A Modern Church Rich in History

The American Church in Paris is the first American church established on foreign soil. Begun in 1814, its official charter and first sanctuary were established in 1857. The present facilities on the quai d'Orsay date from 1929.

From the beginning, the American Church has been an interdenominational fellowship, theologically situated in the historic Christian tradition as symbolized by the Apostles' Creed. Throughout its history, our church has served not only the expatriate American community, but a wide variety of English-speaking people from different countries and denominational backgrounds who find here a spiritual home and resources that enhance their experience of living and working in France. Each Sunday when we gather for worship, it is a marvelous experience of the gathering of the Church of Jesus Christ from all nations - residents of Paris, along with visitors, represent many cultures, races, languages, and denominational traditions.

With a multi-faceted mission, the American Church is a community center as well, providing space and resources for a variety of community activities and groups. More than 2000 people use our facilities each day. Two bilingual nursery schools, a variety of "twelve step" recovery groups, aerobic classes, basketball leagues, a free concert series, our "Ad Board" for housing and job opportunities, and many more community-based services are housed in our building under the auspices of our non-profit association, the Franco-American Community Center in Paris.

NOTE: This information is also available in Japanese - click here to download the .pdf file.