FPC Greenville - Spring/Summer 2016 First Glance

vol. 12 ISSUE 2

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH200 West Washington StreetGreenville, SC 29601864.235.0496fax 864.235.0698FirstPresGreenville.org

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On the CoverLearn more about our

exciting new Strategic Plan in this issue. See pages 3, 4,

and 5 for a preview.

vol. 12 ISSUE 2

Inside this Issue:From Richard Gibbons

inside cover

Finance Ministrypage 3

Executive Ministrypage 4-5

Educational Ministriespage 6-7

Children’s Ministriespages 8-10

Summer @ 1STpages 11

Activities Ministrypages 12-13

Scoutingpage 14-15

First Pres Academypage 16-17

Music & the Artspage 18-19

Ignite Worshippage 20-21

Evangelism & Missionspages 22-23

Congregational Carepages 24-27

Marriage & Family Ministriespages 28-29

Young Adults Ministrypages 30-31

Men’s Ministrypage 32-33

Women’s Ministrypages 34-35

Student Ministriespages 36-38

Summary Calendarpage 39

First Look Classesback page

Spring/Summer 16

Glance

First Presbyterian Church / Greenville, SC

STRATEGIC PLAN 2016“ U N L E S S T H E LO R D B U I L D S T H E H O U S E , I T S B U I L D E R S L A B O R I N VA I N .” P S . 127 :1a

Join us for our three-Sunday FIRST LOOK Series

Classes meet 9:40-10:50am in the Formal Dining Room (near Fellowship Hall) on the following Sundays:

April 10, 17, 24July 10, 17, 24

Session 1: What does it mean to be a Christian?

Session 2: What does it mean to be an ECO Presbyterian?

Session 3: How do I become meaningfully involved at First Pres?

For registration or information, contact Autumn Clark at 672.0370 or [email protected].

First LOOKAre you interested in

membership or just want to

learn more about First Pres?

A look at the life of First Pres.

2 From Richard Summary Calendar 39

It has been, for most of us, a good beginning to the New Year. On Sunday mornings we

explored the opening chapters of the book of Revelation together, examining the biblical principles that apply to us as we seek to nourish a culture of spiritual excellence and engage with the culture around us.

It has also been a busy time for those who have been working unstintingly for the last two years investing time and energy into our new Strategic Plan. Over the next few months you will hear more details and see the ministry imperatives and ministry initiatives become a major focus in our congregational priorities. Please pray for our staff and officers as they continue to move toward the implementation stage.

It is hard to imagine that Easter, Spring break, and the Masters are already almost upon us. On Easter Sunday, we will once again provide five worship services. The additional services help us to accommodate the numbers attending and also assist with traffic congestion. Our March 27 Easter services in the Sanctuary will be at 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:00am, with our Ignite Easter services taking place in Fellowship at 9:15am and 10:45am. Please note the change of times, and invite your family and friends to celebrate the wonders of the resurrection with us.

Our Maundy Thursday service this year will be on Thursday, March 24, at 7:00pm in the Sanctuary. The focus of this communion service is to get away from the busyness of life and spend time in the presence of God as we journey back to remember the significance of the Last Supper.

On April the 10th, we will welcome the St. Andrews Society of Upper South Carolina to celebrate the Kirkin’ o’ the Tartans service at 11:00am. Please note the date and plan to join us for this spectacular service.

After Easter, we’ll begin a new sermon series on the Apostle’s Creed. This will give us an opportunity to examine in detail the substance of the creed, and then seek to implement what it teaches us about equipping, enabling, and engaging in ministry in a 21st-century setting.

Finally, let me express to you how much I appreciate being part of the remarkable congregation that God has called my family to at First Pres. Thinking back over the last nine years, I consider it an enormous privilege to be part of this truly amazing church whose staff, officers, and congregation are consistently faithful, prayerful, and loving. Our prayer is that God, with great patience and tenderness, will continue to move us forward to fulfill His plans for First Pres.

Meanwhile I wish you and your family God’s richest blessings for Easter.

I remain yours in Him,

Events are subject to change. Please watch the weekly GrapeVine

newsletter, website, and other published information for specific details as events draw closer and

for ongoing weekly events such as youth group, circle meetings,

Bible studies, etc.

FirstPresGreenville.orgphone 864.235.0496

fax 864.235.0698

March 19 ..............Men’s Mentoring Event with Congressman Jeff Duncan

March 20 ..............Palm Sunday March 24 ..............Academy Spring Sing

Program and Art ShowMarch 24 ..............Activities Trip:

Billy Graham LibraryMarch 24 ..............Maundy ThursdayMarch 25 ..............Good FridayMarch 25-April 1 ..Academy and MMO

Spring BreakMarch 27 ..............Easter SundayMarch 28 ..............Easter Holiday:

Church Office closedMarch 29 ..............Boy Scout Court of HonorApril 3 ..................CommunionApril 5 ..................Wit & Wisdom:

Julie Schaaf & FPH SingersApril 7 ..................Outcry Tour at the WellApril 8-10 .............Radiance Spring RetreatApril 9 ..................Men’s Event: Saturday

Morning IngestionApril 10-17-24 .....First Look ClassApril 10 ................Kirkin’ o’ the TartansApril 11, 12 ..........Academy Players: A

Midsummer Night’s DreamApril 12 ................Service of Prayer & Blessing

for Marriages & FamiliesApril 14 ................Women’s Dessert Social

with Claire RipleyApril 15 ................Great Alaska Sporting Clay

ClassicApril 17 ................Youth Sunday:

Musical ShowcaseApril 23 ................Sabbath Retreat at

Glory RidgeApril 28 ................Activities Trip:

Best of AshevilleApril 28 ................Greeter DinnerApril 29-30 ...........Spring Presbytery Meeting in

Marietta, GAApril 29 ? ..............10,000 Fathers Night of

WorshipMay 1, 8 ...............Chapel Series:

“How to be a Great Lover”May 1 ...................Children’s Musical:

“Once Upon a Parable”May 3 ...................Wit & Wisdom: Pet TherapyMay 5 ...................National Day of PrayerMay 6-8 ................Father-Son Weekend in

Black Mountain, NC

Spring–Summer 2016 Summary Calendar

May 11 .................Men’s Event: Low Country Boil

May 15 .................Music & Arts Follies!May 19 .................Activities Trip:

Shortfields of Travelers Rest

May 22 .................Pastoral Visitation Minister Commissioning

May 26 .................Academy Awards Ceremony last day

May 26 .................MMO last dayMay 30 .................Memorial Day Holiday:

Church Office closedJune 6-July 29 ......Summer @ 1ST CampsJune 12 ................VBS Teacher TrainingJune 14 ................Women’s Summer Study:

Lemonade & LearningJune 18-22 ...........Resonate! Prime:

NYC & Carnegie HallJune 19 ................CommunionJune 19 ................VBS Kickoff during

Sunday SchoolJune 20-23 ...........VBS and Day MissionsJune 26 ................Patriotic SundayJune 30 ................Activities Trip:

Caro-Mi in TryonJuly 10-17-24 .......First Look ClassJuly 10-15 ............Bonclarken Music

ConferenceJuly 12 ..................Women’s Summer Study:

Lemonade & LearningJuly 18-24 ............ROOTS FUGE Summer

CampJuly 25-29 ............Music and Drama CampJuly 28 ..................1st-4th grade Fun DayAugust 1 ...............Church League

Basketball Registration BEGINS

August 14 .............Promotion SundayAugust 16 .............Women’s Summer

Study:Lemonade & Learning

August 26-28 .......Missions Conference Weekend

August 26 .............Southern Hospitality Banquet

September 1 .........Church League Basketball Registration ENDS

September 6 .........Wit & WisdomSeptember 7 .........Wednesday Advantage

begins

REV. DR. RICHARD GIBBONS

Senior Pastor

[email protected]

FromRichard

2

SPECIAL SUNDAYS

March 20 Palm Sunday

March 27 Easter Sunday

April 10 Kirkin’ o’ the Tartans

April 17 Youth Sunday

June 19 Communion Sunday

June 26 Patriotic Sunday

August 28 Missions Conference

Operations and Finance Ministries 3

MIKE TEMPLETONOperations & Finance [email protected]

By now you have probably heard at least a little about our new Strategic Plan.If you have not read Shelton Sanford’s article about the four primary areas of

this plan, I encourage you to read it. Being the Director of Operations and Finance gives me a broad view of the life, activities, and support of FPC, and enables me to see how the new plan can greatly increase the impact of our church, both on our members and in the community.

I usually publish a chart that shows how a dollar is spent in ministry areas such as Missions, Education, Family, and Congregational Care. This time I would like to take a different approach to this analysis, focusing on the four primary areas of the new plan.

• WORSHIP. We are called, as a body, to worship God, and our church providesnumerous venues and opportunities to do so. For every dollar contributed, 12cents goes toward providing these worship opportunities.

• CULTIVATE. The church provides a secure spiritual home where Bible studies,children and youth ministries, fellowship activities, and many more ministryopportunities take place. As a church we are called to make disciples who are thenequipped and encouraged to go out and make more disciples. 34 cents of everydollar goes toward Cultivating.

• IMPACT. We are not called to stay in that safe spiritual home, but to go out andmake new disciples. We do this in a number of ways, both through our missionsfunding, mission trips taken by our members, and being missionaries in our day-to-day lives, at our work, on the sports field, and in our neighborhoods. We allshare the calling to impact our community and the world. Out of every dollargiven, 27 cents goes towards this Impact.

• FORTIFY. Unfortunately, electricity and gas cost money, rooms do notmiraculously set themselves up for events, food does not cook itself, bills do notpay themselves, and newsletters and communications are not created out of thinair. We have a large and rather aged facility that must be kept up to provide thatsafe spiritual home and place where we can worship our Lord and Creator. Thesesupporting roles account for the last 27 cents of each dollar given.

The staff and officers of the church strive to best utilize both the assets of this church and the contributions we receive, and we submit to prayerful consideration how to make what we have go as far as possible and glorify God at all times. We are constantly aware that we are but stewards of all that God, through our congregation, has blessed this church with.

God has uniquely and providentially situated this church in the heart of downtown Greenville for His purposes. As you hear more about the Strategic Plan, I pray you’ll catch the vision of our church’s future, and the excitement of doing God’s work in our congregation and community. To those who have faithfully supported this church and its ministries, Thank You! For those who are not yet involved in the work of the church, either through service or financial support, I pray that you begin to clearly see your role and calling, and join with us in this exciting vision as we move forward.

Supporting a New Vision

Where Does $1 Go?

WORSHIP

12¢

CULTIVATE

34¢

IMPACT

27¢

FORTIFY

27¢

4 Executive Ministry

Part of our strategic planning process required us to answer a crucial question: What do we do at First Presbyterian Church? While this question may seem obvious to

some, answering it made us become more focused on our primary callings from God. We have identified four essential ministry focus areas, each of which we desire to do with excellence. Here are some highlights from the strategic plan regarding these four areas:

WORSHIP—We provide opportunities for people to encounter the living God in all His beauty and glory through engaging, life-transforming corporate and private worship.

We desire for our members to be in awe of God so that they glorify, praise, honor, and enjoy Him forever. We will pursue God through excellence in all aspects of worship and through the expansion and revitalization of our music programs. We will continue to cultivate a variety of worship styles as we seek to develop a strong, diverse, and relational community of worshipers.

CULTIVATE—We create a secure spiritual home for God’s people where they can grow and be nourished, supported, and encouraged.

We desire for our members to be transformed by the power of God and to be conformed to the image of His Son. Our church will become a House of Prayer for our members, visitors, and the downtown community. We will develop Life Groups and other intergenerational fellowship throughout our church in order to place a high priority on relationships. We will strengthen marriages and families and offer our children and youth the best opportunities possible for Christian nurture and growth. We will train our membership to think biblically about all areas of their lives.

IMPACT—We equip our members to serve, engage, reach, and influence our community, nation, and the world with the life-transforming gospel of Jesus Christ.

