Where was God?

As I write this, there is a constant stream of media surrounding the relief efforts in Haiti.  A common question during times of tragedy is, “Where was God?” during this.  Our faith tells us that while God was not in the disaster; God was and continues to be present in the relief efforts occurring.  God is present in the hands treating the injured, preparing food for the hungry, and comforting the frightened.  God is present in the help being sent by individuals, organizations, and governments. 

God is present in way we, as His church, responds to emergencies and disasters regardless of the location:

  • Across a body of water in a place like Haiti
  • Across the country in New Orleans
  • Across the state line in eastern Iowa during flooding
  • Within our own state at the Hallam tornado
  • Within our own city in the tornados of 1975 and 1913

There are many ways we as a church can be God’s presence during times of disaster and tragedy, ways we can show care and compassion to people who have had the world pulled out from under them. 

If you have a feeling of being pulled towards joining a team of compassionate responders during times of tragedy and disaster, please talk to Pastor David or myself.  We are currently beginning to look at coordinating some team training for people who are interested in this type of ministry.  The time to be trained for the next emergency is now, join us in preparing to help our neighbors during their times of trial.

                                                                       In Him,    Pastor Jon

Posted February 4, 2010, 12:45 am | Comments Off 

Join us for Lenten Services at First Presbyterian Church each Wednesday beginning with Ash Wednesday, February 17.  Dinner will be at  5:45 p.m. with worship and communion starting at 6:30 p.m. At each midweek service, the sermon will focus on a different phrase in the Lord’s Prayer.    We say the Lord’s Prayer automatically, but to really understand those words is an opportunity you can’t miss. Come and join us for an enjoyable Lenten season.  Mark your calendars today for these special services!

Posted January 26, 2010, 10:22 am | Comments Off 

Haiti PDA

As God’s people, we are called to stand in the “GAP” — Give, Act, Pray.

GiveFinancial support for relief efforts can be designated to DR000064. Gifts can be made online, by phone at (800) 872-3283, or by check. Gifts by check may be given through your local Presbyterian congregation or mailed to Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), P.O. Box 643700, Pittsburg, PA  15264-3700. Please include the designated giving account number on your check.

Act — Make Gift of the Heart kits. Congregations and individuals can assembly hygiene kits and baby kits. Instructions are on the PDA Web site. Advocate for Temporary Protected Status for Haitians.  Information can be found on the Presbyterian Washington Office Web site. Stay informed. Visit the PDA Web site for answers to frequently asked questions and for resources to aid in discussions.

Pray — You can join with others in lifting up the people of Haiti and those seeking to provide aid in this critical time.

Posted January 17, 2010, 5:08 pm | 1 Comment 

 

Financial Peace Universtiy

What does the Bible have to say about money?

Financial Peace University is a biblically-based class that teaches your family how to manage their resources in a godly manner. God has given us more than 800 scriptures showing us how to handle money His way!

Proverbs 22:7

“The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.”

Classes held Sundays in Knox Hall from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Lunch will be served.

Cost: $99 Membership Kit & Class

The Financial Peace University Member Kit includes

  • Financial Peace University Workbook
     13 life-changing lessons designed to be worth $2,000-$3,000 in information and education
  • All 13 Lessons on CD
    Listen to the lessons anytime, or use them as a refresher once you’ve completed the program
  • Dave’s best-selling book, Financial Peace Revisited
    Over a million have benefited from these solid financial principles of common-sense money management
  • Financial Peace University Envelope System
    Easy cash management envelope system
  • Budgeting Forms
    Complete set of monthly budgeting forms and examples
  • UPDATED Financial Peace University Bonus CD
    Includes financial calculator, screen saver and more!
  • Two Debit Card Holders
    Helps you stop busting your budget!
  • Tip Cards
    Easy reference guides for you to use when you go out
  • Member Resource Center (MRC)
    Information about how to get started in the MRC, a free online tool with exclusive clips, stories, assignments, forums, and much more

For more information on this class or the next class contact our FPU Coordinators:
Aaron or NeEtta Gillespie at 402-554-4774
or Reverend David Paul at 402-203-6400.

Scholarships are available.

Posted December 14, 2009, 2:18 pm | Comments Off 

The year 2010 brings the celebration of 150 years of First Presbyterian Church.  There are many activities planned throughout the year.  One of the major activities is our dinner on October 9, 2010.  If you are interested in attending this celebration, contact the church at (402) 345-5383 or (402) 551-9747.  We would love to have former members and friends of First Presbyterian Church attend this celebration.  

Posted December 2, 2009, 6:35 pm | Comments Off 

FPC on Facebook

Posted August 19, 2009, 4:42 pm | Comments Off 

Would you like a First Presbyterian T-shirt?  They are available in adult and youth sizes.  Cost - $12.00 for short-sleeved and $17.00 for long-sleeved.  Order and pickup in Calvin Hall.  They make a nice witnessing tool for all at activities.  Get one today!

Posted July 6, 2009, 3:01 pm | Comments Off