first press
JANUARY 2021
Christmas Poinsettias honor loved ones and memorialize those we have lost.
December Children's Pageant comes alive with drive-thru experience. [See article pages 16-17]
[See pages 20-22]
Local & Global Missions: celebrating God's work in 2020. [See article page 7-13]
Celebrate 175 years of ministry, mission, and purpose in 2021.
[See Pastor's article pages 2-3 & feature article pages 14-15]
PASTOR’S ARTICLE
New Year, New Wilderness
Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way, the voice of one crying in the wilderness: "Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight," - Mark 1:2-3
W
elcome to 2021 and the 175th year of First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio.
In 1838, a missionary from Pennsylvania named John McCullough left Pennsylvania for the wilderness of Texas with one purpose in mind: to prepare a way for the Lord into South Texas and from there into Mexico. At that time, San Antonio was a town of gamblers, desperadoes, houses of ill-repute, saloons—everything you want in a wild west movie! The ruins and wounds from the battle of the Alamo were still fresh.
Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller Senior Pastor
And yet, something moved in John McCullough. As a friend put it, McCullough’s “righteous soul was vexed over much.” Rather than turn away, “John McCullough would see in this uncertain scene of desolation an opportunity to serve God.” 1 First Presbyterian Church was organized in 1846 and McCullough “became the first resident protestant minister in that outpost of civilization, preaching the gospel of truth and righteousness to a town of outlaws.” 2 He established this church in San Antonio, but his vision was bigger. He knew that teaching the Gospel in San Antonio would influence Texas and beyond. The study of “history” was a hot topic in 2020. Some might ask, Why should we even celebrate our history? Shouldn’t we just move forward? In answer, I want to share with you two thoughts. The first is from one of my mentors, Dr. John Leith.
The renewal of the church begins on a human level with an active remembrance. ...Remembering is closely related to the integrity of the church’s witness. When theology becomes preoccupied with relevance and frantic in its search for concepts and language that will appeal to modern people, it is in danger of losing its identity and therefore its power.” 3 The second quote comes from a recent article by John Meacham.
“Without Sufficient Memory, we are lost. With too much, we are captive.” 2021 must be a year for us to remember and reclaim our church’s heritage for the sake of the people and the families of the city. It must be the year for us to reach into the wilderness issues and areas and “Prepare the way of the Lord.” FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE
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On our 100th anniversary, the Reverend Dr. Patrick D. Miller told the San Antonio Express,
“It is our hope that the entire year may be used as a period for giving special thanks to God and for doing some things in our church worthy of such an occasion.” That was Miller’s understated way of saying, “this year, we want to do something worth celebrating.” This year as we celebrate our 175th year of ministry, we want to do something worth celebrating. In one of the first communications to the 175th Anniversary Committee, Co-Chair Katie Farrimond wrote:
We want the focus of all of our events to glorify God, not FPC. Let’s look back at how the last 175 years have shaped us - to understand who we are, how we got here, and where we are going. (For more about this anniversary celebration, please see Katie’s letter on page 15.) This year as we celebrate our 175th year of ministry, we want to do something worth celebrating. It will be a year to remember, but it will also be a year to reach out, reach in and reach up. San Antonio is one of the greatest cities in America and in the world. Our culture, opportunities, and history draw attention and applause from around the world. But like all cities of man, we still have some “wilderness issues.” 2020 has exposed vulnerabilities
in our social fabric, especially in families and race relations. We continue to rank highest in income disparity and the gap between our highest income zip codes and our lowest (and the living conditions that follow) is heartbreaking. For 175 years, First Presbyterian Church has been a leader in providing hope in difficult moments and 2021 will be the year for FPC to be the hands and feet of Christ. 2021 will be a year to bring the church and our people back together. 2021 will be the year for us to draw people together in the hope of Jesus Christ. 175 years ago, First Presbyterian Church was founded and designed with a mission in mind: to share the truth and love of Jesus Christ with the city of San Antonio. 4 Now, I believe that our risen Lord is calling us back to our roots, challenging us once again to “Go and make disciples—training people in the truth of God—to love Jesus Christ, to love one another, to love this city, and from here to love the world.” HAPPY NEW YEAR FPC, - REV. DR. BOB FULLER
1
Donald E. Everett, Adobe Walls to Stone Edifice, p.8
2
Donald E. Everett, Adobe Walls to Stone Edifice, p.15
3
John H. Leith, From Generation to Generation.
The first 300 years started with a Mission, so will the next. San Antonio was founded as a Mission City.
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Women of Faith Retreat
Save the Date: February 26 - 27, 2021 Location: First Presbyterian Church Register Online at fpcsanantonio.org/ women View ad on back of magazine, page 28 for more information.
Save the Date: Women's Retreat, WOC Cookbooks Reorder Presale, KRL Winter Support, Women's Wednesday Bible Study, Sunday Youth Fellowship, Youth Mission Day, Reset Gathering, Virtual Children's Choir, Pastor's Bible Study, Financial Peace University, Pray SA: 40 Days of Prayer & Fasting, Literature Circle, Children's Rodeo
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Loving the City & the World: FPC Missions 2020 Celebration Report
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Feature Article: 175th Anniversary Letter
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Loving One Another: Children's Christmas Pageant Success
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Loving One Another: KEYS January
19
Loving One Another: GriefShare Spring Session
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Loving One Another: Poinsettia Honorariums & Memorials 2020
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Loving One Another: WOC - "Great Is Thy Faithfulness!"
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Loving Christ: First Cup Readings
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Loving Christ: First Cup Prayer List
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Stay Connected: Women of Faith Retreat, Subscribe to newsletter emails, Download the mobile app
WOC Cookbooks Reorder Presale We sold out of our first order of the WOC 175th Anniversary Cookbooks! Preorder online ($25 each) for our next shipment in January at fpcsanantonio.org/cookbook. Once the next shipment arrives you may pick up your online Cookbook purchases by bringing your receipt email to the table on Sundays or coordinate with Judy Kruger at 210.857.0122 or judykruger@ sbcglobal.net.
