The First Parish Church dates back to 1632 when the first settlers came here and named the place Machigonne. Historians noted that the earlier settlers in Portland were having difficulty in fitting in to the society. However, after years of settling down, the first minister appointed. Reverend John Thorpe preached at the church for 2 years but was later ordered to leave the place due to his shortcomings, which include drinking and profanity.

For almost three centuries, the First Parish Church had recorded at least more than 20 pastors who preached at the same church. Most of these accounts were heavily researched and written by Professor William B. Jordan. His historical works, which was written during the 1970s?, was edited and updated up to this day.

Although the church conducts Sunday services, it also provides a series of activities and religious explorations and classes for different ages. For instance, there is the First Parish Children and Youth Religious Exploration where there are programs available for infants and toddlers, children aged 8-12, and for the teenagers. Another one is the Adult Religious Exploration, where a group of adults will meet for luncheons, bible study, and other forms of activities.
While these programs are ongoing, the First Parish Church also run a series campaigns ? a stewardship team that will visit each church member or other families to get involved in other church activities, invite people to join the congregation, and newsletters that will be sent out to all the members.

Community events are also provided by the church. Aside from weekly vesper services, prayer meetings and house-to-house bible study sessions, there is also a youth and family outreach that provides support for children who are under the care of the Alliance for Children?s Care, Education, and Supporting Services or ACCESS.

The First Parish Church welcomes visitors by dropping by at their office in Portland, Maine.