10 Essential Facts About First ARP Church Rock Hill SC: History, Leadership, And 2025 Ministries
Diving into the heart of Rock Hill, South Carolina, the First Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church (ARP) stands as a monumental pillar of faith, history, and community service. As of today, December 22, 2025, the church continues its mission of sharing the lasting hope of Jesus Christ through vibrant worship, dedicated discipleship, and extensive local and global outreach.
Founded in 1895, First ARP Church is more than just a historic landmark; it is a dynamically active congregation within the Associate Reformed Presbyterian denomination, consistently updating its programs and leadership to meet the needs of the modern Rock Hill community.
Current Leadership and Pastoral Staff (2025)
The strength of First ARP Church lies in its committed pastoral and support staff, who guide the congregation in its theological and community-focused efforts. The leadership structure for 2025 ensures a strong focus on spiritual growth for all age groups.
- Senior Pastor: Rev. Matt Kuiken
- Associate Pastor, Youth & Families: Rev. Josh Hjemvick
- Elders (Class of 2025): Chuck Cauthen, Scott Ledford, Mike Looper, Steve Southwell
- Ministry and Support Staff (Partial List): Connie Kiser, Elijah Hoyer, Patrick Robinson, Orlando Jones, Mollie Grooms, Lauren Ross, Tiffany Dagenhart, Ryan Tinker
Rev. Matt Kuiken began his tenure as Senior Pastor in July 2013, bringing a background from Geneva College in Christian Ministries. His leadership, alongside Associate Pastor Rev. Josh Hjemvick, focuses on maintaining the church's reformed Presbyterian identity while fostering a loving and family-oriented faith community. The church also maintains a strong connection with the broader ARP denomination through leaders like Jon M. Oliphant, who serves on the World Witness committee for the 2021-2025 term.
The Historic Significance of the 1898 Sanctuary
The physical structure of First ARP Church is a testament to Rock Hill's architectural and religious heritage. Its beautiful sanctuary, completed in 1898, remains a central place of worship and spiritual renewal.
The original sanctuary was designed by the notable Charlotte architect C.C. Hook. Hook’s design established the church as a significant architectural fixture in York County. This historic building has been carefully maintained, with an addition made to the rear in 1911 to accommodate the growing congregation.
A major expansion of the facilities occurred in 1930 with the opening of a handsome new Sunday School building located on the corner of White Street and Oakland Avenue, further cementing the church's commitment to Christian education and community development.
The church’s deep roots in the city are also highlighted by its active members, including Rock Hill Mayor John Gettys and his family, who are known for their involvement in the First Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. This connection demonstrates the church's enduring role in the civic and spiritual life of the city.
Vibrant Ministries and Key 2025 Community Events
First ARP Church is characterized by a vibrant calendar of events and dedicated ministries that cater to all ages, focusing on discipleship, fellowship, and service. The church is a key player in the Catawba Presbytery and actively engages in both local and international missions.
Focused Youth and Children’s Ministries
Under the guidance of Rev. Josh Hjemvick, the youth ministry seeks to develop and nurture a personal relationship with Jesus Christ through evangelism, fellowship, and ministry. Key events for 2025 include a High School Youth Retreat scheduled for September, providing a focused environment for spiritual growth and community building.
The congregation is also known for its ambitious mission work. Recent reports from the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church mention the church's plan to send a group of teenagers to Rwanda in Africa for a week-long summer mission trip. This commitment to global outreach underscores the church’s belief in making a tangible impact beyond its local borders.
Active Women's Ministry and Discipleship
The Women’s Ministry (WM) at First ARP Church is a cornerstone of fellowship and spiritual support. The 2025 calendar highlights several key gatherings, including a Women's Ministry Spring Retreat held in the Fellowship Hall in March. Furthermore, the ministry emphasizes consistent spiritual discipline through a Weekly Intercessory Prayer meeting, scheduled for September 2025. These regular events help foster a strong network of support and service among the women of the congregation.
Community Outreach and Local Presence
First ARP Church maintains a strong presence in the Rock Hill community through various outreach efforts. The church actively supports local initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to the broader community for Christ.
A notable upcoming event is the ChristmasVille Parade Pizza Dinner, scheduled for December 5, 2025. This event ties the church directly into one of Rock Hill’s most popular annual festivals, providing a space for fellowship and community engagement during the holiday season. The church also supports the establishment of a New Church Community Group in Rock Hill, further expanding the reach of the ARP denomination in the area.
Theological Foundations and Worship Style
As an Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, First ARP is a historic reformed Presbyterian church. The church’s theological foundation is centered on the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, holding scripture as foundational for all its beliefs and practices.
Worship services blend tradition with accessibility, often featuring both acoustic and traditional worship styles to engage a diverse congregation. The church is committed to the Westminster Standards, which include the Westminster Confession of Faith and the Larger and Shorter Catechisms, guiding their understanding of doctrine and worship. This commitment to historic reformed theology ensures a depth of teaching and a focus on Christ-centered living.
The church also maintains close ties to the denomination's educational institutions, including Erskine College and Erskine Seminary, which serve as vital resources for theological training and ministry development. This network reinforces the church's mission to develop faithful, informed disciples.
Conclusion
From its historic 1898 sanctuary designed by C.C. Hook to its modern, Christ-centered ministries led by Rev. Matt Kuiken and Rev. Josh Hjemvick, First ARP Church in Rock Hill, SC, remains a vital and dynamic center of faith. The church's commitment to discipleship, community service, and global missions—including its 2025 High School Youth Retreat and Women's Ministry Spring Retreat—ensures its continued relevance and impact in York County and beyond. As a key fixture in the Catawba Presbytery, First ARP Church is not just looking back at its rich history, but actively looking forward, sharing the lasting hope of Jesus Christ with a new generation.
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