We desire for our members to be effective witnesses within their networks of relationships. We will cultivate a missional mindset as we seek to reach and serve downtown Greenville and beyond. We will equip our members to share and live their faith within their spheres of influence. We will strategically expand our ministry through the full utilization of the resources God provides for our church. We will prioritize missional opportunities in our community as we seek to impact and influence it with the gospel.

FORTIFY—We support our vision with necessary resources by giving, building, leading, and communicating in order to accomplish the mission God has given us.

We desire for our members to be good stewards of the time, talents, and treasures God has given them. We will develop and maintain welcoming, secure, and appropriate facilities. We will develop a master plan for the renovation and expansion of our facilities. We will build a strong leadership and governance structure that is biblically based. We will communicate clearly and effectively. We will grow our Foundation and Academy in order to have greater impact for God’s Kingdom.

The emphasis of our strategic plan will be on EQUIPPING the body of Christ to ENGAGE in radical, gospel-driven PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS. Our desire is to focus on relationships and vision. As we fulfill our calling to worship God, to be a secure home for God’s people, to be an effective mission, and to support our vision with necessary resources, our hope is that every member of our church family will pray that God will enable us to grow faithful Christians to engage and impact the culture with the transforming power of Jesus Christ.

Primary Callings of FPC

Shelton SanfordExecutive Director

[email protected]

OUR MISSIONTo be a vibrant and growing

community of faith that:

Worships God in ways that are biblical,

reformed, and culturally engaging

Proclaims the gospel to the church, our community, and the world

Cultivates spiritual growth, faithful

discipleship, personal evangelism, and a clear biblical world view

Prays diligently, fervently, and expectantly

Loves others through service after the

example of Christ

Grows community that strengthens and

affirms our oneness in Christ

Executive Ministry 5

EQUIPPINGTHE BODY OF CHRIST TO

ENGAGEIN RADICAL, GOSPEL-DRIVEN

PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS

WorshipBE IN AWE OF GOD

Pursue God through Worship ExcellenceExpand & Revitalize Music Programs

Equip Our Congregation to Engage OthersDevelop a Strong, Diverse, Relational Community of Worshipers

Cultivate a Variety of Worship Styles

CultivateBE A SECURE HOME

Promote a Biblical Worldview in All VenuesBecome a House of Prayer

Develop Life Groups & Intergenerational FellowshipStrengthen Marriages & Families

Commit to Learn & Serve

ImpactBE AN EFFECTIVE MISSIONCultivate a Missional Mindset

Serve & Reach Downtown Greenville & BeyondShare & Live Our Faith in Our Spheres of Influence

Strategically Expand Our Ministry

FortifySUPPORT OUR VISION

Develop & Maintain Welcoming, Secure, & Appropriate FacilitiesExercise Biblical Stewardship of Time, Talent, & Treasure

Build Strong Leadership & Governance StructureDevelop & Approve Academy Strategic Plan

Communicate Clearly & EffectivelyTo Knowpursuing God’s truth

rooted in the Bible

To Flowcultivating

relationships that bridge all ages

To Growtransforming lives through the good

news of Jesus

To Show demonstrating

God’s love through action

VISIONGrowing faithful Christians to engage and impact the culture with the transforming power of Jesus Christ

VALUES

IMPERATIVES

6 Educational Ministries

REV. TIM LESLIEEducational Ministries Pastor

[email protected] Fall 2016

Wednesday Advantage Semester Preview

September 7– November 16 (11 weeks)

COURSES: Dr. Richard Gibbons’ Bible Study (lunchtime and evening sessions), Theology classes,

women’s classes, men’s classes, parenting classes.

Summer Plans You’ll have many opportunities for

continuing study during the summer. Look for articles on our website, in our GrapeVine newsletter, and in brochures in the literature racks

around the church.

Fall 2016 Community Bible Study

From young moms and housewives, to business people, professionals, tradespeople, students, or retired, the men and women who attend Community Bible Study are just

like you. No matter your religious background, if you want to study the

Bible this is the place for you.

Mark your calendars for the next 30-week study of God’s Word

beginning in September. Watch for announcements in the GrapeVine

weekly newsletter and the fall/winter edition of First Glance.

A Disciple’s LIFE & INFLUENCE

Our church’s vision is “Growing faithful Christians to engage and impact the culture with the transforming power of Jesus Christ.” We are learning from God and

following Jesus Christ into the world to make more disciples. There is a great story about such a disciple found in the New Testament book of Acts that relates how other disciples helped him become more effective for the Head of the Church, our Lord Jesus.

…Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ. —Acts 18:24-28 (emphasis added)

The Holy Spirit used some regular church members to educate this gifted disciple so that he was more faithful to the Lord Jesus and more useful in His work of the Gospel.

I encourage you to be learners submitting yourselves to God’s Word in worship, Life Groups, and the other disciple-building opportunities that are provided here at First Presbyterian Church. God has plans for you in the revealing of His glory to the world.

Educational Ministries 7

Adult Sunday School Welcomes New Members

Alva and Dee Goodwin After joining the church, we immediately began searching for a Sunday School class. We visited several and were warmly received and felt so welcomed. After much prayer for guidance, we felt led to join the Fellowship Class. Our teachers are knowledgeable men who share the gospel each Sunday by opening our hearts and minds to His Word. Each Sunday we feel refreshed by the teaching of Christian principles and love. The members reached out to us by explaining all the wonderful activities available that help us not only to grow in our faith, but also to become an active part of the church.

As a result of this class, we are growing as a part of this Christian family by joining a Circle and participating in Bible Study. We look forward to becoming more active and getting to know more members.

Maggie and Brad Davis We joined First Presbyterian in December of 2015 shortly after we were married, and were eager to get plugged in with other young adults throughout the church. We came across the Journey Sunday School class in the bulletin and decided to give it a try. We were immediately drawn to the inviting, casual, non-judgmental atmosphere of the class. Each week, guest speakers and mentors teach on a particular topic and really pour into the hearts of the attendees. It's scripture-based, applicable, thought-provoking, and somehow always what we need to hear for the upcoming week. We definitely encourage other young adults, whether single or married, to come and try out Journey.

Kathy McGee Changing churches as a 70-year-old widow was not something I was relishing. After hearing Dr. Gibbons and others preach, I knew that First Pres Greenville was the place for me. In December of 2014, I became a member and have been fortunate to be a part of two Sunday School Classes.

At the invitation of my friend Brenda Busby, I visited the Gospel Partners Sunday School class. I was so welcomed into the class and enjoyed the teaching. Fellowshipping with classmates as we shared food and gifts with the residents at the Summit helped to strengthen community within Gospel Partners.

Deacon Carl Evans called to be sure I had assimilated into FPC and mentioned that he was in the Adventurers Class for singles over 50; I more than qualified. I have been attending this class for a little more than a year. We’ve enjoyed a 4th of July patriotic celebration at Furman and a Christmas social with gift exchange. This class has various teachers during the year, so it allows for further opportunity to meet others. My strong faith has certainly been enhanced through sharing God's Word and work in these classes here at First Pres. It is such a blessing to be surrounded by fellow believers!

Adult ClassesSundays, 9:45–10:30am

For complete class descriptions, visit FirstPresGreenville.org or pick up

a Sunday School brochure from the church literature racks.

Accountability (mixed ages) Room 404

Adventurers (singles, 50 and up) Room 307

Agape (mature couples and singles) Room 303/304

Covenant (mixed ages) Room 305

Crossroads (couples, 30s and up) Room 401

Fellowship (all ages) Room 309

The Flock (40s and up) Ligon Conference Room

Foundations (couples and singles, 30s)

Room 403

Gospel Partners (mixed ages) Room 225

GRACE (couples, 30s and 40s) Room 306

Highlights (special needs) Room 313

Journey (20s–mid-30s, couples & singles)

Parlor

Koinonia (all ages, couples and singles)

Room 316

Next Steps (new members & visitors) Room 308

Prime Time (40s to 60s) Room 317

R. N. Ward (50s plus) Room 301/302

Seekers (couples, 30s and 40s) Room 210

Sunday Connection (couples, singles, mixed ages)

Room 315

The Upper Room (singles) Room 314

The Flock class doing a service project.

The Covenant class during a lesson.

8 Children’s Ministries

THECREWAll over FPC, you’ll be seeing Children’s Ministry volunteers in their team

T-shirts! They are the CREW that nurtures, guides, and teaches our children from the nursery through 5th grade. The different shirt colors represent different age groups. If you’ve ever considered being a part of this serving team, just talk to one of the CREW and get the real scoop!

Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing

dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive

the crown of glory that will never fade away. 1 Peter 5:2-4

WHAT A PRIVILEGE! Spotlight on Laurie

ThomasHonestly speaking, First Presbyterian Church is blessed

with the most wonderful and faithful volunteers. Serving in Children’s Ministry is not only a commitment, but also a spiritual investment in the lives of our children, teaching them to truly learn the meaning of treasuring God’s Word in their hearts and the importance of walking with Christ daily. Laurie Thomas is just one example of the great servants God has blessed us with in Children’s Ministry.

Laurie grew up attending First Presbyterian and says she cannot remember a time that she has not been involved in Children’s Ministry. She has served in Vacation Bible School, taught all ages of Sunday School, and is currently teaching the 5th Grade Girls and Large Group (grades 3-5 combined). In addition to teaching children at church, she is an elementary school teacher, which validates her love for children even more.

We asked Laurie to share a favorite memory that shows the impact of serving Jesus through loving and teaching His children.

One of my favorite memories was when one of the 5th grade girls accepted Christ and brought her new Bible to show me. She told me that she had picked out a Bible so she could grow in her understanding. She would often stay after class to ask more questions about our lesson. I loved seeing her excitement for the Lord!

I get the opportunity to share the love of Jesus with the children and see them begin their own faith journey. What a privilege! This is one of the most rewarding things that I do!

Thank you, Laurie, for making a spiritual difference in our children’s lives!

TINA JONESChildren’s Ministries Director

[email protected]

But be very careful to keep the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the Lord gave you: to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience

to him, to keep his commands, to hold fast to him and to serve him with all

your heart and with all your soul. Joshua 22:5


Want to See?

Recently, I was approached by a grandfather who wanted to talk to

me about his granddaughter, a third grader named Brygs Hunter who attends Sunday School and our WOW program on Wednesday nights. My first thought was Uh-oh, what did I do? But as this grandfather, Mike Thorne, began talking, I realized this was about to lead to something great!

He told me how Brygs had been asking him a lot of questions lately about Jesus. The Holy Spirit had been working in her heart and Brygs confessed she was a sinner and needed a Savior. Then she asked her grandfather one important question in particular: How do I ask Jesus into my heart? At that moment Mike was blessed with the amazing opportunity to lead his precious granddaughter in prayer to receive Christ.

John 10:28-29 says, I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of My hand.

Brygs’ salvation shows how important it is that our young children know God loves them and that He can speak directly to their hearts.

Consider giving your personal time to help in our Children’s Ministry and you will see the spiritual impact of serving Jesus by loving and teaching His children.

Vacation Bible School June 20-23, 9:00am–12:00pm

VBS Kick-off • Sunday, June 19 • 9:30–10:30am

Traditional Vacation Bible School rising K4—rising 4th grade

Spend a While on the Nile! Join us on a journey back to ancient Egypt—without leaving our church!

Find out… • What happened to Joseph, the guy with the colorful coat • How Joseph went from Pharaoh’s prison to the palace • What it was like to live as a slave in Bible times • How they made mummies

Bring your children, your grandchildren, and your neighbors! This is the week you don’t want them to miss. It’s the week where Bible truths are taught in creative, fun ways and where God’s Word comes to life—literally!

Day Missions VBS rising 5th–12th grades

This is a week of hands-on serving through our local community. Children and volunteers will participate in service projects, building relationships with the elderly, special needs children, the poor, and other Greenville residents. The time is short, but the blessings are everlasting for both those served and those who serve!

Get involved! Join the special group of volunteer leaders who help make this event possible. Approximately 200 volunteers are needed to cover all areas.

