Just as we are saved to serve others, we are also saved to be perfected in God’s likeness (Matthew 5:48). As children of God, we are called to immerse ourselves in his living word—the Bible—which is the textbook of our faith in Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul tells us in Romans 12:2 to
be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
We invite you to grow in weekly Christian education programs, Bible studies and a host of special events such as retreats, seminars and lectures from some of the world’s greatest theologians and scholars.
Mondays
The Fire (University Ministries)
9:00 p.m.
University of the Incarnate Word Student Center
Contact: Bianca Quezada (226-0216, ext. 266)
The Fire is a community of college-aged (18–23) young adults, committed to investigating the claims of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Expect nothing less than a community of people who are seeking God through the Bible, and passionate worship focused on Jesus Christ. Put simply, we are on fire for the living Savior that is Jesus Christ. Participants can also get involved in other opportunities for ministry including retreats, mission trips, Core Groups (Bible study and accountability groups), and mentoring relationships. For more information see www.UiwFire.blogspot.com.
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Tuesdays
Women’s Bible study
Discerning the Voice of God: How to Recognize When God Speaks
9:30–11:30 a.m.
Covenant Hall
Contact: Judy Kruger (857-0122)
Discerning the Voice of God: How to Recognize When God Speaks by writer/speaker Priscilla Shirer continues. The Father so passionately loves you that he sent Jesus to die in your place. He desires a personal relationship in which he speaks directly to you. Have you spent most of your Christian life leaning on those beliefs without really experiencing them? This study provides practical help in knowing what you hear is really from God. You’ll become more familiar with God’s Holy Spirit, his character, language and tone of voice. You’ll do personal study in preparation for weekly video presentations and small group discussions. All ages welcome. Suggested donation for study guide: $12. Meet in Covenant Hall, 9:30–11:30 a.m. Childcare is available by reservation. Call Judy Kruger at 857-0122 to register.
NEW MOM’S GROUP
9:30–11:30 a.m. Starting April 1
Room 108
Contacts: Carrie Jowers (828-5109), Cynthia Martin (492-3366) and Amy Renard (999-5323)
Moms, we aren’t fooling! Starting Tuesday, April 1, join other moms of young children for a weekly time of fun and fellowship, 9:30–11:30 a.m. in Room 108. All moms are welcome and babies are welcome during the meeting, or if you prefer, free childcare will be provided. Rooms will be available for nursing moms. Feel free to bring a snack for your child. Come as your schedule permits.
April 1
Tired of fighting with your child to eat? Come learn about food, nutrition, and kid-friendly meal planning. Guest Speaker Stephanie Smith from whole
Foods Market.
April 8
Meet at 10 a.m. at Big Top Kidz, 19239 Stone Oak Pkwy.
April 15
First Aid with Shelley Craig, FPC Assistant Director Children’s Ministry. Learn the basics on caring for your child in a medical emergency situation
April 22
Play, picnic and feed the ducks at Brackenridge Park
April 29
No Meeting
May 6
Toddler and preschooler behavior and appropriate discipline. Guest Speaker Rich Lange
May 13 Play and Picnic at Walker Ranch Park on West Ave. between Bitters and Blanco
May 20 Learn how to budget effectively and save money. Guest speaker Darryl Lyons
May 27 Memorial Day break
Summer programs to be announced shortly.
To reserve for childcare, call April Kuper at 226-0216, ext. 232 the Sunday prior to the Tuesday meeting. For more details, contact Carrie Jowers at 828-5109, Cynthia Martin at 492-3366, or Amy Renard at 999-5323.
Precept Bible Study: Isaiah
6:00–8:00 p.m., January 8–April 22
Room 224
Contact: Larry Forkner (830-885-4294 or
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)
The book of Isaiah reveals God as both righteous and compassionate. Through prose and poetry the man who many believe to be the greatest prophet of the Old Testament talks of God’s necessity to punish his rebellious people while at the same time proclaiming the good news of the coming Messiah more than any other prophet in the Old Testament. Isaiah can be an example to all of us. He was a man of great spirituality and strong faith who was bold, fearless and absolutely sincere in sharing God’s Word. If you want to better understand how the Old Testament and the New Testament tie together and that God never changes, this study is for you. This is the first of a two-part study of Isaiah which includes daily assignments and a weekly meeting that starts with a lecture followed by an optional video lecture. People of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to attend. Suggested donation for the study guide is $25. Childcare is available by reservation. Contact Larry Forkner at
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or (830) 885-4294 to order a workbook prior to the class start date.
