February 3, 2023

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

Donations can be made in person, by mail or through online giving.

In Traditional Worship Today:

Diaconal Minister of Music - Linda Peppernick

Reader - Terri Stevens

Acolyte - Cindy Robison

The alter flowers are placed to the glory of God.

The centerpiece is placed in honor of husband Bill by Judy Paes.

A centerpiece is in honor and memory of the four chaplains who gave their life jackets to other servicemen as their ship was sinking on February 3, 1943. They were ALEXANDER D. GOODE, Jewish Rabbi; REV. GEORGE L. FOX, Methodist Minister; REV. CLARK V. POLING, Dutch Reformed Minister; and FATHER JOHN P. WASHINGTON, Roman Catholic Priest.

~Given by the Poling Family.

When the ship was torpedoed by a German U-Boat, the Chaplains passed out life jackets and helped others into the lifeboats, but when the life jackets were gone, they removed their own jackets and gave them to others. As the Dorchester was sinking, the four Chaplains were seen with locked arms and singing hymns. 

To place flowers contact Bette Renshaw (717-263-3660)

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Family Worship FAQs

Pray with us and/or for us (see below) Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

Kids Konnect -Wednesdays this Winter! 6pm-8pm.

Hospitality Night - February 15 6pm-8pm Dinner provided and served by First Lights to the women of the Hospitality Team in appreciation for all they do at FUMC.

The Cereal Bowl - February 12 at 10am during Sunday School - Taste test down from many to the best tasting cereal as determined by First Lights and their friends on Big Game Sunday!

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Prayer Partner February Focus: Pray that God would allow us to create a safe place in our groups where everyone feels respected and no one shows favoritism. Ask God to impress on kids’ hearts the importance of treating others with respect, no matter who they are, what they like, or how they act.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth meets regularly at the church on Wednesdays from 6-8pm.

Illuminate Annual HS Retreat at Mt. Asbury is scheduled for February 17-19! We encourage all HS students to sign up and join us for this unique, restful, faith-building experience. If interested, please contact Collin, or sign up in our youth room before February 3.

First Church’s Basketball team play February 7 at 8:15 PM in Gym II at the Rec Center.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

If you can help tear down after the meal on Thursday at 6:00 PM or Friday Morning, contact Pastor Steve at 717-873-6626.

 

Visit Hungry Hearts

Women Connect
Team Haiti/Missions

Sponsors are needed for a special program being initiated by the US Government to help Haitians and other impoverish country citizenry immigrate legally.  It does not require a financial commitment but a willingness to help people with completing required documentation.  For information contact Etzer Pierre etzerpierre3@yahoo.fr

Mission Central is in need of  women's briefs,  laundry detergent, dental floss, toothpaste, deodorant, small personal size shampoo and conditioner, children's scissors, and rulers.

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session coming soon.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

Bunny Parson's  90th birthday is 2/21 and her family is doing a card shower for her.  Cards can be sent any time in February.  Please feel free to send a picture of your family with the card.  It helps her recognition.

Her address is:

1900 Ravine Ridge

Building C  Apt. 12009

Williamsport, PA  17701

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

***NEW!

The Veterans Fellowship, including spouse or guest , will meet for breakfast  Saturday February 11 at 8a.m. at 30West Restaurant . Please let Doug Davis know of your intentions with a count by phone 717- 372-7373 oremail  dougdavis0034@yahoo.com.

Offering Envelopes Due to supply chain and the inability to add employees at the rate necessary has created a slow draw on production and shipping the envelope company is forced to suspend the production of the remaining supply of your February envelopes. The offering envelopes will resume and be delivered by the first Sunday in March.  Please record your envelope number and use a regular envelope with the number and your name written on it during February so we can keep an accurate recording of giving.  Thank you!  The company apologizes for the inconvenience.

ATTENTION SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES/ORGANIZATIONS!

IT IS NOW TIME TO AUDIT YOUR 2022 RECORDS!

Please turn in your checking account/bank statements to Stacey in the Church Office as soon as possible.  If you bring them when Stacey is not in the office, they can be placed in the mailbox outside Stacey’s office.