QUESTIONS? Contact Traditional VBS Director, Evelyn Penkert, or Day Missions Director, Karen King.

VBS is FREE. Registration begins in April at FirstPresGreenville.org.

*Preschool VBS is open to Volunteers’ children (infants–rising K3).

UPCOMING DATES June 6-July 29 – Summer @ 1ST Camp

Sunday, June 19 – VBS Kickoff June 20-23 – VBS & Day Missions June 28 – 1st & 2nd grade Fun Day 11:00am–2:00pm July 28 – 3rd & 4th grade Fun Day 11:00am–2:00pm August 14 – Promotion Sunday Route 56 Summer Activities (5th and 6th graders) – watch for emails


Register Now for MMO School

Year NurseryFirstPresGreenville.org

AUGUST THROUGH MAY Ages 3 months to 2 years

Mondays – Fridays, 9:00am – 2:00pm

Mother's Morning Out is a registered part-time childcare

ministry. Non refundable Registration fee is $50. Tuition

costs will be billed monthly at $30 per day. Tuition for Early Stay is

an additional $10 per day. Tuition for Late Stay is an additional $5 per day. If registering more than one child, please contact Beth Plyler at 672.0347 prior to completing online registration for the sibling

discount code.

Summer @ 1ST JUNE AND JULY

Mother’s Morning Out offers up to eight weeks of summer camp for infants through rising 6th

graders. From music and games to hands-on Bible adventures,

children are taught Bible points all day long in fun, active ways! Visit FirstPresGreenville.org to register.

BETH PLYLERMother's Morning Out Director

[email protected]

Mother’s Morning Out Ministry Privileged to Bless

Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

We have had the privilege of meeting many new families this year. Loving their most precious gifts has been such a blessing to us. So many of our families do

not attend First Presbyterian Church and have been referred to us by neighbors, family, and friends. We have also seen an increase in families that do not attend church at all. We are thankful for all the ways God continues to bless this ministry to our community.

Here’s what two of our moms have to say:

My son James is part of the Mother’s Morning Out Program. With this firstborn child, it was extremely important to my husband and me that we found a program that we trusted and felt comfortable with to watch our precious son. From the very beginning, the staff was extremely warm and welcoming—answering all the questions a first-time mom has. It is evident that all of the teachers who watch James have a passion for children and love them as if they were their own. My family has nothing but good things to say about the MMO Program and would recommend it to anyone looking for childcare. –Stephanie

First Presbyterian Church Mother’s Morning Out is a blessing to all children and parents they serve. As a first-time mom, I thought I would never leave my daughter with anyone other than family. I remember how hard it was dropping her off for the first time, but the teachers and staff quickly earned my trust. My daughter loved her experience at MMO from day one. She looks forward to it each week and asks about her teachers on days she doesn’t attend. I am at peace when I drop her off, knowing she is in a safe, nurturing, fun environment! –Brooke

The Mothers Morning Out Ministry exists to serve parents of infants and toddlers, ages 3 months to 2 years. We operate August to May, Monday through Friday, 9:00am–2:00pm, with early and late stay options available. Our loving staff nurtures the children, while also providing educational instruction—singing, reading, and play activities that develop fine and gross motor skills. Caring for children and their families during these early years is a great privilege. We take very seriously the opportunity to assist in their spiritual, social, and developmental growth.

SUMMER CAMPS

11 Summer @ 1ST

1JUNE 6-10

2JUNE 13-17

3JUNE 20-24

4JUNE 27-JULY 1

5JULY 5-8 (CLOSED 4TH)

6JULY 11-15

7JULY 18-22

8JULY 25-29

D1 CAMP: D2 CAMP: D3 CAMP: rising 3rd–6th grades rising 1st–2nd grades rising K4–K6

Bricks 4 Kidz Bricks 4 Kidz Pee Wee BasketballKarate Art Art

Tennis @ Kroc Center HappyFeet HappyFeetPottery Move & Groove Kindermusic

VBS—Day Missions Vacation Bible School Vacation Bible School

Day Camp I HappyFeet HappyFeet Watercolors Watercolors

Sports Camp Tee Ball (6s) Tee Ball (5s)Art Camp Bricks 4 Kidz Bricks 4 Kidz Day Camp II Adventure Week Adventure Week

Basketball Camp QuickStart Tennis QuickStart TennisBricks 4 Kidz Intro to Ballet Intro to Ballet

Music & Karate Karate Drama Camp Musical Activities Musical Activities

“D” stands for Discipleship—applying the Word of God in students’ lives all summer while having a blast!

CAMP HOURSMMO Campers may choose

M-F • T and Th • M, W, F 8:45am–2:00pm (closed July 4)

Early Stay: 7:30am–8:45amLate Stay: 2:00pm–5:30pm

WHO CAN ATTEND?

D1 Camps rising 3rd–6th graders

D2 Camps rising 1st–2nd graders

D3 Camps rising K4–K6 kids and

Mother’s Morning Out Camps infants–rising K3 kids

D7-8 Camps Rising 7th–8th grade students may

attend Music & Drama camp week 8

D1, D2, & D3 COSTS MMO COSTSCamp Fee $60/2 days $150/wk $90/3 days $150/5 days

Early Stay Early Stay $50/wk $20/2 days $30/3 days $50/5 days

Late Stay Late Stay$125/wk $50/2 days $75/3 days $125/5 days

Week 3$78 (M-F)12:00–2:00pm

Week 5$120 (closed July 4)

Stand-alone Camp Fees:*Tee Ball Camp only–$25/wk

Basketball Camp only–$100/wk

All campers will receive a t-shirt.

$25 non-refundable camp registration fee holds your spot .

Weeks 1-4 payment due June 10. Weeks 5-8 payment due July 10.

Statements will be mailed from the FPC Finance Department.

*Stand-alone camps are fewer days and offered at a lower cost.

REGISTER AT FirstPresGreenville.org

SUMMER@ 1ST

2016

HOLY LAND TOUR September 18-27, 2016

T he Activities Ministry leads several day trips each season. These include visits by bus to upstate restaurants, theaters, sports events, museums, lakes, and other

interesting sites. Here are the events planned for this Spring and Summer.

Billy Graham Library, Charlotte, NC Thursday, March 24 • Depart 9:00am • Return 4:00pm • Cost $10

The Billy Graham Library is unlike anything you have ever seen before: a 40,000-square-foot experience where you’ll discover the life and legacy of America’s Pastor. Designed to reflect Billy Graham’s journey from a humble farm boy to an international ambassador of God’s love, the barn-shaped building is situated on 20 landscaped acres only miles from where Billy Graham grew up in Charlotte, N.C.

The Best of Asheville, NC, via the Gray Line Trolley Thursday, April 28 • Depart 9:00am • Return 4:00pm

Cost $25 (Dutch treat lunch at the Moose Café)We’ll begin our day at the historic Grove Arcade, a 1930’s Architectural Jewel and the largest commercial building in western North Carolina, featuring locally owned shops and galleries. From there we’ll hop on a nostalgic trolley for a fully narrated tour highlighting the history, homes, and hot spots of Asheville. After the tour we’ll enjoy a stop at the WNC Farmers Market. Lunch will be Dutch treat at the Moose Café, a truly American farm-to-table restaurant.

Shortfields, Travelers Rest, SC Thursday, May 19 • Depart 9:15am • Return 1:15pm

Make plans to join us for an enjoyable and delicious meal on Main Street in downtown Travelers Rest. You will learn more about the early history of this once

quaint village, just north of Greenville.

Caro-Mi in Tryon, NC Thursday, June 30 • Depart 4:00pm • Return 8:00pm • Cost $35

This rustic landmark on the banks of the Pacolet River in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain foothills is a favorite place to eat. Caro-Mi serves southern, family-style favorites in a rustic, relaxing setting. This trip fills quickly, so reserve your space early.

12

LINDSAY GRAHAM

Activities Minister672.1844

[email protected]

FirstPresActivitiesTrips

Activities Ministry

Questions? Contact Donna Roper: 672.0372 or [email protected]

Summer Camp Details Page 11

The 39th Annual Turner Memorial

PRAYER BREAKFAST drew a large crowd to hear NFL Quarterback Connor Shaw speak

on football and his faith.

SUMMER@ 1ST

2016

SUMMER CAMPSSUMMER

@ 1ST

2016

SUMMER CAMPS

SUMMER@ 1ST

2016

SUMMER CAMPS

SUMMER@ 1ST

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SUMMER CAMPS

13 Activities Ministry

CONGRATULATIONS to our First Pres Champions!

Congratulations to all who received special honors at the Basketball Supper.

Senior Boys VI Coach Joe Thomason,

Assistant Drew Brown

CHURCH LEAGUE BASKETBALL >>REGISTRATION<<

5K–12th Grade Begins August 1 • Ends September 1

Coach Richy Milligan

received the Jim Johnson Award for Coaching Excellence

Mary Margaret Cain received

the Nancy Tollison

Scholarship Award

Senior Boys VI Coach Ken Carter,

Assistant John Whitmire

Midget Girls II Coach Milt Lowder,

Assistant John Parker

Midget Girls I Coach Lisa Anderson

T his should be a most exciting summer for our children as we transition into Summer @ 1ST. In addition to expanded hours of programs, our staff is

preparing outstanding crafts, music, and devotional offerings for our campers.

What Parents and Grandparents Are Saying About Summer Camps at First Pres

• We pick up our grandson from his school every Wednesday afternoon. On the way to his church one day, I mentioned to him that we planned to go to the First Pres Wednesday evening program. My grandson said, “Oh, I want to go to your church again this summer. That was FUN!” He and his sister attended Day Camp for the first time in 2015, and I was so pleased that it had been something they truly enjoyed! Thanks so much for helping to care for our children.

• For me as a parent, Day Camp far exceeded my expectations. I expected my kids to complain about not wanting to go, but they couldn’t wait for the next day. I had a tremendous peace that they were in a safe, loving, Christ-centered environment while having a ball. I am thankful for this ministry!


14 Scouting at First Pres

Scouting today holds to its traditions, but is prepared to carry young men

into leadership for the future. The program is built around Duty to God and Country and learning leadership through outdoor training. While the Camping Merit Badge is still important, Online Safety is also part of training for today’s world. All boys are invited to come and learn self-sufficiency and growth.

From the heights of the mountains to the depth of the caves, Troop 11 finds the presence of God always with us.

Cub Scouts is for elementary age boys. Contact Cubmaster Will Thomason about joining the Pack.

Boy Scouts is for middle and high school young men. New members are welcome any time. Contact Bart Robeson for details.

Left: Retired Senior Chief Thom Shea spoke to Pack 11 and Troop 11 about service, commitment, and honor before retiring three American flags.

ScoutingToday

For More Information

for Troop 11 and Sea Scouts, please contact

Bart Robeson at [email protected] or 233.7191

or Cubmaster Will Thomason at

[email protected] or 504.7124

Will ThomasonPack 11 Cubmaster

Scouts Citizenship Merit Badge

15 Scouting at First Pres

In MemoriamScoutmaster Joe BarronJanuary 2, 1952 - February 8, 2016

In his 40 years as a Scout Leader, Joe Barron continually encouraged numerous young men in their character development, citizenship training, mental and physical fitness,

and spiritual growth. He exemplified the spirit of Scouting by modeling the Scout Oath and Scout Law in his life.

In February 2010, to honor Joe’s 50-year association with the Boy Scouts of America, the Session of First Presbyterian Church bestowed the Celtic Cross Award to Joe Marshall Barron for exceptional service to God and the Church through his work with children and youth; and the Session, in conjunction with the Blue Ridge Council of the Boy Scouts of America, bestowed the God and Service Award to Joe for distinguished volunteer service in ministry to young people through service to the church and the Boy Scouts of America.

Joe resigned as Scoutmaster of Troop 11 on February 7, 2010, but graciously continued to serve as First Presbyterian’s Boy Scout Troop 11 Committee Chair and Ship 11 Sea Scout Skipper until his death. Joe died on the 106th anniversary of the founding of the Boy Scouts of America.