KRL Winter Support
Thank you for your support of The Kingdom Restoration Lab (KRL) at FPC. Help fill the food and clothing pantries with necessities for our under-resourced neighbors in their journey to becoming self-sufficient: CURRENT NEEDS: Men’s and/or Women's socks and underwear (must be new)
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Jackets/coats/warm clothing (men and women)
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Casual shoes (for both men and women)
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Hygiene Kit Needs: Men’s Deodorant, Travel Size 2-in-1 Shampoo/Conditioner, Body Wipes, Razors
You may donate by shopping the Amazon wish list at http://tiny.cc/KRL-support (link is case sensitive), created by our partner, SA Hope Center. All of the items that you purchase are shipped directly to the KRL. If you are interested in volunteering for our KRL ministries, contact Lindsay at lindsays@fpcsat.org.
First Press is published monthly by the First Presbyterian Church San Antonio Communications Team. Deadline to submit content: the 15th of the previous month. Hank Cherry: Director of Communications Dorothy Hecimovich: Graphic Designer Ross Brown: Media Coordinator Questions? Contact: Hank Cherry (210-271-2728/hankc@fpcsat.org) FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE
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SAVE THE DATE
Women's Wednesday Bible Study Dates: January 6-March 17 Time: Wednesdays | 6:30 PM Location: Room 302 Contact: Sheila Figueroa, shefig@earthlink.net, 210-822-4082 Who is Jesus? Why did He come to earth? How can I know Him? We live in a world where there’s a lot of confusion about Jesus. Too often people want to shape Him and His message to fit their personal needs or agendas. So how can we know the truth? Join Seamless author Angie Smith in this 8-session search for truth as she unfolds the story of our matchless Savior— His mission, miracles, and message. Through her signature wit and accessible style, Angie unpacks Scripture in a way that’s easy to understand, regardless of how long you’ve been studying the Bible (a great option for new believers!). This study will deepen your understanding of Jesus through biblical, historical, and cultural insight and help you see Him less as an iconic figure and more as an intimate friend.
Reset Gathering Dates: Mondays 1/25, 2/7, 2/22, 3/22, 4/26, 5/24 Time: 7:00-8:15 PM Location: Westminster Hall; Online at fpcsanantonio.org/media Contact: Rev. Mitchell Moore, mitchellm@fpcsat.org Join other Young Adults and University students for a time of worship, biblical teaching, fellowship, and prayer. The RESET Gathering is a chance for us to reset our hearts, minds, and lives on knowing Jesus personally, following Jesus wholly, worshipping Jesus corporately, and serving Jesus globally. Please come check it out and visit fpcsanantonio.org/ reset for more information and to sign up.
Virtual Children's Choir Date: Begins January 6 Time: Wednesdays | 5:00 - 5:30 PM Ages: Four-5th grade. Register at fpcsanantonio.org/ childrens-choir Children's Choir strives to enrich children’s lives in three core areas: spiritual formation and growth, musical skills and personal growth. During the unique challenges of this time of the COVID pandemic, we are going virtual and will connect each week to eventually create a compiled video to share in church services.
Sunday Youth Fellowship Dates: Sundays 1/24, 2/7, 2/21, 3/21, 4/11, 4/25 Times: TBD Locations: Various Locations Contact: Alex Clary, alexc@fpcsat.org, 210-777-2433 Join the fun on Sunday evenings with other youth for socially distanced outdoor gatherings, and other fun fellowship opportunities on Sundays. Check our Instagram or contact Alex for more information.
Youth Missions Day Date: Saturday | Feb. 27 Time: All Day Contact: Alex Clary, alexc@fpcsat.org Join the FPC Youth for a day of service! Watch for more details as the date approaches or contact Alex Clary for more information.
PASTOR'S BIBLE STUDY SPRING 2021 Revelation Study Continues
Dates: Jan. 6/7 - Mar. 24/25 (no meeting on Ash Wed. 2/17, or Spring Break Mar. 10/11) Times: Wednesdays | 7:00 PM Thursdays | 9:30 AM Locations: Wed. | Covenant Hall Thursdays | Sanctuary & Online fpcsanantonio.org/pbs This spring semester, the Pastor’s Bible Study (PBS), led by Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller, will continue to grapple with the book of Revelation. Many people see the last book of the Bible as a futuristic preview of ominous warning. Revelation, however, is a book of hope for Christians of all centuries (not just the end times). Join Bob on Thursday mornings at 9:30 AM in the Sanctuary (so we can spread out), or virtually via live stream through the FPC app or fpcsanantonio.org/pbs. There will also be a special Wednesday night edition each week at 7:00 PM in Covenant Hall (no live stream on Wednesdays.) If you have any questions or to be placed with a group please contact Lellen Lane at lellenlane@aol.com or (210) 860-1395. FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE
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SAVE THE DATE
Financial Peace University Spring Class
Literature Circle
Preview Class | Wednesday, January 6 | 6:30 PM | Zoom Regular Class | Wednesdays | Jan. 13 - Mar. 17 | 6:30 PM | Online & In-Person
Date: Tuesday, January 12 Time: 1:30 PM Location: Westminster Hall & Online fpcsanantonio.org/lit-circle
No more money stress—ever! Join our Financial Peace University class, and we’ll learn how to dump debt and build wealth. The class costs $130 and gives you access to the videos and tools for an entire year. This will be a "flex" class where you may attend in person or you may watch the lessons online and complete the activities before each of our FPC Zoom Video chats where we discuss the lessons together for about 45 minutes. We will have a preview class via Zoom on January 6 at 6:30 PM for people to find out what FPU is all about. Full classes begin Wednesday, January 13 at 6:30 PM. Visit fpu.com/1129846 to sign up! Questions? Contact Morris Camp for Zoom link and more information morriscamp@gmail.com, 210-573-4433.
