First Christian Church of Charleston, South Carolina

Located in historic Charleston County, South Carolina, First Christian Church is situated in a growing and vibrant region. As of 2023, Charleston County had a population of over 424,000, with continued growth projected. This dynamic setting provides rich opportunities for ministry, outreach, and engagement with the broader community.

Who We Are

We celebrated our centennial in 1997 and our building/location outside of the downtown area is having its 50th anniversary this year. We are very proud of our long, rich Disciples heritage. We are a loving, welcoming congregation of approximately 160 members, with an average Sunday attendance of 45 in-person and 10 online via YouTube. Our membership has nearly 65% being retired and 30% single. We value our strong sense of unity and are grateful to be a congregation free from significant conflict or division.

Our Vision and Needs

We seek a full-time minister who will help us grow in key areas of congregational life, including:

- Youth Ministry: Creating opportunities for children and youth to learn, serve, and connect; Integrating with the Montessori school on the premises.

- Evangelism & Outreach: Engaging our community & inviting new people of all ages and races into faith & fellowship.

- Visitation & Pastoral Care: Supporting members, particularly shut-ins and those in crisis.

- Leadership Development: Empowering and equipping members for ministry and service.

We are committed to deepening our spiritual lives through:

- Blended Worship Services: Honoring both modern and traditional styles of worship.

- Biblical Education: Offering Sunday School and Bible studies for all ages.

- Fellowship & Mutual Support: Cultivating a caring, connected church family.

Our Facilities

We have a beautiful, paid-off church with a Sanctuary building, a Fellowship Hall and Office building and an Education building that is being leased by a Montessori school for infants through 8th grade. The rent payments received are utilized for facility maintenance and repair projects.  We host the SC Regional Offices and other groups like AA for regular meetings.

Our Church Life & Traditions

Our community is active and spiritually engaged. Highlights include:

- Special Services: Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Christmas Eve, & other holy-day observances.

- Ministry Groups: Christian Women's Fellowship and Christian Men’s Fellowship.

- Support During Crises: We come together to help one another during storms, illness, and loss.

- Ongoing Fellowship: Holiday dinners, church-wide meals, and service opportunities foster strong relationships.

- We are actively involved in the SC Region and general expressions of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

Spiritual Practices

Bible reading is encouraged daily, supported by a church-wide scripture email.

We value prayer, worship, and scripture as foundational to our faith journey together.

Our Community Bible Study on Wed evenings engages a more in-depth study.

About Our Community

Charleston is a top tourist destination with a rich history.  We have beautiful beaches, marshes and lakes for recreation.  It has several colleges, great medical facilities, and wonderful educational, sports and cultural opportunities.

Apply through the Disciples Portal