First Presbyterian Church of Greenville, South Carolina, gives thanks to God for His servant Joe Marshall Barron, and expresses its utmost admiration, affection, and appreciation for his life and leadership.

As many of us think of Joe, we remember just how influential he was in our lives, or in our children’s lives. When I think of Joe, I don’t think that he was defined by the Boy Scouts; instead, I think Joe defined the Boy Scouts. Joe was the role model for every kid that walked into the Scout Hut. Joe lived the Scout Oath and the Scout Law, all day, every day. Even if no one was looking. —Josh Barham

When I hear the phrase “servant leadership,” I immediately think of Joe. He was a humble servant of Christ whose actions testified to his beliefs. —Eric Penkert

His love for Scouting will be remembered by the hundreds of boys who wore 11 on their sleeves and by the thousands who have passed through the gates where the pavement turns to gravel at the end of Rainey Mountain Road. —Daniel Victorio

He helped teach me and so many of my peers the value of friendship, stewardship, faith, and the ability to persevere and live by Troop 11’s motto to “Just Put One Foot in Front of the Other.” Thank you, Joe. —John DuRant

The Scoutmaster’s Prayer:“And now, may the blessings of our Great and Heavenly Scoutmaster be with each and every one of us, until we meet again.”

Troop 11 Eagle Ceremony

Troop 11 with Jimmy Carter

Ship 11 Sea Scouts

16 First Presbyterian Academy

News fromthe Academy

A Midsummer Night’s Dream“I have had a most rare vision. I have had a dream, past the wit of man to say what dream it was.” —William Shakespeare, A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Our newest theatrical group, The Academy Players, will present Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream on April 11 and 12. The Bard would have been proud

of this stellar production, which includs students as young as K4 and as old as 7th grade. Parents, grandparents, and church members will fill the hall for the production and dessert social, expect to give the cast thunderous applause and a standing ovation following the performance.

Tryouts for the 35 parts were held in December and January. Beginning in January, students rehearsed every afternoon for three months. The fairies and elves seemed to multiply at each rehearsal as excitement, laughter, and Shakespearean language reverberated through Fellowship Hall. This will become an annual event for the Academy.

If we shadows have offended,Think but this, and all is mended,That you have but slumber'd hereWhile these visions did appear.And this weak and idle theme,No more yielding but a dream,So, good night unto you all.Give me your hands, if we be friends,And Robin shall restore amends.

The Halls Are Alive with the Sound of Music

The Academy’s Fine Arts Program continues to grow, with new faculty members and new offerings. Music

Teacher Carla Quintero, who joined the faculty last fall, has expanded the musical offerings to include instrumentation, music theory, and a range of vocal performances. A certified music teacher recently relocated from Atlanta to Greer, Carla

has 28 years of experience teaching all ages, from two through adult, in a variety of school and music education settings. Most recently, Carla was the Kindergarten and 1st Grade music teacher at The Lovett School, where she established a successful after-school guitar program and directed a summer Performing Arts Camp for grades 1-5.

Carla’s teaching philosophy guides her daily interaction with students:All children are musical. Teach with respect and sincerity.

Make a difference in the musical lives of children. Be authentic and passionate. Always make a joyful noise unto the Lord.

Be a relentless learner in order to be the best teacher you can be.

Carla was excited to find a West African drumming group here in Greenville to continue her studies in world music and instruments. She is a past national board member of the Early Childhood Music & Movement Association and currently holds additional certification in Orff Schulwerk and Health Rhythms. She is enjoying getting to know the students, parents, and faculty at First Presbyterian Academy.

TOM ROEThe Academy Head of School

[email protected]


17

ART SHOWAs we celebrate the Easter Season, the budding artists in grades K2-5th grade will participate in the school’s annual Art Show on Thursday, March 24.Each class focuses on a specific medium, and each child creates a work based on a centralized theme. The PTO organizes the display in the gymnasium, and parents, grandparents, and friends purchase the works after the Easter Musical Program.

The gymnasium will be alive with color, creativity, and sense of pride. Join us for the Easter program in the Sanctuary with the Art Show following at noon.

Are You A GEO-GENIUS? • Architectural monuments from Arab and Ottoman times can

still be seen in Cairo, an ancient city in which country? • The Royals play baseball in Kansas City, located in which

state that borders the Mississippi River—Missouri or New Hampshire?

• An ostrich’s eye is bigger that its brain. This bird can be found in the Kalahari and Namib Deserts on which continent?

For the first time, the Academy participated in the National Geographic Bee. Students in grades 2 and 3 competed at the classroom level, and students in grades 4, 5, 6, and 7 participated in both the classroom level and the school level. On February 4, the school bee was held in Harper Chapel, with three winners from each classroom in grades 4-7 participating.

The judging panel and audience looked on as the 12 class winners answered questions dealing with the United States, the world, and current events. The first half of the competition consisted of seven rounds, “Preliminary Competition Questions,” in which students were eliminated after missing two questions. The remaining students moved on to the “Preliminary Competition Tiebreaker Questions.” This round reduced the field to three students: Iona Sweeney (grade 5), Mac McCauley (grade 6), and Cash Batson (grade 7).

During the “Final Competition Questions,” the three students battled for the final two positions in the competition. Iona Sweeney and Cash Batson then faced each other in the “Championship Round,” with Cash Batson winning the round to become First Presbyterian Academy’s First Geographic Bee Champion. On February 5, Cash took the online qualifying test to determine his ability to compete at the state level.

Jane Satterfield, Social Studies Consultant and our judge for the competition, said she had never judged a bee at the state or local level that lasted as long as ours did—one and a half hours. Every moment of the bee was an exciting display of our students’ knowledge and ability. Excited applause could be heard throughout the competition, and our students can’t wait for another chance to earn the title next school year. All of our students are champions!

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Proverbs 22:6

First Presbyterian Academy

SHARON SMITHAssistant Head of [email protected]

FIELD TRIPS:Washington, DCCharleston, SC

Atlanta, GA

August 22 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

K5–8th grade

August 29 FIRST DAY OF PRESCHOOL

K2–K4

18 Music & the Arts

JOHN GENTRYDirector of Music & the Arts

[email protected]

A New Choral Work for Palm Sunday

Sunday, March 20 • 11:00am Fellowship Hall

This year’s Palm Sunday musical offering will be the Requiem by American composer Mark Hayes. First performed in 2013, this beautiful 35-minute work sets traditional Latin and English liturgical texts in a fresh, contemporary style that echoes Mr. Hayes’ many popular hymn arrangements and other choral pieces. Our Sanctuary Choir will be joined by the 24-voice Resonate! Prime (our high school choir) and an ensemble of wind and percussion instruments. The work

will be presented on Palm Sunday (March 20) at the 11:00am Service only. Please make plans to hear this lovely musical celebration.

Youth Sunday Musical Showcase Sunday, April 17 • 4:00pm • Harper ChapelThis year’s Resonate! Prime high school choir is a rare gem. With almost equal numbers of girls and boys, most of whom are capable (and more than willing) to sing solos, these students are a musical force to be reckoned with. Because of this, and because nine of them will be heading for college this fall, we’re presenting them in a special musical program on Youth Sunday, April 17, at 4:00pm in Harper Chapel. In addition to sacred and secular choral numbers, we’ll have vocal and instrumental solos and other music from these outstanding young people, several of whom are students at the Fine Arts Center. This will be the “serious” counterpart to the “Follies” performance on May 15th. Please plan to join us.

“Once Upon a Parable” Coming May 1

Sunday, May 1 • 6:30pm Fellowship Hall

Our amazingly talented Covenant Choir members will present their annual Children’s Musical on Sunday, May 1, at 6:30pm in Fellowship Hall. Once Upon a Parable, by Tom Long and Allen Pote, is a very entertaining look at several of Jesus’ parables and provides many opportunities for gifted elementary kids to stretch their creative wings. Admission is only $5. We’d love to see you there!

Spring &Summer EVENTSSPECIAL

SUNDAYSMarch 20

Palm Sunday







Music & the Arts 19

Resonate! Prime to Sing in Carnegie HallOur remarkable high school choir has been invited to take part in a performance of the Requiem by Mark Hayes in New York’s famed Carnegie Hall on June 21. Nineteen of the choir’s 24 members will be participating in this very special opportunity. This number includes seven seniors who will have graduated just a few weeks earlier. The trip will run June 18-22, with a lot of time for sightseeing and other activities. This very expensive undertaking requires a significant level of subsidy to make it work. If you’d like to help defray costs for these very worthy young people, please call John Gentry (672.1845) to see how you can help.

Music & Arts FOLLIES! Sunday, May 15 • 6:30pm • Fellowship Hall

Since we presented our first variety show in 2008, this production has become the most highly anticipated part of our annual program. Members of our older elementary and youth choirs will be seen and heard in musical numbers and scenes from Broadway musicals and other repertoire where almost anything goes! Join us on Sunday, May 15, at 6:30pm in Fellowship Hall. Admission is only $5.

The Bonclarken Music Conference

First Presbyterian’s older elementary and middle school choirs are planning to take part in the Bonclarken Music Conference for the first time this summer. An offering of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, this conference is a real gem hidden in

tiny Flat Rock, just 45 minutes from Greenville. Among the clinicians will be composer/conductor Dr. Rollo Dilworth, a noted choral director, educator, and composer from Chicago. Our students will enjoy all sorts of recreational opportunities, plus a planned

tubing trip down the French Broad River. The event will take place July 10-15.

Music and Drama CampMusic and Drama Camp will be offered as an FPC Summer @ 1ST Camp this year. Sarah Gentry, our Youth and Children’s Music Director, will guide students through

every aspect of a musical production, including singing, acting, and building a stage set. The week will culminate in a special performance on Friday, July 29. Open to rising 3rd through 8th grade students, this camp will be held July 25-29, 9:00am–2:00pm. Space

is limited. Register early at FirstPresGreenville.org/SummerCamp.html.


20 Ignite Worship

FRANCES REID Interim Contemporary Worship

Director672.7034

[email protected]

Extraordinary MomentsIt has been a joy for me to lead and serve in Ignite since I began in August of 2015.

As I have prepared, taught, and led, I have in turn been encouraged, challenged, and changed. We had a wonderful Christmas season, and I am looking forward to what is to come, from Palm Sunday and Easter to summer holidays, mission trips, and VBS!

As we meet together, may we continue to cultivate our hearts for worship and be edified through the teaching of the Word and times of fellowship. My prayer for us at Ignite during this season is that we will learn what it means to invite the Lord into our ordinary lives, into our carpool lines, classrooms, cubicles, and dinner tables. When we invite Him into those ordinary times, they are transformed into extraordinary moments, saturated with the presence of our God. The beginning of Psalm 139 reads,

O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thoughts from afar… and are intimately acquainted with all my ways. Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, O Lord, You know it all. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.

Serve at Ignite!Each week in the Ignite service, we have 15+ people serving and volunteering. The service could go on without them, but it would be chaos. Serving with Ignite at 10:45 is just one of many ways to get involved at First Presbyterian. If you are interested in passing out bulletins, welcoming, or even playing in the band, contact Frances Reid.

Music We Play Did you know that you can easily listen for free to all the songs we sing on Sundays? Simply create a Spotify account online and go to First Pres Ignite Worship for the Ignite playlist where we post the songs.

Social Media Did you know that you can stay connected with us throughout the week?

Follow us on:

/IGNITEFPC@IGNITEFPCIGNITEFPC

Ignite Worship 21

Mark YourCalendar!

EASTER SUNDAY: On March 27, we will be celebrating Easter! We have some pretty exciting things in store for the 9:15am and 10:45am Ignite Easter services that you won’t want to miss!

OUTCRY: On April 7, the Outcry Tour will be making a stop at The Well! A group of volunteers from the Ignite Worship Team are going to this night of worship with Jesus Culture, Elevation Worship, Passion, Hillsong, Kari Jobe, and Brian Houston! Though this is not an official First Pres event, we think it will be an incredible night that you won’t want to miss. Visit Outcry.com for details and tickets!