Pray SA: 40 Days of Prayer & Fasting Dates: January 1 - February 9, 2021 Brothers and Sisters, I am writing to invite you to join me in beginning the new year with prayer and fasting. Please sign up to join me and Christians from around the city to begin 2021 with intentional dependency on the Lord, with open hands and open hearts for His Kingdom to come and His will be done. 2020 exposed my addiction to control and specific idols of my heart. I am excited to begin 2021 by coming to my senses, shaking the dust off, and returning to the love of our Father with brothers and sisters in our city. You can sign up to join the journey HERE: www.praysa.org/40-days-of-prayer-and-fasting. The format will be simple: Daily scripture reading, daily intercession, and a daily meditation. The focus is returning to the heart of our Heavenly Father. The meditations will be written by several people in the city: retirees, organization leaders, pastors, moms, dads, business leaders... There will be four seasons: Look up, Look in, Look out, and Look up (again). I pray you will join us for all (or some) of the seasons. The fasting will be personal: Whatever the Lord leads you to abstain from (a specific food, media, snacks, utensils...) in order to orient the hungers of your heart toward Christ and His Kingdom. God's grace gives both motive and sustainable momentum for fasting. I am happy to discuss the specific burden Christ has put on my heart for fasting and feasting if you are interested. Several folks have asked me if this will replace Richly Dwelling, the daily Bible reading and meditation Lisa and I post. The answer is NO. In fact, Lisa and I hope for even more folks to join us on the journey through the Bible in 2021 as we all grow together in our hunger for Christ and His Word! You can sign up on "Today's Reading" page for daily reminders: www.richlydwelling.com. Should the Spirit lead, please share this invitation with others in your family and our Family of faith: www.praysa.org/40-days-of-prayer-and-fasting. Please let me know if you have any questions. Let us pray. Let us return to the love of our Father, together. More Mercy, Pastor Mitchell
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THE SECRETS WE KEPT, by Lara Prescott, is a novel about powerful characters: Boris Pasternak, the author of "Doctor Zhivago," an unpublished manuscript in the USSR, CIA typing pool secretaries becoming spies to steal the manuscript in order to publish and make its' way around the world. A spy novel that reveals life in a Gulag as experienced by Olga, the real life mistress of Pasternak. Reviewer, Martha Smith, will present this book for the FPC Literature Circle in-person (Westminster Hall) or taped fpcsanantonio.org/lit-circle on Tuesday, January 12, at 1:30 PM. In-person masks and social distancing are required. No refreshments will be served, but you may bring a personal bottle of drinking water. - Willie Willming, Publicity
CHILDREN’S RODEO Date: Sunday, January 31 Time: 10:00 – 11:00 AM Location: FPC Courtyard This year the Children’s Department still wants to honor families by offering an Annual Celebration of Rodeo and yet abide by the CDC guidelines. We will be offering a socially distanced mini rodeo! -
Pony Rides
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Photo Props
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Country Music
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Gold Mining
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Build your own boots/vest/hat
Due to CDC and health provider guidelines, we will not be able to serve pancakes.
G
od worked mightily through FPC missions in 2020 despite it being a year where the devastation of pain, isolation, loss, fear, and division were felt globally. As this New Year begins, we are humbled to take a look back through 2020 to see God’s faithfulness and provision, as we prayerfully anticipate how He will continue His mission of redemptive restoration through the Church in 2021.
We praise God for the innovative ways we have been able to co-labor with the global Church through our FPC Global Mission Partners! Though we have been unable to travel to be with our ministry partners in person, God has opened doors to allow us to grow in deeper relationship and serve in mission in a variety of ways.
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LOVING THE WORLD
Virtual Mission Trips and Connecting: Our desire is to grow in relationship with our ministry partners across the globe as we see how God is moving through the global Church, and discern how he has equipped us for this moment. This year, Global Mission Ministry Champion Teams were developed to help us care for, serve with, learn from, and strengthen our relationships with our FPC Global Mission Partners. While plans for summer mission trips were canceled, we were able to travel via Zoom. • We were able to “travel” with Food for the Hungry (FH) to the “El Cercadillo” Community to learn about their work toward holistic restoration in the Dominican Republic. The group enjoyed a traditional Dominican dish, fried plantains, as they connect with and prayed for this community. • Our FPC Youth students spent a week building relationships with children in Mexico through the AMO Mexico program. It was a blessing for FPC Students as they helped teach, and for the AMO students as they learned more about Jesus. • The FPC KEYS Group has also hosted several calls with our ministry partners to learn more about how God has been working through them and how our FPC might come alongside them. • Our FPC Family was able to join in a powerful time of prayer and fellowship several of our Global Mission partners from all over the world in the FPC Virtual Prayer Room! Download the Global Missions Prayer Guide at bit.ly/FPCGMPrayer.
Covid Relief FPC Global Missions was able to continue regular funding for our Global Mission Partners through 2020. In addition, financial support in excess of $125,000 was provided to our partners who were continuing to care for their communities as they shared the hope of the gospel. • Financial gifts from FPC helped YPM to complete several food distributions to families in the Yucatan through local churches. Other gifts helped our partners who were caring for ill family members, and provided medical and sanitation supplies for ministry to continue safely. Additionally, Covid relief provided scholarships for families so they could attend AMO training as they provided education for their children during lockdown.
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LOVING THE WORLD
Translation Projects Over the last year, FPC continued to partner in the work of translation through three ministries. With FPC’s support, four Reformed books were translated and published by Pars and Tolle Lege, and a team from Wycliffe is working on translations of the Bible into the Nualu language in Indonesia. We continue to pray for these ministries and the people they are able to reach with Scripture and theological resources in their native languages.
Education We believe the equipping of current and future leaders in the global Church is essential to the growth and multiplication of disciples around the world. FPC is thrilled to partner with several ministries, globally, who work to empower and equip leaders. • Instituto YPM developed the only licensed Protestant Seminary outside of Mexico City in Leona Vicario. • FPC has begun collaborating with Tolle Lege, the Reformed Church of Poland, and the College of Theology and Social Sciences in Warsaw to offer a Reformed Seminary Program in Warsaw, Poland. This is the first Seminary in Poland to offer training to evangelical and Reformed pastors. • FPC was able to provide support for a conference through Tolle Lege called “Puritans: Doctors of souls, Theologians of spirits.” In addition to financial support, our senior pastor, Bob Fuller was a featured speaker. The full conference recording can be accessed at bit.ly/TolleLegeConference. • AMO continued to train teachers online through 2020, where they trained over 800 Christians in Latin America, the Caribbean, Spain, Turkey, Canada, and the USA. • Ministries like YWAM N. Africa, Pars Theological Centre, and RPC Haiti developed ways to continue equipping leaders and discipling through online platforms as they continued to reach new believers!