The Well (University Ministries)
9:30 p.m.,
Trinity University in the Fiesta Room
Contact: Bianca Quezada (226-0216, ext. 266)
The Well is a growing community of college-aged (18–23) young adults, committed to investigating the claims of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Expect nothing less than a community of people who are seeking God through the Bible, and passionate worship focused on Jesus Christ. Put simply, we are thirsting for the living water that is Jesus Christ. Participants can also get involved in other opportunities for ministry including retreats, mission trips, Core Groups (Bible study and accountability groups), and mentoring relationships. For more information visit www.TrinityWell.blogspot.com.
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Wednesdays
Wednesday Evening Dinners
5:30–6:30 p.m.
Westminster Hall
- Adults (full meal deal) $7.00
- Adults (soup, salad and dessert) 6.00
- Children (6–11) 3.00
- (Children under 6 free)
- Family maximum $18 (one household only)
Adults
REMIND ME OF YOUR NAME!
RELATIONSHIPS: THE KEY TO LASTING AND EFFECTIVE MINISTRY
5:30–6:30 p.m.
Covenant Hall
New associate pastors John and Ruthie Seiders will teach a new four-week class which explores the reasons why a vital ministry based on building relationships between the generations is so important to the health of the church. We will look at key models of relationships from the Scriptures and basic theological foundations that undergird any effective ministry. We will then bring those models into our understanding of the context and culture of this postmodern generation. We will consider how any activity, committee assignment, task force, or work group can use the principles of small group relationships to transform their task into fruitful ministry. Lastly we will consider the difference between recruitment and the biblical concept of call. This class is open to all who are interested in finding a way to develop new relationships and discover how they can be more involved in the lifeline of the church. This includes ushers and greeters, Sunday school, adult education, and preschool teachers, youth workers and volunteers, elders and deacons. We encourage teams of leaders and whole committees to take advantage of having time to look at their own responsibilities through the grid of building Christian relationships.
Beth Moore Bible Study
Breaking Free: Making Liberty in Christ a Reality in Life
6:30–8:30 p.m.
Room 302
This women’s study leads you through a study of the Scriptures to discover the transforming power of Christian freedom. Based on Isaiah 61:1–4, this study draws parallels between the captive Israelites and today’s believers. Beth points out the benefits of our relationship with God and shows you how to remove obstacles that hinder that relationship. There is personal study in preparation for the weekly video presentations and small group discussions. All ages welcome. There is a suggested donation for the workbook. Childcare is available by reservation. Call Sheila Figueroa at 822-4082 to register for this study or if you have any questions.
Youth
High School
6:30–7:30 p.m.
New Covenant Building, first floor
Contact: Kellen Smith, Youth Ministry Director (226-0216, ext. 224)
High school students enjoy our Wednesday evening program which offers a unique chance for fellowship and Christ-centered discussion. The semester will include fun community-building activities, a look at topics relevant to high school students, and a reflective time for prayer. Whether you are new to the youth program or a returning student, come and enjoy a time designed for you.
Middle School Youth Group
6:30–7:30 p.m.
New Covenant Building, second floor
Contact: Kellen Smith, Youth Ministry Director (226-0216, ext. 224)
Wednesday nights are a great time for middle school students to get together and have fun. We play games, make up skits, hang out, go get ice cream, or even do a service project; all designed to help us know each other and Christ better. There is something for everyone—so come be a part!
