Vision Statement 2015
Click here for the complete statement.
Lectionary Bible Study
Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. - noon in the Church Parlor
The Lectionary Bible Study is held weekly in the church library.
Upcoming Adult Sunday Education Workshops
January 22, 2012, 11:20 am-12:30 pm, Reception Room
The Church's Place in Environmental Action - Dr. Gretel Van Wieren, Instructor in the Religious Studies Department, MSU
Explore one of her specialties, environmental ethics, and see how local churches can make a positive impact on the world around us. A Michigan native, Dr. Van Wieren recently received her Ph.D. from Yale University, where she also studied for her Master of Divinity. In addition, she has degrees from St. Olaf College and Cornell University. As a lover of both Nature and the Church, she will use Biblical and theological resources to show how these come together. Another of her interests is medical ethics, and we hope to have her return sometime along with others to explore this important issue.
January 29, 2012, 11:20 am-12:30 pm, Reception Room
That Old Presbyterian Paradox of Predestination - Charlie Herrick, Parish Associate
This topic is part of a series in "Basic Presbyterian Beliefs." This Christian doctrine has been identified especially with the Calvinist/Reformed tradition in which we Presbyterians stand. But it has deep roots in Scripture, and in Augustine and Luther, among others. John Calvin gave predestination its classic statement, but in the century after him it evolved into a more rigid, philosophical cast. It was partly in reaction to this unbiblical stereotype that certain other Protestant denominations, such as Methodism and Universalism, had their rise. Predestination was softened within American Presbyterianism as far back as 1903, and it is by no means considered the central doctrine of our faith that many once held it to be. Come and learn more and add your views. As a resource for this and future themes, be sure to pick up your free copy of the special Presbyterians Today issue, and read it ahead of this session.
February 5, 2012, 11:20 am-12:30 pm, Reception Room
Searching for Family Roots - Willye Bryan for the Lansing Area African American Genealogy Society (LAAAGS)
LAAAGS seeks to promote the preservation of African American family history, assist members in their genealogical research, conduct educational programs to acquaint members and the general public with various methods and resources of genealogical and family history research, and to assist members in utilizing the various methods and resources unique to African American genealogical research. This presentation, led by past president Willye Bryan with contributions from additional LAAAGS members, will center generally on genealogy how-to's. Specifics will concentrate on African American genealogical research. Severe road blocks confront African Americans in finding accentors. Slavery and discrimination are the major offenders. Come and learn how researching one's family history works for African Americans.
LOCAL MISSIONS AND MINISTRIES
Mission Committee - Servants and Service Program
The Mission Committee is starting a new venture to serve members and others in the community. A table, during coffee hour, will be staffed with Mission Committee members and supply information about local, national and international mission opportunities. We will be looking for interested people who would like to serve in some capacity, through the church and to the local, national and international communities.
The hope is to link projects and learning opportunities to people who are interested in information and/or serving.
Another opportunity includes people from our own congregation who need a little help now and then. Remember the song lyrics…”I get by with a little help from my friends…?” Well, we intend to be that help and be those friends! At the new Mission Table, we will keep a listing of “community-based projects.” These projects will come from within our own community and be available for small groups and/or individuals to serve by meeting those needs.
Two-Cents-A-Meal or Cents-ability
Cents-ability is a step against hunger and poverty. Contribute two cents per person per meal as an expression of thanksgiving. One hundred persons in a congregation would raise $180 a month and $2,160 a year for food bank and hunger programs.
Fair Trade Coffee
The Presbyterian Coffee Project helps small-scale farmers in Latin America, Africa, Asia and the U.S. as they build a better future for themselves and their families. Through the project, farmers earn a fair price for their products, have access to affordable credit, and gain a long-term trading partner they can trust - a Fair Trade Organization called Equal Exchange. With your support, these communities invest in education, health care, and agricultural improvements. Fair Trade coffee is served at all church functions.
Card Ministry
Postage Stamps Needed!
(This ministry supports our friends in Christ unable to attend worship.) Our faithful “Card Lady” needs some assistance. She has plenty of cards but could use donations of first class postage stamps to mail cards to members of the church family who are mostly home-bound. If you can spare some stamps, please bring them to the church office, marked “Card Lady.” Thank you!
Food Bank Special Needs:
Stovetop Stuffing mix, Jello (pudding or gelatin), 15-oz. cans of peas, beets and carrots, large cans or bottles of orange, apple, grape and berry juices, regular size brown paper bags - drop off at West entrance in marked bins. Cash and checks are also appreciated. Make checks out to First Presbyterian Church with the notation, "Food Bank."
Labels for Education
Collect the wrappers or caps of Campbell products and drop in the receptacles at the West entrance.
Empties-4-Cash
This program earns money from recycling printer cartridges to support youth mission trips. Receptacles are at the West entrance.
PC(USA) Website for Children - Kids 4 Kids
Did you know that the PC(USA) has a website designed specifically for young children? The ministry of Child Advocacy has just launched a new design of Kids 4 Kids. This colorful, interactive and educational site is suitable for ages 8 to 12 and is designed to empower children on behalf of other children. The site features stories, games and a tool kit where children can learn about other ministries of the PC(USA). To visit the site: Kids 4 Kids.Holiday Baskets
Christmas and Thanksgiving Food Baskets
First Church provided 100 Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets for local familis.
Heifer Project
You can support this program by providing opportunities for your child to earn money around the house that they can donate to this very worthy cause. Thank you!
Visioning 2015
Education
Hospitality and Inclusiveness
Caring for Members
Supporting Mission
Four key ministry areas have been identified which have developed into four workgroups for study and recommendation to the congregation. The four Visioning Teams are Education, Hospitality and Inclusiveness, Member Care and Supporting Mission. Details to follow.