Growing Churches • Genesis Presbyterian Church in Mercedes, TX, will be breaking ground on a new church building in 2021, and we look forward to celebrating with them! • We pray for God’s provision as RPC Haiti works in collaboration with other local churches to develop a national presbytery in Haiti.
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LOVING THE WORLD
Water FPC and YPM broke ground on a Clean Water System in Leona Vicario in February 2020. The installation will be completed in early January (2021) and will provide clean water to around 1,000 families daily, as it also provides work to local people. We are thankful for the opportunity to partner with YPM to bring clean water to this community as they continue to share news of the Living Water!
Mission South The Mission South Task Force has continued their work to focus on empowering the Church in Mexico and along the South Texas Border. • The Task Force was able to provide $27,000 to 35 pastors and organizations to care for their families and congregations in the wake of the pandemic and tropical storms. These gifts provided valuable support and helped us to build new relationships in the region. • The Task Force developed a scholarship program to empower seminary students in Mexico and has provided one scholarship so far. • They are prayerfully planning to host a conference to empower leaders in 2021.
As our city went into lockdown in early March, God opened doors for our FPC Family to serve with and care for our Local Mission Partners in many ways. We give thanks for our ministry partners and church family who continued to answer the call to Love Jesus Christ, Love One Another, and Love our City.
Covid Relief • We were able to respond to ministry partners including CAM, Pay It Forward, and others by providing weekly staff lunches. We also provided emergency funding to Faith Based Institute and Daily Bread Ministries who were working to provide necessary food, shelter, and resources. • Several members of our FPC Family shared hope through the Gospel as they wrote weekly devotionals that were shared with our neighbors at CAM and the SA Hope Center. CAM shared thanks as 40-50 of our neighbors eagerly received these devotionals each week. • Our church came together to care for hospital and frontline workers as we prepared over 2,500 cookies and 600 cards for the entire staff of SW General Hospital. • We were able to provide frontline workers with over 200 masks, sewn by our FPC Family. FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE 10
LOVING THE CITY
• Our FPC Family generously provided resources and encouragement to care for our neighbors through ministries such as SA Heals, YoungLives, Servant Partners, and the Kingdom Restoration Lab (KRL). • FPC’s Foster Families were cared for as the FPC L.O.V.E. Initiative team provided meals, resources, encouragement, and prayer.
The KRL The Kingdom Restoration Lab (KRL) has been serving our neighbors in collaborative, holistic ministry for two years! There has been remarkable growth in partnership through 2020 as we have been blessed with new resources to serve in a time of increased need due to the Covid Pandemic.
Connecting: • Local Mission Champions continued to strengthen relationships with our Local Mission partners as they reached out regularly to share encouragement and prayer as they learned how our FPC Family might come alongside in mission. • The Local Missions Encouragement Project is helping us to connect with our Local Mission Partners as we care for the staff of each of our Local Mission Partners. Our FPC Family has written over 450 cards for four ministries, and we look forward to continuing to reach all of our ministry partners in 2021!
• Through 2020, we have had over 2,500 appointments with over 750 being with new guests. • As the SA Hope Center has added staff members to serve increasing needs in jobs and housing, Any Woman Can has increased their capacity to provide counseling and care to our neighbors. The KRL has also grown in partnership as we have welcomed Canines for Christ, YoungLives, and STCH (formerly South Texas Children's Home) Ministries. • The SA Hope Center received a grant for over $340,000 from the State of Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) to provide rapid rehousing. This grant is historic for our congregation, empowering of our mission, and affirming of the steps of faith we have taken as a church! (read the full story at bit. ly/KRLHousing). • FPC served in collaborative outreach with the SA Hope Center, South Alamo Regional Alliance for the Homeless, CAM, Canines for Christ, Chris Madrid’s, Any Woman Can, Haven for Hope, The Faith Based Institute, KLOVE, the SA Christian Dental Clinic, and the FPC Prayer Committee during Hunger and Homelessness Awareness week to bring awareness to our church and the city, and to serve our neighbors. • Any Woman Can partnered with the KRL to share in food, fellowship, and prayer with our neighbors just before Christmas. Any Woman Can provided 300 meals from Heavenly Q BBQ! • The Chalmer’s Center, a leader in equipping churches to address the root causes of poverty, wrote a feature article affirming the Lords work through KRL. Read the full article at bit.ly/ChalmersKRL. FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE
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LOVING THE CITY
RTC The Redeeming the Crisis Task Force (RTC) was developed in 2020 to empower care for individuals and families in our congregation and city who are afflicted by casualties cascading from the Covid-19 Crisis. As the task force continues to learn and discern needs and opportunities, collaboration teams led by FPC Covenant Partners are focused on holistic restoration in our congregation and city in the areas of: Spiritual Gifts Assessment and Deployment, Financial Health, Work Transitions, Mental Health, Children and Families in our Congregation, Children and Families in our City, Marriage, and Neighbors and Neighborhood. As our teams continue to prayerfully discern next steps, here are some celebrations from 2020: • The FPC Spiritual Gifts and Talents Survey has been completed by nearly 100 of our Covenant Partners. It is our prayer that our Covenant Partners are blessed as they learn more about how God has equipped them to serve in this moment, and in the life of FPC! • 22 FPC Covenant Partners were empowered as they learned how to be intentional with the resources God has provided through Financial Peace University. Class members came from every age and life cycle and started taking steps toward goals for financial health, empowering them and their relationships. • There are currently eight team members being trained in NAMI’s Bridges of Hope Program to learn how our Church can better care for those affected by mental illness. We are also thrilled to welcome STCH Ministries onto the FPC Campus in 2021! • FPC, along with Unicity and Decade of Family, hosted the State of Family Forum to hear from leaders as the Church was called to discern their role in caring for families. • An immediate impact during the Covid Pandemic was to open a Virtual Learning Site on FPC’s campus. Several FPC Volunteers were able to teach these children through the Fall Semester as the children's parents returned to work. • FPC participated in a food drive and served with Catholic Charities to distribute food to 1,061 families and 4,606 total people served. An estimated 75,000 pounds of food were given out! • As the KRL re-opened, FPC was able to respond to needs in our city with a $90,000 gift to hire a Security Host and a Job Readiness professional through the SA Hope Center.
