2014

Dear First Pres,

     I hope, by now, you can string at least part of our church’s purpose statement together.  Let’s take a mental quiz right now.  Our purpose is to __?

Dear First Pres,

This last week I launched a new sermon series called Being Church on Purpose. If you haven't heard much about our church's new purpose statement, I hope you will make it a priority to be in worship as we examine some of the Scripture texts that have inspired our purpose: to engage together in Christ's work of making disciples for the redeeming transformation of our city and world.

Dear First Pres,

A few Sundays back, we held a First Pres Forum. Many of you were there, but I realized this week that I never gave much of a report back to the rest of the congregation about that meeting. Thus, today’s FPC Weekly letter is a brief summary of the Forum.

     Last night I was privileged to gather with other parents for a special meeting designed just for us.  Craig Blodgett, our Student Ministries Director, organized the meeting to provide space for parents to connect in, share, and process our grief of Thomas Harabedian's death.  Jay Pope, who has a PhD in Clinical Psychology, also shared some great information about suicide, depression, and adolescence (thanks, Jay).  It was really an important time for parents to connect and pray together for the Harabedians, our church, and our families.

     The stories keep coming in.  The launch of Community Groups out into their various parts of the city was a great learning experience and success.  I had the privilege of serving at a Senior Board and Care Home just a mile or so from my house.  Our team helped with some light maintenance around the house, baked some fresh cookies for the residents and caregivers, and spent time connecting with the residents. It was such a privilege to see folks operating in their sweet spots as they cared and served in these various ways.