Weekday Welcome Desk Help Needed -If you can provide coverage at the welcome desk on Mondays OR be a backup when we have a need Tuesday –Thursday, from 9 AM to noon, contact Stacey at 717-263-8491 or office4fumc@gmail.com

Important Note regarding upcoming events: If you are planning a church event, please contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Prayers for Healing

Don Nolder (recovering in rehab)
Gideon Hill (isolating at home)
Declan Parris
John Parson
Bobbi Snyder
Jenny Barnes
Carol Crow
Luke Vulgamott
Jan Horst
Gary Gettle
Linda Leidig
Glennis Parris
Helen Rice
Sam Rice
Dottie Vidal
Dave Decker
Jane Pensinger
Janet Wood
Dick Jenkins

Prayers for Our World

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - cold, snow, flooding, power outages.

Clean air and water for every child of God.

Wisdom for all government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

Grief Share

Mission Experience June 2023

Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Lucille Lower

Vicki Leisher

Deb Ewing

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Dottie Vidil

Ed Wentz's Daughter and Son-in-law

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

WINTER WEATHER POLICY

Weekday Policy:

Whenever Chambersburg Area Schools close

for inclement weather, all activities at FUMC will also be cancelled.

If they have a 2 hr delay the church office will have a 2 hr delay.

If they get out early the church office

will close early and all activities for the evening will be cancelled.

Sunday Policy:

Please use one of the following methods to check on cancellations:

A.) The church website

B.) The church’s Facebook page

(Email church notices to pastor4fumc@gmail.com by Wednesday)

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

Church Conference Vote January 29, 2023

Church Conference Vote on Disaffiliation

January 29, 2023

Thank you to everyone who attended the voting yesterday afternoon.  185 people voted. A super majority vote of 66.6 % was required by the rules of paragraph 2553 of the Book of Discipline to disaffiliate from the UMC.  FUMC’s vote did not achieve a super majority having only reached 60%.
We extend appreciation to Reverend Thomas Salsgiver, our conference representative and Reverend Cathy Boileau, our conference superintendent for overseeing yesterday’s vote.
First United Methodist Church will continue to serve the Lord by serving our community and the world as we have for the last 200 years.  Each member is a vital part of that ministry and your continuing prayers, presence, gifts, service and witness are essential to our vitality as we lift up Jesus Christ, that all people might be drawn to Him!
Pastor Steve

January 27, 2023

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

Donations can be made in person, by mail or through online giving.

In Traditional Worship Today:

Diaconal Minister of Music - Linda Peppernick

Reader - Doug Harbaugh

The alter flowers are placed to the glory of God.

The centerpiece is placed in loving memory of Betty Naugle.

To place flowers contact Bette Renshaw (717-263-3660)

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Family Worship FAQs

Pray with us and/or for us (see below) Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

Kids Konnect -Wednesdays this Winter! 6pm-8pm.

Hospitality Night - February 15 6pm-8pm Dinner provided and served by First Lights to the women of the Hospitality Team in appreciation for all they do at FUMC.

The Cereal Bowl - February 12 at 10am during Sunday School - Taste test down from many to the best tasting cereal as determined by First Lights and their friends on Big Game Sunday!

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Prayer Partner January Focus: Thank God for being a God who desires to know us and to be known. Ask God to build a foundation of curiosity that will lead your prayer partner to seek answers to their questions and never to stop searching for what’s true.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth meets regularly at the church on Wednesdays from 6-8pm.

Illuminate Annual HS Retreat at Mt. Asbury is scheduled for February 17-19! We encourage all HS students to sign up and join us for this unique, restful, faith-building experience. If interested, please contact Collin, or sign up in our youth room before February 3.

First Church’s Basketball team play January 31st at 7:15 PM in Gym II at the Rec Center.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

If you can help tear down after the meal on Thursday at 6:00 PM or Friday Morning, contact Pastor Steve at 717-873-6626.

 

Visit Hungry Hearts

Women Connect
Team Haiti/Missions

Sponsors are needed for a special program being initiated by the US Government to help Haitians and other impoverish country citizenry immigrate legally.  It does not require a financial commitment but a willingness to help people with completing required documentation.  For information contact Etzer Pierre etzerpierre3@yahoo.fr

Mission Central is in need of  women's briefs,  laundry detergent, dental floss, toothpaste, deodorant, small personal size shampoo and conditioner, children's scissors, and rulers.

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session coming soon.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

Bunny Parson's  90th birthday is 2/21 and her family is doing a card shower for her.  Cards can be sent any time in February.  Please feel free to send a picture of your family with the card.  It helps her recognition.