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LOVING THE CITY
KRL Celebration Stories • Chris, the KRL Security Host, is a blessing as he shares in the burden of caring for our neighbors as they seek resources and care in the KRL. • Trish Sicari joined the staff of the SA Hope Center as a Job Specialist in the KRL. God has blessed this role through several job placements! • Randy, pictured to the right (with Abby, our new K-9 for Christ volunteer), went through the KRL job readiness training with Trish (and Chris gave him a haircut as a reward). Randy was placed in a job as a security guard and after the first week, the company contacted Trish and asked for more workers like Randy! • An FPC elder asked if the KRL could contact a warehouse he works with that was in need of employees. Within a week the KRL placed workers there!
FPC MINISTRY PARTNERS Global
Local
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Agape, Russia The Antioch Partners (International) Antonio Alvarez, Mission South Ashraf Abdou, YWAM N. Africa Chris and Francelia McReynolds, AMO Mexico Cristina Inchaustegui, AMO Latin America and the Caribbean Food for the Hungry (El Cercadillo, DR) Genesis Presbyterian Church, Mercedes, TX (Mission South) George and Anne Harper, AIM Philippines IJM, DR Steve and Barbara Johnson, YWAM Budapest, Hungary Mission India Pars Theological Centre Partnerships in Asia Partnerships with Mexican Seminaries (Mission South) Reformed Church of Poland RPC Haiti Tolle Lege Institute, Poland Vets With A Mission, Vietnam WSTS – College of Theology, Poland World Renew, International Wycliffe Bible Translators, Nuaulu Project, Indonesia Yucatan Peninsula Mission, Mexico
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Any Woman Can Christian Assistance Ministry (CAM) Faith Based Institute (FBI) Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Habitat for Humanity Haven for Hope Mission Road Morningside Ministries National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) One by One Ministries Presbyterian Children's Home and Services (PCHAS) Pay it Forward The SA Christian Dental Clinic SA Heals The SA Hope Center The San Antonio Marriage Initiative (SAMI) San Antonio Metropolitan Ministries (SAMM) School Connect Servant Partners South Texas Alliance for Orphans (STAFO) The Porch Young Life and YoungLives San Antonio Central The Kingdom Restoration Lab (KRL) The FPC L.O.V.E. Initiative
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Dear Church Family, As we open 2021, we are faced with a new year full of promise and hope. Each new year I am reminded of one of my favorite “Louis Zbinden” sermons – “What to Take with You and What to Leave Behind.” If that wasn’t the title, it was the crux of the message. An illustration he used was of an Olympic runner being timed by his coach. A bystander commented on how fast the runner was going. The coach replied, “Yes, but imagine how fast he would be if he would take off all his medals!” Dad talked about how we cannot rest on our laurels, as it were, rather we need to take off our medals, and strive for more. He also reminded us that we need to leave behind all past bitterness and regret. We need to take with us the promises of God, the hope he gives us each day, and the joy of knowing him, serving him, and sharing him. With that being said, we begin our year of celebrating our 175th Anniversary as a church. Our committee has taken a look back at how the last 175 years have shaped us – to understand who we are, how we got here, and where we are going. I’m sure you have all noticed on the back of our bulletin that the Ministers of the Church are – The Congregation. We will be celebrating the acts of the congregation of our church that have impacted others for the glory of God, and how we can build on those acts and move forward. Our committee has adopted Acts 2:42-47 as our theme passage: 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Our hope is that our anniversary celebration will touch on FPC’s call to be the memory of our city, the conscience of our city, the heart of our city, the mentor for the city, and voice to share the Good News of Jesus Christ to the city. We have developed a calendar of events for the year, to include worship events, fellowship events, educational events, publications, and projects. Some of these events are brand new and specifically designed for celebrating our 175 years, and some are a return of events with an updated twist intended to reach out in our current cultural environment. Please look in your bulletin and newsletters for these events as they unfold. And so, as we enter 2021, let’s try to leave behind past events that weigh us down, and take with us the wit and the will to strive for a deeper connection to our Lord and each other through service and celebration. Happy 175th! Katie Farrimond Co-Chair, 175th Anniversary Committee
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LOVING ONE ANOTHER
Children's Christmas Pageant Success! Dear FPC Family, on Sunday, Dec 13th the Children’s Ministry was proud to present our hybrid version of the annual Christmas Pageant in a drive-thru setting. The event took place in our Ave E parking lot. Families from FPC actively participated as characters in the pageant and several church Covenant Partners volunteered their time to help pull it off! We had friendly greeters to welcome guests and pass out programs and Christmas treats. The most exciting thing about this event was that we had many people come through who saw the Christmas Story played out in real life! I’m once again humbled by the participation from our FPC family; the blessings continue to unfold. May God be glorified and His glory bring many to Him. Rozlyn Miller - Ministry Director to Children and their Families
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LOVING ONE ANOTHER
REV. DR. JOE MOORE Minister for older adults and congregational care.
Keeping EVERYONE Young in Spirit Remember, KEYS is not an exclusive club for older adults. Everyone is welcome to attend on Fridays and to join us on other activities as well, “Keeping EVERYONE Young in Spirit.”
H
appy New Year!!! Wow what a ride through 2020!! I am so proud of our KEYS group who have stayed strong and learned to Zoom. I brag about y’all often and how we have averaged 25 devices logged into our Zoom meetings. We enjoyed a diversity of topics with many entertaining and educational speakers. As always if you have any suggestions for future speakers send them my way. I am waiting on several confirmations for January; however, we will kick off the year on January 8th with Dr. Junda Woo. Dr. Woo is the Medical Director of the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District. You have likely seen her many times over the past year in the news and with the Mayor. She will have the most up to date information on the Covid-19 virus and vaccine. FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE18 18
We meet on Fridays at 11:00 AM Zoom meeting ID 570 618 8075 Link: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/5706188075 No Password Necessary If you need help with Zoom feel free to contact me @ 802-7342329 or joem@fpcsat.org Join the Email Mailing List Receive a weekly email update on who is speaking and a link to connect directly to Zoom by sending me, Joe Moore ( joem@ fpcsat.org) your email address to be added to our list. AARP Safe Driving Class Several of you have asked about renewing your AARP discount. I checked early on in this pandemic and I was informed that no classes will be offered via Zoom. However, if your AARP Safe Driving Class insurance discount is expiring, you can take the class online at www. aarpdriversafety.org.