Children
5:30–7:45 p.m. Childcare for infants through 5 years/Kinder
7:30–8:45 p.m. Extended care for children whose parents are in choir
6:00–6:45 p.m. Children’s Choirs (see Music Ministry following)
6:30–7:30 p.m. The Master’s Hands
Grades 1–5 (Room 124, Pit Area)
Children have the opportunity to work on basic crafts of woodworking, stained glass,
tie-dying, pottery, weaving, and other great projects while they learn biblical stories
and relate them to daily life.
Music
The Angels (3-year olds by September 1, 2007)
6:00-6:30 p.m.
Room 125
Director: Laura Reilly
The Cherubs (Kindergarten, Grades 1, 2)
6:00–6:45 p.m.
Room 127
Director: Lana McMains, Children’s Choirs Coordinator (
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)
The Music Makers (Grades 1, 2)
6:00–6:45 p.m.
Room 128
Director: to be announced
The Singing Machine (Grades 3, 4, and 5)
6:00–6:45 p.m.
Room 126
Director: to be announced
First Presbyterian Church’s children’s choirs are offered to give children opportunities to learn music and biblical truths, perform music appropriate to their age, enjoy music, and learn to worship through music. The directors and assistants are well-trained, experienced Christian musicians who love to work with children. The choirs rehearse on Wednesday evening and sing for the The Joy of Christmas program, Palm Sunday, special concerts, and other worship services during the year.
Sanctuary Handbells
5:45 p.m.
Room 309
Director/Contact: Dr. Jae Ha (226-0216, ext. 229)
Bell ringing is fun, therapeutic, and develops musicianship and teamwork while at the same time adding an exhilarating dimension to worship services. Thirteen bell ringers are needed at all times to be able to utilize all five octaves of handbells owned by FPC. There will be introductory sessions during the month of September at the same time for those interested in learning to ring, in need of review, or just anxiously anticipating the beautiful music.
Sanctuary Choir
6:59–8:31 p.m.
Choir Room 318
Contact: Dr. Leroy Yarbrough (226-0216, ext. 217)
If you like to sing and make melody in your heart to the Lord, come each week to be a part of the Sanctuary Choir. Additional members are always being sought for active duty. Auditions are not necessary.
Men's Choir
Room 318
Director: Dr. Leroy Yarbrough
This choir is for men only and rehearses after Sunday worship services no more often than one Sunday each month and sings in the worship services no more than once each quarter. No auditions are necessary.
Ladies Choir
Room 318
Director: Dr. Leroy Yarbrough
This choir is for women only and rehearses after Sunday worship services no more often than one Sunday each month and sings in the worship services no more than once each quarter. No auditions are necessary.
Contemporary Service Music Team
6:30–7:30 p.m.
Room 300
Contact: Judson Taylor (226-0216, ext. 228)
If you enjoy singing or playing contemporary Christian praise and worship music, consider joining the team as part of your offering to the Lord.
College-aged
The Bridge
9:30 p.m.
St. Mary’s University Campus
We are a sister ministry to The Well and The Fire located on the campus of St. Mary’s University. Come join us on Wed nights at 9:30 p.m. as we strive to invite Jesus Christ into every area of our lives. If you have questions e-mail Greg Richards at
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Thursdays
Early Morning Men's Breakfast and Study Group
7:00–8:00 a.m.
St. Andrew’s Room
Contact: Bill Lyons (229-1646)
A terrific breakfast greets this group of “early-bird” men for their weekly interactive Bible study. Discover a deeper faith through Bible study as it relates to life—with great fellowship included.
Men's Prayer Breakfast
7:15–8:30 a.m.
Geneva Room
Contact: The Rev. Richard Kannwischer (226-0216, ext. 260)
Men of all ages are invited for Bible study, prayerful support and Christian growth, led by the Rev Richard Kannwischer and William Karlson. After breakfast, a passage of Scripture is read and discussed. Each man is invited to share his insights on the truth and relevance of the morning’s passage.
Children's Day Out
9:15 a.m.–2:15 p.m.
