Georgetown Presbyterian Church, Washington D.C.

The Georgetown Presbyterian Church got its start with a small group of worshippers, who gathered together in 1760 for the very first time. Twenty years later, the band of Christians organized the group into a formal Church. The official start date of January 1 was picked. In the same year, the first pastor of the congregation was chosen: the Reverend Stephen Bloomer Balch.

Balch was a revolutionary at heart, and served in the army. He was mentored by John Witherspoon, who was a clergyman also, and President of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University). Witherspoon also signed the Declaration of Independence. Rev. Balch carried on well from his teacher, and would go on to serve this local congregation for over 50 years.

The church has had two different locations over the years: Bridge Street (which is now called M Street) and West Street (which is currently called P Street). In 1821 President Monroe laid the cornerstone for the new construction that was added to the church. In similar fashion, President Grant placed a cornerstone for the church, when it was moved to the P Street location.

This congregation has continued to serve the Washington D.C. community since its founding. It is now the oldest local church in continuous service, and one of the older churches to be found anywhere in the area.