Friday Fitness with Jacqi Crow We were fortunate to find Jacqueline Crow to conduct an online via Zoom fitness program for us. We received her contact information through Morningside Manor. All reviews of Jacqi’s class have been glowing. Someone said, "she does such a good job online, I can’t wait until we can continue in person." Topic: Friday Fitness Time: Fridays at 9:30 AM Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6 199532743?pwd=aHRoaWN ZdWtpMXJFa3dHSWVCYkl1 UT09 Meeting ID: 619 953 2743 Passcode: Strength
Sundays at 10:00 AM January 10 - April 4
The journey of grief is a painful process, and you do not need to walk it alone. We would like to encourage you to come to the special seminar and support group GriefShare. The materials specifically address topics and issues for those who are grieving the death of a loved one. GriefShare is a 13-week video based support group. We are offering this group during the Sunday School hour beginning January 10th through April 4th. Although the series focuses on personal loss of a loved one, it can be very helpful to friends or family coming alongside those who have experienced loss. We all have and will experience loss; GriefShare can speak into our lives. Everyone is welcome to participate in this special Sunday School Hour of GriefShare. For more information contact Joe Moore at joem@fpcsat.org.
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Her Thursday morning Bible Study Group With love Emily Peeples
Christmas
Jennifer and Frank Sammis Julie Norton-Keidel
POINSETTIAS
The Gordon Smith Family Shelly and Marshall Harrell
2020
Marie and Paul Smith Paul Smith Jennings, Harrison and Tripp Our beloved Chaney Stuart
Given by... In honor of Kay Beth and David Barr Kesler and Noelle Barr Pearce Brunner Jackson
Kathy Timberlake My grandchildren: Evan, Annabelle, Ladd And Camilla
Nancy Beeson My Father
Bette C. Turner Judi Trotti and Marjorie
Mary and Mike Benedum Elaine Dunlap
Janet Wernli The ministers and staff of FPC
Brian Berryman Family Martha and Gordon Smith
Mrs. Jess Y. Womack II Mrs. Clark Munroe Mrs. George Kampmann
Ann and Chuck Bunn Lillian Ann Lehr
WOC Circle 1/12 Suzanne Thomas
Myna Gathers Swisher County Seniors Tireless work cross stitching Texas Flag face masks
WOC Circle 9 Deacon Jean Swanson Janie and Jim Worth Paul H. Smith
Lilly and Alan Gretzinger Janie and Jim Worth Janet and Boxy Hornberger Our grandsons: Conrad and Wallace Fry Corbett Hornberger
Given by...In memory of
Pat and Buddy Johnson Healthcare and Essential Workers
Barbara and Dennis Anderson Christopher Anderson
Judy and Barry Kruger Our children, Wesley and Janis
Janet and Greg Anderson and family Mr. and Mrs. C.J. Anderson Dr. James E. Bauerle Dr. Claude Nabers Rev. Dr. Louis H. Zbinden, Jr.
Laura Page Betsy Baker
Dr. Anna C. Armstrong Mr. and Mrs. Raymond H. Armstrong
Paula and Clyde Johnson Loved Ones
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The Archer Family Robert R. Archer Anita N. Lindsay Pearl N. Nordan Betsy and Wally Baker Rev. Dr. Louis H. Zbinden, Jr. Nancy Beeson My Mother Mary and Mike Benedum Our Parents
Elaine Dunlap Rev. Dr. Louis H. Zbinden, Jr. Eva and Jim Eckburg Jane and Robert Eckburg Maria and Hans Wiedemann The Embs Girls and their families Sallie W. and Lowell D. Embs Kenneth P. Finch Jeannette “Jenny” Finch
Brian Berryman Family Betty Collins
Patsy Johnson Dan Johnson Jean and Frank Stampp
Debby & J.D. Bowen Dr. and Mrs. Richard G. Ryan
Elizabeth Kreager Ralph Lehr
Laura Moore Brusenhan Estella McNab Moore Charles Monroe Moore Harry Hammet Brusenhan
Grace Labatt Grace Bramlette Gloria and Blair Labatt
Jane Buchek John Buchek
Lillian Ann Lehr Ralph Lehr Rev. Dr. Louis H. Zbinden, Jr.
Ann and Chuck Bunn Ralph Lehr Mary and Charles Bunn
Janice and Walt Magnus Our parents
Mrs. George Burkholder Dr. George Veeder Burkholder Dr. & Mrs. Theodore M. Burkholder Mr. & Mrs. Richard B. Schneider Mrs. Margaret Burkholder Wetzel Rachel and Aaron Buster Salena and Gary Buster
Joyce and Jess Mayfield Our loving parents Patricia and Richard McCleary Our beloved parents Dear long time friends: Isabel and George Smith
Her Grandson, Jake Carter Emma Roy
Charlotte Bell Milner Martha and Dick Bell Luke Warrick Rev. Dr. Louis H. Zbinden, Jr.
His Family Will Carter
Diana Morehouse and family Loved Ones
Bob Collins Elizabeth “Betty” Collins
Debby Neighbarger and Family Lois and Dean Elson, my parents
Elizabeth and Carter Crites Jane and Tom Benesch
Meredith and John Park Her mother, Totsey Caughey
Laura A. Davis Mr. and Mrs. Frank C. Davis, Jr.
The Page Family John W. Buchek Rev. Dr. Louis H. Zbinden, Jr.
Jeanne Douglas Gary E. Douglas George A. Knapp
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Emily and David Peeples Homer and Ada Peeples Dr. and Mrs. Robert H. Bullock, Sr.