Her address is:

1900 Ravine Ridge

Building C  Apt. 12009

Williamsport, PA  17701

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Offering Envelopes Due to supply chain and the inability to add employees at the rate necessary has created a slow draw on production and shipping the envelope company is forced to suspend the production of the remaining supply of your February envelopes. The offering envelopes will resume and be delivered by the first Sunday in March.  Please record your envelope number and use a regular envelope with the number and your name written on it during February so we can keep an accurate recording of giving.  Thank you!  The company apologizes for the inconvenience.

ATTENTION SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES/ORGANIZATIONS!

IT IS NOW TIME TO AUDIT YOUR 2022 RECORDS!

Please turn in your checking account/bank statements to Stacey in the Church Office as soon as possible.  If you bring them when Stacey is not in the office, they can be placed in the mailbox outside Stacey’s office.

Weekday Welcome Desk Help Needed -If you can provide coverage at the welcome desk on Mondays OR be a backup when we have a need Tuesday –Thursday, from 9 AM to noon, contact Stacey at 717-263-8491 or office4fumc@gmail.com

Important Note regarding upcoming events: If you are planning a church event, please contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

A Special Church Conference will be held Today, Sunday, January 29th at 2:00 PM in the FLC for voting regarding First Church remaining in, or disaffiliating from, the United Methodist Denomination. The Susquehanna Annua l Conference stipulates: only professing members present may speak and vote. Voting will be by paper ballot. The voting results will be announced at the end of the church conference. A 2/3 vote is required to disaffiliate. Pastor Steve is available to discuss and answer any questions and address concerns you have about this process. Feel free to call his cell, 717-873-6626 or email him at pastor4fumc@gmail.com. He is also happy to meet with you in person.

Prayers for Healing

Don Nolder (recovering in rehab)
Gideon Hill (isolating at home)
Declan Parris
John Parson
Bobbi Snyder
Jenny Barnes
Carol Crow
Luke Vulgamott
Jan Horst
Gary Gettle
Linda Leidig
Glennis Parris
Helen Rice
Sam Rice
Dottie Vidal
Dave Decker
Jane Pensinger
Janet Wood
Dick Jenkins

Prayers for Our World

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - cold, snow, flooding, power outages.

Clean air and water for every child of God.

Wisdom for all government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

Grief Share

Disaffiliation Vote Sunday January 29

Mission Experience June 2023

Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Lucille Lower

Vicki Leisher

Deb Ewing

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Dottie Vidil

Ed Wentz's Daughter and Son-in-law

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

The family of Gwendoline Diehl who has entered the Church Triumphant.

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

WINTER WEATHER POLICY

Weekday Policy:

Whenever Chambersburg Area Schools close

for inclement weather, all activities at FUMC will also be cancelled.

If they have a 2 hr delay the church office will have a 2 hr delay.

If they get out early the church office

will close early and all activities for the evening will be cancelled.

Sunday Policy:

Please use one of the following methods to check on cancellations:

A.) The church website

B.) The church’s Facebook page

(Email church notices to pastor4fumc@gmail.com by Wednesday)

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

January 20, 2022

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

Donations can be made in person, by mail or through online giving.

Traditional Order of Service

Contemporary Order of Service

In Traditional Worship Today:

Diaconal Minister of Music - Linda Peppernick

Acolyte  - Gabriel Cieza

Reader - Doug Harbaugh

The centerpiece flowers are placed to the glory of God.

To place flowers contact Bette Renshaw (717-263-3660)

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Family Worship FAQs

Pray with us and/or for us (see below) Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

Kids Konnect -Wednesdays this Winter! 6pm-8pm.

Hospitality Night - February 15 6pm-8pm Dinner provided and served by First Lights to the women of the Hospitality Team in appreciation for all they do at FUMC.

The Cereal Bowl - February 12 at 10am during Sunday School - Taste test down from many to the best tasting cereal as determined by First Lights and their friends on Big Game Sunday!

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Prayer Partner January Focus: Thank God for being a God who desires to know us and to be known. Ask God to build a foundation of curiosity that will lead your prayer partner to seek answers to their questions and never to stop searching for what’s true.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth meets regularly at the church on Wednesdays from 6-8pm.

