We are God’s well-loved children! We are young, not-so young, married, single, in partnerships, widows, and widowers. We are ethnically, racially, politically, socially, economically, and theologically diverse, and we love each other! We like to say that we are blessed to be a blessing! We use who we are to build relationships with each other and the neighbors around us.
PRESBYTERY NEWS
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
This Sunday we will gather in the presence of the God who welcomes us with open arms. Together we will hear Christ's call to extend that same welcome to others, discovering that even the smallest acts of kindness and hospitality can become powerful signs of God's love. As we worship through Word, song, prayer, and sacrament, may our hearts be renewed to receive Christ—and to share Christ's welcome with the world.
This Sunday we will celebrate the Sacrament of Holy Communion. As part of the Worship Committee's ongoing exploration of different ways of gathering around the Lord's Table, we will receive Communion while remaining seated as elders serve the congregation by passing trays of bread and juice through the pews. This was the practice at First Church for many years, and we look forward to sharing in this meaningful tradition once again.
We will also receive the Two Cents-a-Meal Offering, a Presbyterian hunger ministry that helps feed neighbors both near and far. Half of the offering remains at First Church to support local ministries such as our Backpack Ministry and Blessing Box, while the other half is shared through the Presbytery of Florida to fund hunger-relief efforts throughout our region. Thank you for helping us share Christ's love in practical ways.
There's still time to sing with the Summer Choir! Two opportunities remain: THIS SUNDAY, June 28, and August 2. Join us at 9:00 AM in Mowat Hall as we prepare music for worship. Summer Choir is open to everyone—whether you're a longtime choir member or simply enjoy singing. No long-term commitment is required, and music and practice recordings are available at www.firstchurchlh.org/summerchoir. We'd love to have you join us!
Interested in Membership? If you'd like to learn more about First Church and what it means to become a member, join Pastor Julie for an informal conversation and Q&A THIS SUNDAY, June 28, at 11:15 AM in the Sanctuary Classroom. Whether you're new to First Church, have been worshiping with us for a while, or are simply exploring where God may be leading you, you're invited to come, ask questions, and learn more about the life and ministry of our congregation. There's no pressure or obligation—just a welcoming conversation.
The church office will be closed next week while Pastor Julie is traveling and Terri Boardway, our Administrative Assistant, is away on vacation. Thank you for your understanding. If you have an emergency pastoral need or require congregational care, please contact:
Bob Plank, Clerk of Session
(850) 206-4617
or
Kathy Welsh, Chair, Congregational Care Committee
(850) 866-0019
The church office will reopen the following week. We appreciate your patience and wish everyone a safe and blessed week.