytime you’re looking for that! Reach out any time.