Neil Williams My parents, Paul & Helen Williams Kay Kutchins
Dolores Perrine My Husband, Robert E. Perrine
Willie Willming and family Ed Willming
His loving family Brad Pigeon
Jean Rogers Winchell Mary Jean and Napier Rogers, my parents Leroy Yarbrough
Bill & Linda Ruhmann Brad Ruhmann Linda and Mark Rittenhouse and family Dr. & Mrs. Norman H. Jacob, Jr. Jennifer and Frank Sammis Lenora and Malcolm Norton Jerry and Frank Sammis, Jr.
Mrs. Jess Y. Womack II Helen Morris Williamson Jess Y. Womack II Clark Munroe George Kampmann Edwyna Yarbrough and family Dr. Leroy Yarbrough
Brook and Laura Brusenhan Smith Harry H. Brusenhan
Holly and David Youngquist Luke Warrick Rev. Dr. Louis H. Zbinden, Jr.
Dr. Donna E. Smith Dr. and Mrs. Don Smith Marie and Paul Smith Anne Bruce Smith The Stuart Family Luke Warrick Helen Tafel Louise and Joe Ruck Suzanne and John Thomas Thomas B. Burns Mr. and Mrs. R.C. Thomas Bette C. Turner John W. Turner Jane, Robert and Liam Spence Warren Spence Warren Bryan Warren Jakey and Martin Weilbacher Bucko and Bobby Price Ruth and Emil Weilbacher Janet Wernli Fritz Wernli Carol and David West Lois and Dean Elson Rev. George Sturch Rev. Dr. Louis H. Zbinden, Jr.
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The Personnel Committee recognizes FPC Staff members who have lost loved ones in 2020 Omalara Ayinde Mary Montez (2) Juanita Martinez Nancy Chavarria Jennifer Amador (Ann) Lillian Rendon Crystal Forbes-Gabel (4) Janie Jimenez Hank Cherry (2) Sheila Figueroa Dorothy Hecimovich (2) Tom Dooling (2) Rev. Scott Simpson Jeff Carawan Maurilio Garza, Sr. Maurilio Garza, Jr. Rev. Becky Prichard Rozlyn Miller Patsy Lugo Greg Slayden (6) Janet Slayden (6) Brittanie Salazar Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller
LOVING ONE ANOTHER BETSY ZACHRY
President, Women of the Church
WOMEN OF THE CHURCH
"GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS!"
I
am sure I am not the only one who welcomes a fresh start with the beginning of a new year. For me, it is a much-needed re-focus on drawing closer to God by listening more intently to the Holy Spirit. I confess that over the last month and a half life has been in high-gear, and at times I could not hear myself think (much less discern that still, small voice—I Kings 19:12) above the surrounding noise. I love Thanksgiving and Christmas, but I recognize I am often distracted from the true meaning of both these celebrations.
• Thank you to Cassie McMillan and Janet Pritchett for the success of Gift of Christmas. FPC and friends from outside of our Church provided Christmas gifts and Christ’s love to 30 families from House of Neighborly Services. Diane Carssow has also done a wonderful job of ensuring 14 children from Presbyterian Children’s Home and Services (PCHAS) received gifts for Christmas.
Thankfully, I am surrounded by strong Christians rooted in their faith. They are wonderful mentors whether they recognize this or not. I know the Lord has brought them into my life and I am so thankful for their presence.
• Many of our members enthusiastically supported Local Missions’ initiative to write a postcard thanking every individual serving with four of our mission partners throughout San Antonio.
While we have much to look forward to in the new year, there are so many people I wish to thank for their humble service to others this past month:
• New Circle 20 Chair, Muffin Camp, has transitioned this service circle into a ‘meal train’ circle since COVID has curtailed the normal work of this group. Members provide a hearty meal for families with newborns, foster families, and those dealing with illness or recuperating from surgery. Gifts of food is our love-language and Muffin welcomes anyone wishing to serve!
• Janice Wilson and her assistant, Laura Johnstone, redesigned the Morningside Manor Christmas parties into a safe reminder of our love for the sweet residents. Gift bags (110) filled with necessities and treats were provided for every single person!
• The loving notes written by Judith McNeel
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LOVING ONE ANOTHER
As I close, I am reminded that God gives us new beginnings with each dawn—the beautiful hymn, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” by Thomas Chisholm (Lamentations 3:23), reminds us of God’s great mercies showered down upon His children. The refrain is filled with truth and comfort: Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness! and Nancy Puckett to everyone in our Church family needing a word of encouragement or sympathy is a whole ministry unto itself. Hundreds of personal notes are sent over the course of the year and WOC is deeply indebted to them. • Karin Gabrielson faithfully orchestrated a feast of appreciation and celebration on Christmas Eve for the choir and staff. She has this down to a science of the exact needs and amounts and graciously pulls everything together with a few helpers.
Morning by morning new mercies I see: All I have needed thy hand hath provided— Great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me! The world seeks to distract while God, the Father, directs our focus with laser precision on His Son. We have the opportunity to serve and to honor God with each new day. A new year has begun, let us seek to serve as we are called. Questions about WOC? Contact Betsy Zachry at betsyz@swbell.net or 210-262-1236.
CIRCLE 20 OUTREACH Several Circle 20 members reached out to serve in the community in October at a local organization, Children's Hunger Fund. We learned more about the organization and participated in a school supplies pack for children who were affected by a recent hurricane. A socially distanced setup allowed the volunteers to assemble special boxes filled with supplies and goodies that were shipped to Louisiana. Helping hands, hearts and love needed to serve others in our church and surrounding community. Join Circle 20 as we provide meals to others and serve in our community. Email muffincamp@gmail.com to be added to the email list to receive opportunities to serve! FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE 24
Pictured: Muffin Camp, Judy Kruger, Holly Youngquist and Susie Patterson. We will participate in another service outing again! Contact Muffin Camp at muffincamp@gmail.com to get involved.
LOVING ONE ANOTHER
WOMEN OF THE CHURCH
January Circle Schedule - Dates & Locations May Change Due to COVID Circle Number Circle 1/12
Circle Theme Bible Circle
Regular Meeting Info
Additional Info
3rd Monday | 10:30 AM FPC Geneva Room
Circle chairs will be in contact with details.
Circle 5
Shawl Ministry
3rd Friday | 10:00 AM FPC Room 228
Circle chairs will be in contact with details.
