A Brief History
The First United Presbyterian Church of San Francisco (FUPCSF) was founded on January 7, 1866, by Pastor Joseph Cooper of the Third Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, who was designated by his Presbytery to initiate mission work in San Francisco, California. Over the span of more than 160 years, FUPCSF has relocated multiple times and evolved from an early pioneer mission into a recognized traditional English church within the United Presbyterian Church and later the Presbyterian Church (USA) denomination (PC(USA)). The congregation has since grown into a multicultural and multi-ethnic community, encompassing both English and ethnic Chinese ministries.
The current location at 1740 Sloat Blvd. was acquired in 1949, with the main church building and grounds completed and dedicated on November 19, 1952. A west wing expansion followed in 1957. FUPCSF functioned as a traditional English congregation until 1979, when demographic changes prompted the church to establish a Taiwanese-Hokkien (Minnan language-based) congregation alongside its English congregation. From 1979 to 1983, FUPCSF actively contributed to the establishment of churches in Walnut Creek, Burlingame, and Fremont, which have since become independent congregations within PC(USA). In response to the evolving needs of subsequent generations, FUPCSF transitioned its Taiwanese-Hokkien ministry to a Mandarin Ministry, complementing its ongoing English Ministry and congregation.
The English Ministry continues to adapt to meet the spiritual and ministerial needs of contemporary believers and seekers interested in Christian growth and community service. Services are conducted informally, facilitating open dialogue and exchange of ideas. Fellowship gatherings are also held informally and may reflect current events.
Individuals seeking to engage with FUPCSF are welcome to connect with the church to explore fellowship and ministry opportunities aligned with their interests.
Pastoral Care
Rev. InHo Kim
InHo was born in Korea, grew up in Michigan, and has called the California Bay Area home since 1994. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the San Francisco Theological Seminary, he has been pastoring in San Francisco since 1998.
He has served as an associate director for Cameron House and as co-pastor of New Church Development at Mission Bay Community Church. Since 2008, InHo has served as the part-time pastor at First United Presbyterian Church in San Francisco (FUPCSF). During this time, he has served on the staff of the Presbytery of San Francisco in various roles and as the Transitional Executive Partner for Congregational Vitality and Clergy Support. He continues his work as an assessor for New Beginnings, helping churches find renewed mission and vision.
InHo is an attentive listener, a constant learner, an astute discerner, and a caring presence. He strives to discern God’s vision in all places because he believes that is what is most needed in the life of our churches today. He continues to be excited and energized to be part of the process of transformation.
InHo lives in San Francisco with his wife Theresa, his son Ian, his daughter Ella, and their dog Finn. He can be found in local coffee houses and walking trails all over the Bay Area. InHo loves music and exploring different musical genres and instruments. He loves cooking, eating good food, traveling, and spending time with his family and friends.