Illuminate Annual HS Retreat at Mt. Asbury is scheduled for February 17-19! We encourage all HS students to sign up and join us for this unique, restful, faith-building experience. If interested, please contact Collin, or sign up in our youth room before February 3.

First Church’s Basketball team play Thursday, January 26th at 8:00 PM in Gym II at the Rec Center against Grand Point.

 

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

Hungry Hearts needs a team to move shelving, tables, and chairs.

Hungry Hearts needs plastic bags for the food pantry.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Women Connect
UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect

Jeremiah 29:11-13 (NLT) says:

11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.

This is the scripture we will focus on in January as we ASK God to help us be creative in our planning.  “Creativity is not restricted to the arts or crafting.  Creativity happens as the Creator of all things, living in and through me, makes all things new.” – from Lectio 365 devotion.

WE WANT YOUR CREATIVE IDEAS FOR 2023!

Saturday, January 21, 2023, 9 – 10:30 AM

Connect Café & Lobby  -  Music & Refreshments served.

Team Haiti/Missions

Sponsors are needed for a special program being initiated by the US Government to help Haitians and other impoverish country citizenry immigrate legally.  It does not require a financial commitment but a willingness to help people with completing required documentation.  For information contact Etzer Pierre etzerpierre3@yahoo.fr

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session coming soon.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

Bunny Parson's  90th birthday is 2/21 and her family is doing a card shower for her.  Cards can be sent any time in February.  Please feel free to send a picture of your family with the card.  It helps her recognition.

Her address is:

1900 Ravine Ridge

Building C  Apt. 12009

Williamsport, PA  17701

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

***New***

Offering Envelopes Due to supply chain and the inability to add employees at the rate necessary has created a slow draw on production and shipping the envelope company is forced to suspend the production of the remaining supply of your February envelopes. The offering envelopes will resume and be delivered by the first Sunday in March.  Please record your envelope number and use a regular envelope with the number and your name written on it during February so we can keep an accurate recording of giving.  Thank you!  The company apologizes for the inconvenience.

ATTENTION SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES/ORGANIZATIONS!

IT IS NOW TIME TO AUDIT YOUR 2022 RECORDS!

Please turn in your checking account/bank statements to Stacey in the Church Office as soon as possible.  If you bring them when Stacey is not in the office, they can be placed in the mailbox outside Stacey’s office.

Weekday Welcome Desk Help Needed.  We have a need Tuesday –Thursday, from 9 o’clock to noon, please contact Stacey at 717-263-8491 or office4fumc@gmail.com.

Important Note regarding upcoming events: If you are planning a church event, please contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Q & A  for discernment on disaffiliation will be held on Sunday, January 15th at 2:00 PM in the Family Life Center. A Frequently Asked Questions document will be made available prior to the Q&A session.

Praying Together

A series of meetings for discerning prayer will begin on Wednesday, January 4th.  The schedule will be:

  • Sundays at 10:15 AM for those not in a class
  • Wednesdays at 6:00 PM
  • Thursdays at 12 noon.

It is hoped this schedule gives everyone an opportunity to pray with other people for discernment.  The meetings are solely for praying for God's leading First Church.  Other meetings are being planned for further discussions and questions.

A Special Church Conference will be held on Sunday, January 29th at 2:00 PM in the FLC for voting regarding First Church remaining in, or disaffiliating from, the United Methodist Denomination. The Susquehanna Annua l Conference stipulates: only professing members present may speak and vote. Voting will be by paper ballot. The voting results will be announced at the end of the church conference. A 2/3 vote is required to disaffiliate. Pastor Steve is available to discuss and answer any questions and address concerns you have about this process. Feel free to call his cell, 717-873-6626 or email him at pastor4fumc@gmail.com. He is also happy to meet with you in person.

Prayers for Healing

Don Nolder (recovering in rehab)

Gideon Hill (isolating at home)

Declan Parris

John Parson

Bobbi Snyder

Jenny Barnes

Carol Crow

Luke Vulgamott

Jan Horst

Gary Gettle

Linda Leidig

Glennis Parris

Helen Rice

Sam Rice

Dottie Vidal

Dave Decker

Jane Pensinger

Janet Wood

Prayers for Our World

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - cold, snow, flooding, power outages.

Clean air and water for every child of God.