Contact: Kitty Lange, Children’s Day Out Director (226-0216, ext. 233 or 822-6401)
This program is part of First Presbyterian’s ministry to young children and their families. Four classes are available: toddlers, young 2s, older 2s, and 3s. The teacher/child ratio is 1:4 for all the younger children, and 1:5 for the 3s. Children hear a Bible story, sing songs, pray, do a creative art project, play outdoors, and enjoy learning centers with dramatic play, blocks, manipulative toys and large motor activities. Loving, nurturing teachers strive to create a safe and positive environment for the preschoolers to learn about the Lord Jesus.
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Fridays
Friday Singers
9:30–10:45 a.m.
Room 318
Director: Dr. Leroy Yarbrough (226-0216, ext. 217)
This choir rehearses on Friday at various times of the year from September–May. After the initial rehearsal season, rehearsals are scheduled only on the days of performances. The sole purpose of the group is to sing at retirement communities in the greater San Antonio area throughout the year and bring a little extra sunshine into the lives of senior adults. This is not an easy task at times, but the rewards of smiles and hugs make it worthwhile.
KEYS (Keeping Everyone Young in Spirit)
Senior Adult Ministry
9:45–10:45 a.m. – fitness class
11:00 a.m. – program
Noon – lunch
Director: Pat McCleary (226-0216, ext. 226)
KEYS is a group of adults who meet at the church each Friday morning, September–June for Christian fellowship, sharing, fun, and food. Individuals may participate in all or part of the day’s activities.
The Fitness class is led by professional trainer Gayle Buchanan. The purpose is to improve your strength, flexibility, toning, and cardio-vascular conditioning with different levels of intensity. Programs follow and end promptly at noon. Outstanding programs include: local history, book reviews, legal issues, inspirational talks, musicals, community affairs, mission trips, financial planning, health issues, humor, and current events. Lunch ($7) is followed by a friendly game of bridge.
Special events include movie matinees, plays, trips to museums, walking tours, day trips, concerts, defensive driving classes, and luncheons out at local restaurants for birthday celebrations. Other aspects of this ministry are a continuing ministry to the homebound, volunteer opportunities, sharing awareness of issues and concerns on aging, care and concern, and service projects.
Senior adults are encouraged to participate in all church activities as they have much to contribute.
Other Opportunities and Resources
Presbyterian Women
Circles meet at various times and locations throughout the month.
Contact: Pat Krueger, President 2007–2008 (822-1643,
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)
Presbyterian Women is comprised of eighteen circles whose activities include fellowship, study, and service to others. There are twelve Bible Study circles, three sewing circles, a Literary Circle that reads and hears reviews of nine books during the year, a Circle of Service which provides assistance to church and community at various times throughout the year, and the Care and Concern Circle, which provides food for members of the church who are ill or bereaved. Whatever your age, interests or schedule needs, there is a group you would enjoy, and that would love to include you.
Other Presbyterian Women’s activities include luncheons and evening events providing fellowship along with entertaining and thought-provoking programs, providing Christmas baskets for needy families, and hosting Christmas parties for Morningside Manor and Chandler Nursing Home residents. Presbyterian Women also host the Christmas Eve dinner for the pastors and choir members, the children’s Easter Egg Hunt, and the PW Birthday Offering Coffee in May.
Contact Pat Krueger (822-1643), Betsy Zachry (828-1114), or Yvonne Torres (226-0215) with any questions, or to help you find a circle that’s right for you.
Instrumental Ensemble
Room 318
Coordinator: Dr. Leroy Yarbrough (226-0216, ext. 217)
Various combinations of instruments will rehearse on different weeks and join forces several times each year to play preludes and offertories for the traditional worship services. Music literature will be chosen according to musical ability. Watch for days and times in First Press and the Sunday worship bulletin.
Discover First!
New Members’ Class
Contact: Stacie Rodriguez (226-0216, ext. 259 or
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)
Discover more about the faith, mission and people of First Presbyterian Church. Discover First! is designed to be a relaxed and comfortable way to learn more about the joys of following Christ and of being a member of FPC. You will also get to know other people who are new to the congregation, meet the staff, and learn about the activities of the church. Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to decide if you are interested in becoming a member of the church. Attendance at Discover First! does not obligate you to join but it does prepare you to become a member if you should choose to do so.
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