NIGHT OF WORSHIP: On Friday, April 29, we will be having a Night of Worship at First Pres with the incredible worship leaders from 10,000 Fathers! Learn more about Aaron Keyes and his heart behind the ministry by visiting Worship.school online.

Sharpened for HimIn 2005, my wife Marty encouraged me to attend what was then the “11:11”

Contemporary Worship service at First Pres. Needless to say, I found myself caught up in the energy and outward praise that came from the Fellowship Hall stage! I’m a guy who loves all kinds of popular music from Rock and Roll to Rap and everything in between. As a result of this exposure to praise music, I found myself following the worship team’s music selections and learning the songs. I ended up playing on a regular basis with the Worship team. My friendships with the Worship Team members continue to grow, and my faith grows as well through my association with the Christian men and woman on the Worship Team. Like many of the study groups and Bible studies at our church, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17).

But I learned that it wasn’t about me. It wasn’t about me being a focus of attention on the stage or attempting to become a great musician. I didn’t know it then, but later realized that God had used the praise music and Worship Team to sharpen me spiritually for things to come. In 2008, one of the greater things in God’s plan for me was to receive a devastating diagnosis of a neurological disease. It was a very difficult time in my life coming to terms with a long-term health battle, but through the Christian support and love of the Worship Team by way of the Holy Spirit, I was able to make it through! Praise be to Him in all things!

Bryan Garrison

22 Evangelism & Missions

When I returned from my trip to India in November, folks would naturally

ask, “Hey, what was it like there?” My response was always pretty much the same: “It depends upon what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for human squalor, dirt, heat, roaming animals, and crazy drivers, you can find plenty of that everywhere. But if you are looking for some of the most beautiful followers of Jesus Christ in the world, you can find that too. And that’s what I saw!”Early in 2015, the Outreach Foundation proposed a trip to India for ECO leaders with several goals in mind. I want to share those goals with you, along with some observations I made during my time there.

I. Connect with Leaders from the Independent Presbyterian Church in Brazil (IPIB)

In addition to the four of us from the ECO, two elders and two pastors from the IPIB joined us to complete our team. The Independent Presbyterian Church in Brazil (IPIB)—a 400,000-member denomination started in 1903—has recently cut ties with PCUSA for many of the same reasons we did in 2012. The leaders of the trip from the Outreach Foundation intentionally provided time for us to share with one another so that a new bond between the IPIB and the ECO might begin to emerge.

Leaders from the ECO are planning to attend a church planting conference in Brazil later this year. The two Brazilian elders on the trip lead house churches outside of Sao Paulo where they live. House churches like theirs represent the greatest numerical and discipleship growth in the Brazilian Church. My hope is that some of these leaders may visit FPC Greenville in the future.

OUTREACH FOUNDATION

ECO Trip to India November 3-17, 2015

BRIAN STEWARTEvangelism and Missions Pastor

[email protected]

II. Participate in the biennial Missions Conference hosted by a Presbyterian denomination* in Central India

A denomination of about 60 churches founded by American Presbyterian missionaries in the 1850s has been reinvigorated with a laser-like focus on planting 1,300 village fellowships by 2020 in the area where they are located. They have already started 250 of these church plants. In order to equip themselves and stay focused on this goal, they hold a conference every other year in one of their larger churches, named for the American Missionary* who founded the church in 1857.

The name of this year’s conference was “Making God’s Mission our Mission,” with the theme verse from John 3:17-18. Various speakers from India, Brazil, and the ECO, including yours truly, spoke to the pastors, evangelists, and other church leaders gathered there, emphasizing God’s call to us to live life on mission with Him and God’s desire to bless the world.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the conference was how Hindus would slip into the back of the sanctuary where we gathered and ask us to pray for them at the conclusion of our talks. I told someone, “I’ve never prayed for so many Hindus in all my life!” OK, the truth is I had never prayed for any Hindus before in my life! The local pastors and all of us on the team were very clear to those who approached us that we would pray for their needs only in the Name of Jesus.

III. Encourage the Church Planting Trainers that FPC Greenville Supports

In November 2014, members of FPC’s Missions & Outreach Committee met with an Indian couple* living in

“India is the most God-touched

nation; it is a God-thirsty

nation.”DR. E. STANLEY JONES

Missionary in India

Indian street beggar with child

House Church with ECO Team

Evangelism & Missions 23

Boston at the time, who were transitioning back to the area I visited India to train church planters for a three-year stint at that denomination’s Bible School. Our Missions committee decided to support this couple, and they invited me to visit them in India to see their work once they became settled.

One of their training tools is a book called Understanding Hinduism. First Presbyterian underwrote the cost of translating this book into the language spoken in this region of India. Most Hindus are actually nominal and uninformed about their beliefs. In order to equip these evangelists, the book explores Hindu theology from a Christian perspective, as well as some of the many unique sociological aspects of that country (such as the caste system) that need to be considered as the gospel is communicated.

IV. Learn from their Vision to Plant 1,300 Village Churches

India is probably the most religiously diverse country in the world. While there, I saw Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Tibetan Buddhist Monks, followers of Baha’i, Hare Krishnas, and various stripes of Catholic and Protestant Christians. The Indian government is currently led by a Hindu nationalist party that has passed anti-conversion laws. Check out this recent article from Christianity Today (www.christiantoday.com/article/india.12.arrested.for.converting.to.christianity/77217.htm). This means that the church in India is not able to openly evangelize Hindus. However, the church has learned to effectively spread the gospel even in this hostile cultural environment. One of their strategies is starting clandestine house churches in their region. Through its Bible School, the denomination trains evangelists who then travel to outlying areas to start these village churches. On the last night of my trip, I had the honor of visiting one of these churches.

We drove about two hours outside the city into the dark, unlit sugar cane fields of the countryside. Our drivers asked our team to get out of the cars, and we began to walk into a small village, hopping over small

streams and dodging loud, barking dogs jerking on the ends of their chains. Walking down an alleyway between houses barely as wide as my shoulders, our only lights were the “torches” on our cell phones.

At last we turned a corner and walked up the stairs into a small, mud-covered brick home. There waiting for us were about 40 men, women, and children, former Hindus and new believers in Christ, huddled into the central living space of this small home and spilling over into the kitchen and the outside stairs. They had been waiting there for over two hours to hear the Word that our group would bring to them that night. With the help of an attentive translator, they clung quietly to every word we said.

After another ECO pastor from our team spoke to them about a parable from Jesus, I asked them if they had Bibles. They proudly lifted their Gideon’s New Testaments. This was the closest I have ever felt to worshiping among the ancient, early Christians of the New Testament.

The joy and beauty I found that night in that small house are still almost indescribable to me. But the images of those new believers will forever form the heart of my picture of India. First Presbyterian Greenville and our ECO denomination should feel gratified that God is using us on the front lines of His work to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to a land that needs it so desperately.

A display case in FPC’s main hallway is called “First Pres in India.” Check out the artifacts I’ve included in that case, and pray for the Christian leaders of India as they—and we—press on to bring the Good News of Jesus to their land and their people.

*name withheld for security reasons

Brian with the Brazillian Presbyterians

The three ECO Amigos

House Church participants show their Bibles

Brian speaking at 2015 Missions Conference Seminar

Brian with a missionary couple FPC supports

24

A SAFE HomeWhen we first began to think about this thing called a strategic plan, I must confess

I felt somewhat underwhelmed. It sounds so business-like. After all, we are doing God’s work and are supposed to be led by the Holy Spirit.

But somewhere along the way, I discovered an idea that has dramatically changed my perspective. As we discussed ideas, it became more and more clear that the church was about caring—for each other and for the world around us. The strategic plan emphasized this central point: the Christian church is about building a safe community.

And so was born the concept that in order to be effective at every level, the church needs to be a “safe home.” First Presbyterian Church must be a place where people can come and feel the love of Christ without being judged or labeled.

Two years ago Stephanie and I adopted an abused stray Border collie named Bella, a beautiful black 35-pound female. The first few days with her were maddening. She was terrified of us and would cower in fear whenever we tried to approach her. Gradually she began to hear our loving calls to her and eventually learned that all-important ingredient of any relationship: Trust. Now when I come to Bella, she rolls over on her back to receive a scratch on the tummy. For the first time in her life, Bella has found a safe home.

Home is a place that is supposed to be safe. The word home conjures up powerful feelings that lie deep in the human psyche. We all want a place to call home. To come home symbolizes all that is good, safe, and familiar.

Unfortunately, this ideal of home is foreign to the experience of many. Rather than a place of love and safety, home was a place to avoid, a symbol of everything painful. Family life was full of conflict, power struggles, and various kinds of abuse.

Herein lies a challenge for First Presbyterian Church. Our church needs to be open not only to rock-solid families who epitomize grace, forgiveness, and love. Our church also needs to offer home to those who have not experienced it.

The Congregational Care staff and ministries here are dedicated to this purpose. We want all who walk through these doors to know that they have entered a safe home where they will be loved and cared for as family members. But we don’t act alone. It is the responsibility of each of us to do our part in creating this place where God’s hand of grace can touch the last, the least, and the lost. This opportunity is present each time you walk the church halls or enter the Sanctuary.

And it is not just at church where this message is needed. Many live in a world where they go for weeks or months without so much as a word of encouragement. As you meet and converse with people who need the touch of the Master, invite them in and remind them: Home can and should be a safe place.

Galatians 6 speaks to me: Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

STAN JOHNSONCongregational Care Pastor

[email protected]

Congregational Care

Congregational Care

loves YOU!

Bella

Susan Stewart, Tammy Burkhalter, Stan Johnson, Doug Gilstrap

25 Congregational Care

IN PRAYER AND Thanksgiving

A Prayer Ministry Testimony

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 THESSALONIANS 5:16-18

Bo and the rest of our family are immeasurably grateful to everyone who has prayed for Bo. To give a little background...

My brother Bo had a tennis ball sized brain tumor (acoustic neuroma) removed 18 years ago when he was 39 years old. His behavior prior to discovery of the tumor was becoming bizarre, and he was falling constantly. The surgery successfully removed the tumor but resulted in partial paralysis and impairment of use of the right side of his body, including deafness in one ear and eventual blindness in one eye. Bo has been a walking miracle ever since. This past summer, symptoms similar to those linked to his original brain tumor recurred. Family erroneously assumed that the tumor (or scar tissue) was growing back, but that proved not to be the case. Bo was in and out of emergency rooms and a mental health facility for about three months. His symptoms came across as mental illness, though doctors were never able to put a label on him. They tried various drugs to subdue and control his behavior, but nothing worked. It was a heartbreaking nightmare.

My husband and I went to the Tuesday Evening Prayer Service on September 15 on Bo’s behalf. It was just afterwards, in the same week, that Bo’s doctor decided, due to the history of a brain tumor, to take a different approach to his care and treat him as a patient with a brain injury instead of a mental illness. When different drugs were administered, Bo began to stabilize and his condition has continued to be stable.

We thank God for hearing our pleas for help and showing us His mercy and grace. Our family thanks you for your prayers, your kindness, and the comfort that has come from your willingness to enter our crisis with heartfelt, faith-filled prayers. May God bless you all abundantly beyond measure and continue to mightily minister through you to others.

Most gratefully,

Cathy Chandler

The Prayer Ministry at First Pres offers several ways you can serve

THROUGH PRAYERThe Prayer Card Ministry sends cards monthly to congregation members, letting them know they are being prayed for; the card also offers them the opportunity to request specific prayer by mail.

The Prayer Room Ministry team members spend one hour a week in the Prayer Room, praying over the requests that are received.

The Tuesday Evening Prayer Service has prayer ministers available each week to pray over the needs submitted during the service.

If you feel called to serve the Prayer Ministry in any of these areas, please contact Tammy Burkhalter.