Circle 6
Bible Circle
3rd Tuesday | 1:30 PM FPC Geneva Room
Circle chairs will be in contact with details.
Circle 7
Bible Circle
3rd Tuesday | 11:30 AM
Will be meeting by Zoom until further notice.
Circle 8
Mom's Group
1st Tuesday | 7:30 PM Various Locations
Circle chairs will be in contact with details.
Circle 9
Bible Circle
3rd Tuesday | 10:30 AM
Will be meeting by Zoom until further notice.
Circle 11
Bible Circle
4th Monday | 6:30 PM
Will be meeting by Zoom until further notice.
Circle 13
Literature Circle
January 12 | 1:00 PM | Westminster Hall Open to women & men; & fpcsanantonio.org/lit-circle January Book: The Secrets We Kept by Lara Prescott
Circle 14
Bible Circle
4th Monday | 12:00 PM FPC St. Andrew’s Room
Circle 18
Circle of Concern
No formal meetings: Opportunity for service throughout the year
Circle 20
Circle of Service
No formal meetings: Opportunity for service throughout the year
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Circle chairs will be in contact with details.
LOVING CHRIST
FIRST CUP READINGS JANUARY, 2021 Dear Family in Christ,
First Cup is designed to assist you in the habit of daily Bible reading and prayer. The name is to remind you that as you reach for your first cup of morning coffee or tea, reach also for your Bible and prayer list. The prayers at the beginning of each week are taken from hymns, sometimes found in obscure hymnals in my library. They are intended to be read as your beginning prayer, to focus your mind on the daily readings that follow. May this spiritual discipline strengthen you as you face each day.
Blessings and love in Christ, Sandy Sturch
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.— Psalm 143:8
1 2
Ecclesiastes 1; Psalm 49 Ecclesiastes 2; Matthew 6:19-34
When I survey the wondrous cross, on which the Prince of glory died, my riches gain I count but loss, and pour contempt on all my pride. Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast, save in the death of Christ my God; All the vain things that charm me most, I sacrifice them to His blood. Were the whole realm of nature mine, that were a present far too small; Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all. (The Baptist Hymnal, #99) 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Ecclesiastes 3; Matthew 16:24-28; 25:31-46; 1 Peter 4:1-11 Ecclesiastes 4; Proverbs 15:16; 27:10 Ecclesiastes 5; Psalm 66:13-14; Proverbs 20:25; 1 Timothy 6:6-10; James 1:9-11 Ecclesiastes 6; Philippians 1:3-30 Ecclesiastes 7; Proverbs 7:6-27; Romans 3:10-20; Psalm 119:9-11 Ecclesiastes 8; Psalm 92; Romans 11:33-36 Ecclesiastes 9; Psalm 34; Philippians 1:21
Give of your best to the Master; Give him first place in your heart; Give him first place in your service; consecrate every part. Give, and to you shall be given. God His beloved Son gave. Gratefully seeking to serve Him, give Him the best that you have. Give of your best to the Master; naught else is worthy His love. He gave Himself for your ransom, gave up His glory above; laid down His life without murmur, you from sin’s ruin to save. Give Him your heart’s adoration; Give Him the best that you have. (Worship in Song, #340) 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Ecclesiastes 10; Proverbs 15; James 3 Ecclesiastes 11; Proverbs 11:24; 1 Timothy 4:6-16 Ecclesiastes 12; Psalm 146 Psalm 1; 2 Timothy 3 Psalm 2; Proverbs 1:20-33 Psalm 3; Proverbs 3 Psalm 4; Ephesians 4:26-27; James 1:19-27
Soldiers of Christ, arise, And put your armor on, strong in strength which God supplies through His eternal Son. Strong in the Lord of Hosts and in His mighty power, Who in the strength of Jesus trusts is more than conqueror. Leave no unguarded place, No weakness
of the soul; Take every virtue, every grace, and fortify the whole. From strength to strength go on; wrestle, and fight, and pray; Tread all the powers of darkness down, and win the well-fought day. (The Hymnbook, # 362) 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Psalm 5; 107 Psalm 6; Hebrews 12:1-13 Psalm 7; Jeremiah 12 Psalm 8; Genesis 1-2:3; Hebrews 2; Philippians 2:1-11 Psalm 9; Proverbs 23:17-18; Revelation 6:9-11 Psalm 10; Romans 3:9-20 Psalm 11; Jeremiah 17:5-18 James 1:12
I love the Lord, His strength is mine; He is my God, I trust His grace; My fortress high, my shield divine, My Saviour and my hiding place. From God the victory I receive; Most perfect is His holy way; His word is tried, they who believe Will find the Lord their shield and stay. For who is God, and strong to save, Beside the Lord, our God of might? ‘Tis He that makes me strong and brave, The Lord who guides my steps aright. (The Hymnbook, #370) 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Psalm 12; James 3 Psalm 13; Habakkuk 3 Psalm 14; Romans 3:9-4:8 Psalm 15; Ephesians 4:17-5:21 Psalm 16; 73 Psalm 17; Job 23:10-12 Psalm 18
The heavens declare Thy glory Lord; In every star Thy wisdom shines; But when our eyes behold thy Word, we read Thy name in fairer lines. The rolling sun, the changing light, And nights and days, Thy power confess; But the blest Volume Thou hast writ Reveals Thy justice and Thy Grace. Sun, moon, and stars convey Thy praise Round the whole earth, and never stand; so when Thy truth began its race, It touched and glanced on every land. Nor shall Thy spreading gospel rest till through the world Thy truth has run; Till Christ has all the nations blest that see the light, or feel the sun. (The Hymnbook, # 259) 31 Psalm 19; Psalm 119:97-112
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LOVING CHRIST
FIRST CUP PRAYER LIST
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. (Romans 8:26).
Date
Name of Person
Request
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God’s Answer
WOMEN OF FAITH RETREAT February 26-27, 2021 First Presbyterian Church Register now at fpcsanantonio.org/women
Join women of all ages for a time of connection, fun, and worship as together we look at our identity as beloved daughters of God and what it means to live our lives in response to God’s love for us. Rev. Kristin Huffman will be our speaker. Contact Rev. Becky Prichard at beckyp@fpcsat.org for more information.
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