Wisdom for all government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

Grief Share

Discernment talks/conversations
Discernment Prayer Meetings
Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Lucille Lower

Vicki Leisher

Deb Ewing

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Dottie Vidil

Ed Wentz's Daughter and Son-in-law

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

For Judy Paes and her daughter's family at the passing of her son-in-law.

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

WINTER WEATHER POLICY

Weekday Policy:

Whenever Chambersburg Area Schools close

for inclement weather, all activities at FUMC will also be cancelled.

If they have a 2 hr delay the church office will have a 2 hr delay.

If they get out early the church office

will close early and all activities for the evening will be cancelled.

Sunday Policy:

Please use one of the following methods to check on cancellations:

A.) The church website

B.) The church’s Facebook page

(Email church notices to pastor4fumc@gmail.com by Wednesday)

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

January 13, 2023

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

Save the Date! Dads Group Starting!

Dads Group is designed to help our church create intentional discipleship relationships where dads can be real and encourage one another as they raise families. Where they can journey together and challenge one another in their walks with Jesus.
Dads Group will be meeting on the 2nd Saturday of the month from 9:00-10:30 a.m., beginning on January 14th and running through June. Discussions will be based around John El-dredge’s The Way of the Wild Heart. We hope you will be able to join us!

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

Donations can be made in person, by mail or through online giving.

In Traditional Worship Today:

Diaconal Minister of Music - Linda Peppernick

Acolyte  - Rachel  Gotwald

Reader - Max Bistline

The centerpiece flowers are placed to the glory of God and in loving memory of  Paul and Ruby Byers who both passed away in the month of January by Dianne and Chuck Salter and Paula and Sam Hepfer.

The centerpiece flowers placed in honor of Stephanie's birthday by her mother, Judy Paes.

To place flowers contact Bette Renshaw (717-263-3660)

 

 

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Family Worship FAQs

Pray with us and/or for us (see below) Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

Kids Konnect -Wednesdays this Winter! 6pm-8pm.

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Prayer Partner January Focus: Thank God for being a God who desires to know us and to be known. Ask God to build a foundation of curiosity that will lead your prayer partner to seek answers to their questions and never to stop searching for what’s true.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth meets regularly at the church on Wednesdays from 6-8pm.

First Church Boys Basketball plays Grandpoint

When: Tuesday January 17th

Time: 8:15 PM

Where: Gym II at the Rec Center

Illuminate Annual HS Retreat at Mt. Asbury is scheduled for February 17-19! We encourage all HS students to sign up and join us for this unique, restful, faith-building experience. If interested, please contact Collin, or sign up in our youth room before February 3.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

Hungry Hearts needs a team to move shelving, tables, and chairs.

Hungry Hearts needs plastic bags for the food pantry.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Women Connect
UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect

Jeremiah 29:11-13 (NLT) says:

11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.

This is the scripture we will focus on in January as we ASK God to help us be creative in our planning.  “Creativity is not restricted to the arts or crafting.  Creativity happens as the Creator of all things, living in and through me, makes all things new.” – from Lectio 365 devotion.

WE WANT YOUR CREATIVE IDEAS FOR 2023!

Saturday, January 21, 2023, 9 – 10:30 AM

Connect Café & Lobby  -  Music & Refreshments served.

Team Haiti/Missions

Thank you to everyone who helped us raise $400.00 for UMCOR through the Knit and Crochet Marketplace sale.

We were also able to donate items to the nursing home,  Joyful for Jesus, and the church clothing ministry.  God bless you!

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session coming soon.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Q & A for discernment on disaffiliation will be held on TODAY January 15th at 2:00 PM in the Family Life Center.

A 2nd FAQ sheet is available for pick up today which is focused on reason to continue with the UMC.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

**NEW

ATTENTION SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES/ORGANIZATIONS!

IT IS NOW TIME TO AUDIT YOUR 2022 RECORDS! 

Please turn in your checking account/bank statements to Stacey in the Church Office as soon as possible.  If you bring them when Stacey is not in the office, they can be placed in the mailbox outside Stacey’s office.  

 

Weekday Welcome Desk Help Needed.  We have a need Tuesday –Thursday, from 9 o’clock to noon, please contact Stacey at 717-263-8491 or office4fumc@gmail.com.

Important Note regarding upcoming events: If you are planning a church event, please contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Q & A  for discernment on disaffiliation will be held on Sunday, January 15th at 2:00 PM in the Family Life Center. A Frequently Asked Questions document will be made available prior to the Q&A session.