PRAYER SHAWL

MINISTRY The ladies who belong to the Prayer Shawl Ministry are continually busy knitting and crocheting. The three

items they regularly create are prayer shawls, prayer cloths, and baby

caps. Prayer shawls are distributed by Pastoral Visitation Ministers and

Stephen Ministers to their Care Receivers and by our pastors to

those in the hospital. A few of the shawls are donated each month to St. Francis Palliative Care. Small prayer cloths are given away at the Tuesday Evening Prayer Service, and red caps for babies are made for hospitals to help bring awareness to Congenital

Heart Disease.

If you love to knit or crochet and would like to be a part of this

ministry, please give Sandra Banks a call at 864.233.7264.

The 65th annual National Day

of Prayer First Presbyterian and several other

downtown churches are joining together on Thursday, May 5,

11:30am–1:00pm, for a time of prayer in the Sanctuary. This year’s theme is Wake Up America. More details at NationalDayofPrayer.org.

TAMMY BURKHALTERCongregational Care [email protected]


SENIOR ADULT MINISTRY

Live, Love, Laugh with us at

Wit & Wisdom, a first Tuesday “lunch and learn” ministry for the exceptionally young-at-heart 55-and-up crowd, draws rave reviews and crowds to match.

So far this year, we have enjoyed lessons on South Carolina history and historic flags, beekeeping, various inspirational musical programs, and gardening. We’ll round out our 2015-16 season with music by the Foothills Presbyterian Home Singers and a lesson on Pet Therapy.

Wit & Wisdom meets the first Tuesday of each month, September through May, in Fellowship Hall. The free program begins at 11:30am, followed by lunch ($7) at 12:30pm. We ask that you call Susan Stewart (672.1756) or email her ([email protected]) no later than the Thursday before each meeting to reserve your place for lunch.

Jane Anne Bruch and Anna Teasley, our coordinators and decorators, create a wonderland of fun and excitement each month. There is never a dull moment, and a lucky participant leaves home with a fun door prize. Plan to join us and bring a friend. You’ll be glad you did!

Wit&Wisdom Grab a friend and join us

for the remaining Wit & Wisdom Luncheons!

1st Tuesday of September–May

11:30am–1:00pmFellowship Hall

Lunch $7

April 5: Julie Schaaf,

Foothills Presbyterian Home Chaplain,

and the FPH Singers

May 3: Scottish Irish Heritage

“He tends His flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart.”

Isaiah 40:11

Many perceive the Visitation Ministry of First Presbyterian Church as simply one of visiting those members of our

congregation who are no longer able to attend our church. It is that, but it is also much more. At any given time, our large congregation has many members who are ill, recovering from a hospital stay, homebound, or living in retirement homes or care facilities. Visitation Ministers provide a ministry of presence and prayer to these homebound members as they visit, serve, share, love, and comfort.

The Congregational Care Ministry trains and organizes FPC members to assist the Pastors in this important work. We invite you to join us in the Parlor the first Monday of every month at 5:30pm for training and fellowship. Those who participate in the Visitation Ministry (PVMs) receive continual preparation and equipping so they can serve with confidence and joy. Topics include Prayer, Essentials of Caregiving, Senior Action, Listening, and Using Scripture During Visits. We also have guest speakers from the Alzheimer’s Association and the Appalachian Council on Aging.

If you would like to be a part of this ministry or would like more information, please come to a monthly meeting or contact me, Pastor Doug Gilstrap ([email protected] or 672.1841) or Susan Stewart ([email protected] or 672.1756).

VISITATION MINISTRY The Heart of the Church

How much better to get

wisdom than gold, to get

insight rather

than silver!

Proverbs 16:16

Flo Selby

Jane Anne Bruch, Nancy Ledford, and Anna Teasley


WHYCare?In a world that cruises along at nearly the speed of light, we don’t often slow down

to ask what motivates the things we do. A book recently challenged me to ask a basic question: “Why do I do what I do?” And since caring is not only part of what I do, but also part of who I am, I asked myself, “Why do I care?”

Kenneth Haugk, founder and CEO of Stephen Ministry, deals with this in his book, Christian Caregiving: A Way Of Life. According to Haugk, anyone involved in giving care needs to answer the question “Why care?”

For Christians, the answer to this question is quite distinctive. About 2000 years ago, God came in human flesh. He sent his Son into the world to fully identify with our humanity, to live and to breathe, to suffer and to love, to minister and to care—and finally to die. Some thought Jesus’ death was just another human tragedy. But death could not hold down the One who is life. Rising triumphantly from the grave, Jesus established his Church.

Through His Church Jesus continues to extend His ministry of love and care for broken humanity. The love of Christ is powerful and dynamic. It is not just a good feeling; it is the basic motivation for all Christian caring. This is summarized in I John 4:19: “We love because he first loved us.”

The distinctiveness of Christian care lies not just in what we do, but in why we do it. As the message of God’s love grips Christians, we are filled with the Holy Spirit, who moves clay-footed Christians to use our God-given gifts for others. He makes cared-for Christians into caring Christians.

The greatest thing we can do for others is to first experience the depths of God’s grace for ourselves. That is the life-transforming journey that says, “I can love because I have been loved. I can comfort because I have been comforted.”

Sometimes it is difficult to open our own hearts to the ministry of the Holy Spirit and receive His loving touch. It can seem like a risky journey. Stephen Ministers, sensitive to the quiet voice of the Holy Spirit, serve as agents of God’s love and grace. If you find yourself struggling, call us and let us walk with you. Together we’ll discover God’s marvelous grace!

THE TURNER FUND helps those in need

As we approach the hot summer months in Greenville, many are at risk of heat strokes and other heat-related maladies if they are unable to make their monthly electric

payments. Some must cut back on food or medicine in order to pay electric bills. When the temperatures soar (or drastically drop, as in winter), desperation and despair rise.

First Presbyterian Church can help! Please pray about contributing to the Turner Memorial Fund. Your donations to this fund enable us to interview members and non-members throughout the year, and then to help them with electric, water, gas, and miscellaneous bills.

The Turner Fund Vision: Be imitators of God and His response to human need.

FPC FoodMinistry Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; he who comes to me will not

hunger, and he who believes in me will never thirst." John 6:35

First Presbyterian Church supports United Ministries and other

Food Banks in our community by collecting non-perishable food for the hungry. Your donations allow people who are hungry to be fed

with dignity and compassion. Please give! Bring your donations when you

come to church and place them in the Food Baskets provided. Please consider giving items that would

make a meal.

SUGGESTED ITEMS: • cereal and other breakfast items • powdered or evaporated milk* • cans of meat* • cans of vegetables* • cans of soup • cans of spaghetti or ravioli • bags of dried beans • bags of rice • boxes of macaroni and cheese • cans of fruit • sleeves of crackers • jars of peanut butter

* = in great demand

“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly beloved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a

fragrant offering to God.” Ephesians 5:1-2

28 Family Ministries

PHIL HARGROVE Family Ministries Pastor

672.1847 [email protected]

SERVICE OFPrayer& Blessing

FOR MARRIAGES & FAMILIES

April 127:00pm in Harper Chapel

The focus for the Tuesday Evening Prayer Service on April 12 in Harper Chapel will be the blessing of marriages and families in our church and community. Beginning at 7:00pm, the service will consist of music and opportunities for prayer with the Prayer Team and First Presbyterian Pastors. Marriages and families in all seasons are invited to come and receive the ministry of prayer and blessing.

BLENDED FAMILIES Ministry Forming

A growing group of First Presbyterian blended families meet together to support and encourage each other. They have formed friendships by gathering for dinner and discussing the specific dynamics and challenges of joining together families. Plans are in the works to organize further to provide both community and resources to blended families.

If you want to learn more, contact Lori Cheves at [email protected].

CultivateBE A SECURE HOME

Promote a Biblical Worldview in All VenuesBecome a House of Prayer

Develop Life Groups & Intergenerational FellowshipStrengthen Marriages & Families

Commit to Learn & Serve

StrongIndeedOur Strategic Plan states as an imperative, “Strengthen our marriages and

families.” One five word sentence with much packed into it.

We believe that the ministry initiatives described on these pages do indeed move marriages and families toward vitality and life under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Driving 80 miles to the North Carolina Mountains to be with other First Pres folks growing closer to God and exploring Sabbath fortifies a foundation for any marriage and family. Becoming trained as a marriage mentor enables you to “double dip” in that you both learn and serve. Including prayer and Bible teaching as a regular part of family life provides a power that is not easily damaged.

And yet some have experienced brokenness in families due to divorce or death. We do not want to communicate explicitly or implicitly that families have to look and smell a certain way—2.5 children with a golden doodle and a minivan (and an average of $28,000 in consumer debt). Exciting momentum is building in the area of blended families.

I challenge you to take advantage of at least one of the following opportunities in the coming months in order to be built up in Jesus Christ. When we know our strength is in Him and Him alone, when we know His strength is made perfect in our weakness, our marriages and families will be strong indeed.

See pages 4 and 5 for more details about the

2016 Strategic Plan.

29 Family Ministries

Chapel Series:

How To Be a Great Lover

Sundays, May 1 and May 89:45–10:30am • Harper Chapel

No, these aren’t seminars about physical intimacy—but rather how to love your husband or wife well. The two sessions will focus on building a marriage relationship to last a lifetime, including specifics such as relationship roles within a marriage. Join us in Harper Chapel during the Sunday School hour, 9:45–10:30am.

Family FirstSabbath Retreat

Glory Ridge April 23

A Breath of Fresh Air: Gathering With Friends

Last fall, Family Ministries offered two seminars led by George Moore and Shelton Sanford that centered on Sabbath rest. A Breath of Fresh Air: Gathering With Friends is a chance to put Sabbath refreshment into practice for a day. With George Moore hosting, we’ll have a short teaching time, a picnic lunch, a time to practice Sabbath rest, a project to engage in for “worship as work” philosophy, ridgeball with George, dinner, and a final circle on the ridge before departing. There is an overnight option, with a maximum of 50 people.

Come experience a time for togetherness where “somewhere in the mountains, at a place called Glory Ridge, a carpenter still mends hearts” (GloryRidge.org).

Join Glory Ridge founder and retired FPC Pastor George Moore for a day of Sabbath renewal.

Marriage Mentoring…Would you like to help young couples start out on the right

path as God intended for marriage? Consider becoming a

Marriage Mentor.

Seasoned mentor couples will be trained in a structured study course

to provide young couples with skills to strengthen communication,

manage conflict effectively, and successfully prepare for the

challenges of married life.

Marriage mentors are couples who have been married for at least 15

years, feel emotionally connected to each other, and are willing to share

their time to help other couples prepare for marriage. The time

investment is eight hours of training, as well as approximately ten hours per couple mentored. Each year, the mentor couple will work with

approximately two couples who are getting married through the church or who are seeking guidance during

their first five years of marriage. Mentor couples will be trained and supported by a professional

counselor who serves as the ministry’s program coordinator.

For more information, contact Pastor Phil Hargrove at [email protected]

30 Young Adults Ministry

Something’s HappeningSomething’s happening with our young adults

at First Presbyterian Church.

That “something” is the Spirit moving among them, causing them to desire to grow closer to each other and to Christ. This takes the form of a group of guys meeting

at Panera Bread on Augusta Road at 6:30am each Monday to check in with each other, encourage each other, and talk about what it means to love God in the world today.

This “something happening” is evidenced by young women coming from the YMCA in workout clothes or from their CPA work in business casual attire to share a meal and Bible study with other young women in a mentor’s home. It is seen in the receptivity to and appreciation for excellent teaching in the Journey Sunday School Community.

This happening, this momentum among our 20s and early 30s crowd, is fostered by “old guys”—men and women who have some life experience and wisdom—willing to spend time and invest in young adults’ lives. It reminds me of how Paul related to the Thessalonians when he wrote, “We cared so much for you that we were pleased to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.”

That is what is happening in the young adult world. These men and women are not only the future leaders in the community and in our church. They are also the present leaders.

If you are a young adult who needs to connect with others and with God, we have a place of you. If you want to pour into the lives of young adults and point them to Jesus, we have need of you. Let’s do this and see how the Spirit continues to move to cause even bigger things than we ask or imagine!

