First Presbyterian Church
1015 5^th Avenue
Huntington, West Virginia 25701
Phone: (304)523-6476 Fax: (304)523-6478

 Come to the wild and wonderful West Virginia for Christmas brake! (The Switzerland of North America and Almost Heaven)  Come see what the “other America” is all about. Our mountains, hills, hollows, small cities and rural communities offer a unique Christmas Break experience.  With a population of 50,000, Huntington is the second largest city in West Virginia.  First Presbyterian Church is located in the heart of downtown Huntington, within walking distance of restaurants, shops and entertainment.

We have a long history with Christmas International House which began at our church in Huntington, WV in 1965 by Rev. Pete Petersen.  While serving as FPC’s Associate Pastor, Rev. Petersen cultivated within our congregation a vision to offer hospitality to International Students during the Christmas Holidays.  In the decades that followed, CIH grew to more than fifty host churches.  We rejoice in the opportunity to open our church, hearts, and lives to twenty International Students during the Christmas Holidays.

Students will be housed as a group in our church facilities.  Ample opportunities will be given to develop friendships with Americans and as well with the other International Students. Most meals will be at the church and several evening meals will be hosted in church members’ homes, providing students with the opportunity to experience American family life.

In order to provide our International Students with a memorial experience, daily activities will be offered to provide a rich understanding of American culture.  In past years activities have included tours (West Virginia’s State Capitol, Marshall University, TV Stations, Art, Farm and Motorcycle Museums and Glass Blowing Factory), entertainment (Marshall University sporting events, Christmas concerts and movies); activities (Bowling, Ice Skating and Frisbee Golf); as well as whole church events (LOGOS our church’s youth night , talent night, game night and International Night Dinner).  In addition, plenty of time will be given to chill out, watch a movie or explore the area. Wireless internet will be available and students are welcome to bring laptops.

You can check out our church’s web site at: www.firstpreshuntington.org                                                            
or our Facebook Group:  First CIH @ First Presbyterian Church

Please accept our heart felt invitation to spend your Christmas break in wild and wonderful West Virginia.