Journey Sunday School Community:

The Weekly Connection PointSundays • 9:30-10:30am

Parlor (Room 210)

The youngest adult Sunday School class meets in the Parlor (Room 210 near the Sanctuary) for connection with 20-somethings and early 30s, 9:30–10:30am. Single, engaged, married, married with babies and toddlers, along with adult mentors, gather for Bible teaching and conversation.

The Journey class is the “bread-and-butter” weekly meeting where other young adult activities and events flow from—it serves as the hub for the ministry. Led by McCreight King and Kent Barber, the class has social events and service projects planned throughout the year.

For more information, contact Kent Barber at [email protected] or McCreight King at [email protected].

Mark of the FEAST 666

6 Couples • 6 O’clock6 Questions

June 6, July 10, August 6

Home of Pastor Phil Hargrove 19 Red Fox Trail


31 Young Adults Ministry

To learn more about Radiance,

visit http://vimeo.com/106433881.

Listen to AnnaLouise Carter as she describes her experiences with

Radiance at First Pres.

Spring RETREAT

April 8-10 Carolina Point, Brevard, NC

This retreat weekend will consist of worship, teaching, camp activities,

and relationship-building with other members and mentors. Contact

Diana Orders for more information, [email protected].

Ready to zip at 2014 Retreat

RadianceAn outreach to area young adult women, Radiance is in its sixth year under the

leadership of Diana Orders. Groups meet on Wednesday evenings in homes across the downtown area. Sixteen adult female mentors lead the groups that encompass over 270 women.

Young adult women are always welcome—membership or attendance at First Presbyterian Church is not a requirement. And new adult mentors are continually needed as new groups form. To learn more, contact Diana Orders at [email protected].

JourneyMen: The Start of Something Big

The boyfriends/fiancés/husbands/“It’s complicated” guys

got tired of watching ESPN’s Sports Center and Law & Order: SVU on Wednesday nights as their significant others did Radiance. They started meeting in loose confederations on Wednesday evenings in order to avoid housework and connect with other men in their same life stage and season.

FPC member David Martin with Search Ministries is enfolding these young men into Bible study groups with the help of mentors. Eddie Terrell, who partners with Art Seaver to lead a group on Monday nights, commented, “We want to encourage these young men to focus on growing their relationship with Jesus as they build new relationships with other men in Christ.”

Men in their 20s and early 30s who want to be leaders in their homes, church, and community are encouraged to be a part of JourneyMen. Contact David Martin at [email protected].

32 Men’s Ministry

Want a deeper walk in your faith? Small groups for men, which

meet at various times during the week, provide encouragement

and community. New groups are starting soon, or you can join an

existing group. Contact Pastor Phil Hargrove to inquire about small

group possibilities.

Men’s Ministry at FPCOur focus is to encourage men to foster relationships that assist them in

becoming godly leaders in the home, the church, and the community. Toward that end, we want men to be involved in small groups to move them toward a gospel lifestyle that impacts these three areas. Events such as the mentoring breakfast with Congressman Duncan, Monthly Men’s Breakfast, Low Country Boil, and Men’s Retreat give men a chance to meet others and start friendships that can be deepened in a small group setting.

We want to resource current men’s groups meeting regularly, as well as start new groups that will provide a foundation for growth in Christlikeness. All men are urged to get involved in building a ministry that makes a present and future impact for the Kingdom.

Grace,

Men’s Mentoring Event

March 19 • 8:00amThe Importance of Mentorship

with Congressman Jeff Duncan

Join with local men on Saturday, March 19, 8:00am in Fellowship Hall for a time of encouragement and

discipleship. Breakfast will be provided as Congressman Jeff Duncan shares his personal story on how the mentorship he received from his father impacted his life. He will also discuss the importance of mentorship among men. We will then consider how mentoring will take shape at First Presbyterian Church, Greenville.

For more information or to register your group, please contact Autumn Clark at [email protected].

Low Country Boil May 11 • 6:00-8:00pm

In Fellowship Hall, 6:00-8:00pm, we in the Upstate plan to give a nod to our coastal Palmetto State

neighbors with food that will make them want to move up to the mountainous north. Join us!

Men’s Ministry Leadership

Diaconate Liaison: Jason Terry

Elder Liaison: Lee Dixon

SPRING FATHER-SON WEEKEND

MAY 6-8 BLACK MOUNTAIN, NC

In partnership with Camp Rockmont, this Father-Son Weekend is for sons ages 6 to 16 and their fathers (or grandfathers). Great fun and special

moments in the North Carolina mountains help strengthen the bond between fathers and sons.

Favorites like blacksmithing, riflery, climbing, and archery are available, as well as classic camp activities. Fathers will also have time to discuss common themes in raising and developing godly young men.

For more information or to register, please contact Autumn Clark at [email protected].

33 Men’s Ministry

Save the DatesFall Father-Son

WEEKENDS May 6-8

Camp Rockmont Black Mountain, NC

September 30–October 2 Camp Rockmont

Black Mountain, NC

Fall Men’s Retreat October 14-15 Greenville, SC

The Dude’s Guide to Manhood: Finding True Manliness in a

World of Counterfeits

THURSDAYS AT FPC:

Breakfast and Lunch for $10.50

Get fed well with food and conversation as the weekly gathering of Bible, Fellowship, and Breakfast meets Thursdays in the Formal Dining Room, 7:00–8:00am. Cost is $3.50. Bible study with life application is the focus. From 12:00–1:30pm, Men’s Christian Fellowship meets Thursdays in the

Formal Dining Room to discuss topics related to Christian men. Lunch is $7.00.

Questions? Contact Carl Evans at [email protected] for Bible, Fellowship, & Breakfast.

Contact Bob Jones at [email protected] for Men’s Christian Fellowship.

Monthly Men’s Breakfast Creatively called “Men’s Monthly Breakfast,” the first Saturday of each month serves as the Men’s Ministry hub to gather and eat with other men and grow in our faith. We begin at 7:00am and finish by 8:30. You will fill your stomach will

food and your head and heart with gospel encouragement.

Kickoff: Saturday, April 2 Spring and Summer dates: May 7, June 4, July (no meeting), August 6

Cost: $3.50. Join us in Fellowship Hall!

34 Women’s Ministry

The Mission of Women’s Ministry

is to glorify God as we grow faithful Christians through

Bible study, prayer, discipleship, missions, service, and fellowship.

“Seek the Lord and

His strength;

Seek His face

continually.”

1 Chronicles 16:11

CLAIRE RIPLEYPastor for Membership

Development & Women's Ministry672.1839

[email protected]

WOMEN’S MINISTRY Dessert SocialThursday, April 14 • 6:30–8:00pm • Fellowship Hall

Cakes by

PhyllisChristGuest Speaker

ClaireRipleyMake plans to join us for scrumptious cake made by Phyllis Crist of One Lovin’

Oven, and share a time of fellowship as we hear from Women’s Ministry Pastor Claire Ripley. Invite your friends and neighbors to come with you! Register by April 11 on the Events page at FirstPresGreenville.org, or call Charlotte Joye at 672.0309.

Save the Date!

To Know Him Better!“For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your

love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious

Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better and better.” Ephesians 1:15-17

I never tire of reading Paul’s letter to the Church in Ephesus. His love and care for the church he nurtured shines through, and his deepest desire was to see these people “know Him better and better.” This reflects my heart as well as I meet with women and hear all that Christ has done in each life. This year as we engage in worshipful Bible study, may we know Him better and better! Thank you for such a warm welcome. Todd and I are so happy to be serving Christ in your midst.

His love and mine,

35 Women’s Ministry

W O M E N ’ S M I N I S T R Y

A N D L E A R N I N GS u m m e r B i b l e S t u d y

We would love to hear from you!

Women’s Ministry Chair: Edith Parks, 263.7989 or

[email protected]

Women’s Ministry Web Page: FirstPresGreenville.org/ womensministries.htm

TUESDAYS

June 14 July 12 & August 16

10:00am in the Parlor

The Transforming Power of Jesus Christ led by Rev. Claire Ripley

Current Bible Studies

Weekly Bible Studies Monthly Circle Study

You’re welcome to join these studies at any time!

Visit FirstPresGreenville.org or contact Charlotte Joye for details:

[email protected], 672.0309.

Loving&Serving, Praying&Blessing

To me, Women’s Ministry means giving and receiving the love of Jesus through the heart and hands of the beautiful sisters of Christ in our church. I have been

a member of First Pres for over 47 years, and as I think back over those years, I remember so many times receiving this love from women in the church.

As a young mother without a car, there was a beautiful lady who drove me to Circle meetings. My Circle friends have brought my family meals during times of surgeries and illnesses. I have been blessed to be a member of the same Bible study for almost 20 years. This group is like a second church to me—a gathering of ladies who love and pray for one another and study the Word of the Lord together.

Over the past three years, I have endured a number of hardships—the loss of my husband, surgery, several bad falls, and a wound that has taken five moths to heal. During these times, it was the women of the church who comforted me in my grief, brought me meals, loved me, called me, sent me cards, and most of all, prayed for me. They did all of this because they love and serve an awesome God.

I see Women’s Ministry as the heart and soul of the church. It is blessed with silent angels who want nothing more than to serve each other and the Lord. I am blessed and honored to have served in various capacities in Women’s Ministry through the years. I thank God every day for the Women’s Ministry at First Pres and am so excited to see what God will do in the future in and through the women of the church.

Ephesians 3:20-21,

Debbie Davidson

36 Student Ministries

JuniorHighRootsROOTS is Family!

Having traveled to Orange County, California, for our annual ECO Synod meeting in January, I found myself sitting around a table in a state-of-the-art youth facility

with student ministers from every corner of the United States. While our contexts for ministry were strikingly different, we could all agree on one thing:

Effective ministry begins only when students feel safe and loved.We all know the Junior High years can be a difficult time for students, even those who seem to “have it all together.” With ever-changing social dynamics, the pressure to follow the latest trend, and that awkward phase known as puberty, Junior High students are forced to run the gauntlet of change and instability. During this transitional time, students not only navigate the intricate web of middle school life, but also wrestle with fundamental questions of identity, life’s true purpose, and their own faith in Christ. Big questions such as “Who am I?” “Why am I here?” and “Do I really believe this stuff?” begin to emerge in their minds.

In the midst of this turmoil, ROOTS exists to provide a safe and loving environment for our students to experience Christ-centered fellowship, receive genuine biblical teaching, get real answers to big questions, and have a ton of fun! Over the past year, God has blessed ROOTS with record growth, both in numbers and Christian maturity. It is obvious that, as we like to say, “ROOTS is Family!”

A Happy ChangeROOTS has brought me closer to my faith and strengthened my relationship with God. I’ve learned that people can love me even if I don’t know them. I have become better friends with people I’ve known for a while, and have grown relationships with new people. My friends from school have noticed a change in my personality. They have noticed that I care more about people and their feelings; I have become more loving, happier, nicer, and more positive; I have become more open and forgiving; and I have become a better person.

ROOTS has taught me that God doesn’t leave me. Even if I sin every day, God will still love me. ROOTS has given me joy and helped me find the greatness in life. I thank God every single day that I am blessed by ROOTS and everyone who is part of it.

Emma Ingram8th grade student at Beck Academy

CHARLIE BUCHANANAssistant Pastor and

Junior High Director672.0333

[email protected]

Upcoming EventsWatch for the

Summer Calendar in April.

Summer Interns begin May 30

FUGE Summer Camp July 18-24

Did you know…? • ROOTS has over 20 small groups

meeting throughout Greenville on Sunday evenings, all led by volunteers.

• This past December, our students raised over $2,000 for adopted families in less than one week.

• We can use YOU! Due to the wide array of ways we minister to students, we need volunteers with all different skill-sets and spiritual gifts.


Exciting Renewal

It’s hard to believe that another spring season is already fast approaching at First Presbyterian Church. While I always wish that time would slow

down and let me catch up every now and then, I would be lying to say that I’m not giddy at the thought of flowers blooming on trees again and colors of green splashing away the wintery grey. I even look forward to those dreaded April showers that seem to drench the world for thirty days straight, for they nourish and prepare the ground for a burst of new life!

Spring is about just that, right?

Newness. Rebirth.

A fresh start. A clean slate.

The beautiful thing about spring is that it is a reminder in creation that the Holy God of the universe is in the process of making all things new—and if there were one way I could describe the direction of ROOTS Student Ministry, it would be with the word “renewal.” An undeniable work of the Spirit is happening across the board from 6th grade to 12th grade students. God is regenerating the hearts and lives of students into His likeness and it is a marvelous thing to witness and be part of.

Sean, Charlie, and I haven’t necessarily been asking God to increase the number of students attending ROOTS Student Ministries, but instead we pray that He increases the depth and breadth of their love and pursuit of God. God has absolutely been faithful in answering that prayer as we watch older students take active leadership roles in discipling younger students, Bible studies started in schools, and students ministering and evangelizing with love to unbelievers. We see our students clamoring over opportunities to serve the less fortunate and making major sacrifices in order to be involved and committed to the church. We are simply astounded at God’s incredible daily renewal of FPC’s Student Ministries and look forward to all that is to come in 2016.

All praise and credit be to Him who sits on the throne and says to us, “Behold, I am making all things new!”

KATE FAGANFemale Student Ministries [email protected]

Help ROOTSThrive!

As ROOTS continues to grow rapidly, it is not feasible for Charlie, Sean, and me to minister effectively to each student without your help! ROOTS thrives on volunteer assistance, and we can certainly use you! If you’d like to volunteer to help during any of our weekly programming or events, explore ways to mentor and disciple students, or simply support us through prayer, we would love to hear from you!


SEAN GAJDASenior High Director

[email protected]

Did You Know? Our active group in the Senior High Ministry spans at least 11 different high schools!

Leader SpotlightKIM TAYLOR:

10-year leader, Hug Expert.

Q: How have you been

affected by volunteering at ROOTS?

A: I have a passion for

working with the youth of First Presbyterian Church, and am so blessed to be a part of the ROOTS Ministry! The Senior High motto is “ROOTS is Family.” How true that is! How wonderful it is to see God working every week in the lives of all involved, including my own life. The gospel teachings received from Sean and Kate each week, along with the constant reminder of God’s love for each of us, is priceless! The kids have the opportunity to be involved in local community work, mission trips, and numerous fun gatherings throughout the year in a healthy Christian atmosphere. I love seeing them grow in their faith during these precious years of their lives. As a parent, I yearn for all teenagers to be involved in this awesome ministry!

SeniorHighRootsGROWING ROOTSROOTS Senior High Ministry is absolutely bursting at the seams! We have been in

the midst of incredible growth as we push through 2016. Our group has had the awesome opportunity to be a part of multiple service projects as we prepare for our Dominican Republic Mission trip July 24-30. Taking the largest group ever to depart from FPC at one time (64), we are monumentally excited at the idea of returning to dear La Romana. Thank you in advance for your support, prayers, and donations, which make this trip possible.

We also had an incredibly successful Winter Retreat called Sanctuary, February 5-7. Forty-five students traveled to Asheville and spent the weekend being equipped on how to grow in their own walks with Christ while ascertaining the tools to teach their peers what it means to pursue Christ with time, talents, and life.

ROOTS is in an incredible place right now. We fill the entire Senior High Room with students as we worship every Wednesday, and we look forward to watching them grow closer together as family as we all grow closer to Christ. If you or your student has considered coming to check out the new ROOTS, let me be the first to invite you—we would love to have you!

Come join us for small groups on Sunday nights, Sunday School on Sunday mornings (9:45–10:30am), and ROOTS on Wednesday evenings (7:30–9:05pm). You belong at ROOTS! ROOTS is family!

ROOTS students at the 3rd Annual Pastors Appreciation Luncheon at St. Joseph’s Catholic School.

2 From Richard Summary Calendar 39

It has been, for most of us, a good beginning to the New Year. On Sunday mornings we

explored the opening chapters of the book of Revelation together, examining the biblical principles that apply to us as we seek to nourish a culture of spiritual excellence and engage with the culture around us.

It has also been a busy time for those who have been working unstintingly for the last two years investing time and energy into our new Strategic Plan. Over the next few months you will hear more details and see the ministry imperatives and ministry initiatives become a major focus in our congregational priorities. Please pray for our staff and officers as they continue to move toward the implementation stage.

It is hard to imagine that Easter, Spring break, and the Masters are already almost upon us. On Easter Sunday, we will once again provide five worship services. The additional services help us to accommodate the numbers attending and also assist with traffic congestion. Our March 27 Easter services in the Sanctuary will be at 8:00am, 9:30am, and 11:00am, with our Ignite Easter services taking place in Fellowship at 9:15am and 10:45am. Please note the change of times, and invite your family and friends to celebrate the wonders of the resurrection with us.

Our Maundy Thursday service this year will be on Thursday, March 24, at 7:00pm in the Sanctuary. The focus of this communion service is to get away from the busyness of life and spend time in the presence of God as we journey back to remember the significance of the Last Supper.

On April the 10th, we will welcome the St. Andrews Society of Upper South Carolina to celebrate the Kirkin’ o’ the Tartans service at 11:00am. Please note the date and plan to join us for this spectacular service.

After Easter, we’ll begin a new sermon series on the Apostle’s Creed. This will give us an opportunity to examine in detail the substance of the creed, and then seek to implement what it teaches us about equipping, enabling, and engaging in ministry in a 21st-century setting.

Finally, let me express to you how much I appreciate being part of the remarkable congregation that God has called my family to at First Pres. Thinking back over the last nine years, I consider it an enormous privilege to be part of this truly amazing church whose staff, officers, and congregation are consistently faithful, prayerful, and loving. Our prayer is that God, with great patience and tenderness, will continue to move us forward to fulfill His plans for First Pres.

Meanwhile I wish you and your family God’s richest blessings for Easter.

I remain yours in Him,

Events are subject to change. Please watch the weekly GrapeVine

newsletter, website, and other published information for specific details as events draw closer and

for ongoing weekly events such as youth group, circle meetings,

Bible studies, etc.

FirstPresGreenville.orgphone 864.235.0496

fax 864.235.0698

March 19 ..............Men’s Mentoring Event with Congressman Jeff Duncan

March 20 ..............Palm Sunday March 24 ..............Academy Spring Sing

Program and Art ShowMarch 24 ..............Activities Trip:

Billy Graham LibraryMarch 24 ..............Maundy ThursdayMarch 25 ..............Good FridayMarch 25-April 1 ..Academy and MMO

Spring BreakMarch 27 ..............Easter SundayMarch 28 ..............Easter Holiday:

Church Office closedMarch 29 ..............Boy Scout Court of HonorApril 3 ..................CommunionApril 5 ..................Wit & Wisdom:

Julie Schaaf & FPH SingersApril 7 ..................Outcry Tour at the WellApril 8-10 .............Radiance Spring RetreatApril 9 ..................Men’s Event: Saturday

Morning IngestionApril 10-17-24 .....First Look ClassApril 10 ................Kirkin’ o’ the TartansApril 11, 12 ..........Academy Players: A

Midsummer Night’s DreamApril 12 ................Service of Prayer & Blessing

for Marriages & FamiliesApril 14 ................Women’s Dessert Social

with Claire RipleyApril 15 ................Great Alaska Sporting Clay

ClassicApril 17 ................Youth Sunday:

Musical ShowcaseApril 23 ................Sabbath Retreat at

Glory RidgeApril 28 ................Activities Trip:

Best of AshevilleApril 28 ................Greeter DinnerApril 29-30 ...........Spring Presbytery Meeting in

Marietta, GAApril 29 ? ..............10,000 Fathers Night of

WorshipMay 1, 8 ...............Chapel Series:

“How to be a Great Lover”May 1 ...................Children’s Musical:

“Once Upon a Parable”May 3 ...................Wit & Wisdom: Pet TherapyMay 5 ...................National Day of PrayerMay 6-8 ................Father-Son Weekend in

Black Mountain, NC

Spring–Summer 2016 Summary Calendar

May 11 .................Men’s Event: Low Country Boil

May 15 .................Music & Arts Follies!May 19 .................Activities Trip:

Shortfields of Travelers Rest

May 22 .................Pastoral Visitation Minister Commissioning

May 26 .................Academy Awards Ceremony last day

May 26 .................MMO last dayMay 30 .................Memorial Day Holiday:

Church Office closedJune 6-July 29 ......Summer @ 1ST CampsJune 12 ................VBS Teacher TrainingJune 14 ................Women’s Summer Study:

Lemonade & LearningJune 18-22 ...........Resonate! Prime:

NYC & Carnegie HallJune 19 ................CommunionJune 19 ................VBS Kickoff during

Sunday SchoolJune 20-23 ...........VBS and Day MissionsJune 26 ................Patriotic SundayJune 30 ................Activities Trip:

Caro-Mi in TryonJuly 10-17-24 .......First Look ClassJuly 10-15 ............Bonclarken Music

ConferenceJuly 12 ..................Women’s Summer Study:

Lemonade & LearningJuly 18-24 ............ROOTS FUGE Summer

CampJuly 25-29 ............Music and Drama CampJuly 28 ..................1st-4th grade Fun DayAugust 1 ...............Church League

Basketball Registration BEGINS

August 14 .............Promotion SundayAugust 16 .............Women’s Summer

Study:Lemonade & Learning

August 26-28 .......Missions Conference Weekend

August 26 .............Southern Hospitality Banquet

September 1 .........Church League Basketball Registration ENDS

September 6 .........Wit & WisdomSeptember 7 .........Wednesday Advantage

begins

REV. DR. RICHARD GIBBONS

Senior Pastor

[email protected]

FromRichard

2

SPECIAL SUNDAYS

March 20 Palm Sunday







vol. 12 ISSUE 2

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH200 West Washington StreetGreenville, SC 29601864.235.0496fax 864.235.0698FirstPresGreenville.org

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Contact Us200 West Washington Street


phone 864.235.0496fax 864.235.0698

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TelevisionBroadcast

First and Foremost Television Program

WHNS-TV FOX Carolina Sundays at 10:30am

On the CoverLearn more about our

exciting new Strategic Plan in this issue. See pages 3, 4,

and 5 for a preview.

vol. 12 ISSUE 2

Inside this Issue:From Richard Gibbons

inside cover

Finance Ministrypage 3

Executive Ministrypage 4-5

Educational Ministriespage 6-7

Children’s Ministriespages 8-10

Summer @ 1STpages 11

Activities Ministrypages 12-13

Scoutingpage 14-15

First Pres Academypage 16-17

Music & the Artspage 18-19

Ignite Worshippage 20-21

Evangelism & Missionspages 22-23

Congregational Carepages 24-27

Marriage & Family Ministriespages 28-29

Young Adults Ministrypages 30-31

Men’s Ministrypage 32-33

Women’s Ministrypages 34-35

Student Ministriespages 36-38

Summary Calendarpage 39

First Look Classesback page

Spring/Summer 16

Glance

First Presbyterian Church / Greenville, SC

STRATEGIC PLAN 2016“ U N L E S S T H E LO R D B U I L D S T H E H O U S E , I T S B U I L D E R S L A B O R I N VA I N .” P S . 127 :1a

Join us for our three-Sunday FIRST LOOK Series

Classes meet 9:40-10:50am in the Formal Dining Room (near Fellowship Hall) on the following Sundays:

April 10, 17, 24July 10, 17, 24

Session 1: What does it mean to be a Christian?

Session 2: What does it mean to be an ECO Presbyterian?

Session 3: How do I become meaningfully involved at First Pres?

For registration or information, contact Autumn Clark at 672.0370 or [email protected].

First LOOKAre you interested in

membership or just want to

learn more about First Pres?

A look at the life of First Pres.

FPC Greenville - Spring/Summer 2016 First Glance

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Transcript of FPC Greenville - Spring/Summer 2016 First Glance