Praying Together

A series of meetings for discerning prayer will begin on Wednesday, January 4th.  The schedule will be:

Sundays at 10:15 AM for those not in a class

Wednesdays at 6:00 PM

Thursdays at 12 noon.

It is hoped this schedule gives everyone an opportunity to pray with other people for discernment.  The meetings are solely for praying for God's leading First Church.  Other meetings are being planned for further discussions and questions.

A Special Church Conference will be held on Sunday, January 29th at 2:00 PM in the FLC for voting regarding First Church remaining in, or disaffiliating from, the United Methodist Denomination. The Susquehanna Annua l Conference stipulates: only professing members present may speak and vote. Voting will be bypaper ballot. The voting results will be announced at the end of the church conference. A 2/3 vote is required to disaffiliate. Pastor Steve is available to discuss and answer any questions and address concerns you have about this process. Feel free to call his cell, 717-873-6626 or email him at pastor4fumc@gmail.com. He is also happy to meet with you in person.

Prayers for Healing

Don Nolder (recovering in rehab)

Gideon Hill (isolating at home)

Declan Parris

John Parson has been moved to skilled care

Bobbi Snyder

Jenny Barnes

Carol Crow

Luke Vulgamott in York hospital after fall at home

Jan Horst

Gary Gettle

Linda Leidig

Glennis Parris

Helen Rice

Dottie Vidal

Dave Decker

Prayers for Our World

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - cold, snow, flooding, power outages.

Clean air and water for every child of God.

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

Wisdom for all government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

Grief Share

Discernment talks/conversations
Discernment Prayer Meetings
Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Lucille Lower

Vicki Leisher

Deb Ewing

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Dottie Vidil

Ed Wentz's Daughter and Son-in-law

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

For Judy Paes and her daughter's family at the passing of her son-in-law.

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

WINTER WEATHER POLICY

Weekday Policy:

Whenever Chambersburg Area Schools close

for inclement weather, all activities at FUMC will also be cancelled.

If they have a 2 hr delay the church office will have a 2 hr delay.

If they get out early the church office

will close early and all activities for the evening will be cancelled.

Sunday Policy:

Please use one of the following methods to check on cancellations:

A.) The church website

B.) The church’s Facebook page

(Email church notices to pastor4fumc@gmail.com by Wednesday)

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

January 7, 2022

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

Save the Date! Dads Group Starting!

Dads Group is designed to help our church create intentional discipleship relationships where dads can be real and encourage one another as they raise families. Where they can journey together and challenge one another in their walks with Jesus.
Dads Group will be meeting on the 2nd Saturday of the month from 9:00-10:30 a.m., beginning on January 14th and running through June. Discussions will be based around John El-dredge’s The Way of the Wild Heart. We hope you will be able to join us!

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

Donations can be made in person, by mail or through online giving.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Family Worship FAQs

Pray with us and/or for us (see below) Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Prayer Partner January Focus: Thank God for being a God who desires to know us and to be known. Ask God to build a foundation of curiosity that will lead your prayer partner to seek answers to their questions and never to stop searching for what’s true.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth meets regularly at the church on Wednesdays from 6-8pm.

Come and Cheer on First Church’s Basketball team!  They play this Thursday, January 12th at 8:00 PM in Gym II at the Eugene C Clarke Jr. Community Center with King Street.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

Hungry Hearts needs a team to move shelving, tables, and chairs.

Hungry Hearts needs plastic bags for the food pantry.

Visit Hungry Hearts

Women Connect
UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect

Jeremiah 29:11-13 (NLT) says:

11 For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. 12 In those days when you pray, I will listen. 13 If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.

This is the scripture we will focus on in January as we ASK God to help us be creative in our planning.  “Creativity is not restricted to the arts or crafting.  Creativity happens as the Creator of all things, living in and through me, makes all things new.” – from Lectio 365 devotion.

WE WANT YOUR CREATIVE IDEAS FOR 2023!

Saturday, January 21, 2023, 9 – 10:30 AM

Connect Café & Lobby  -  Music & Refreshments served.

Team Haiti/Missions

Thank you to everyone who helped us raise $400.00 for UMCOR through the Knit and Crochet Marketplace sale.

We were also able to donate items to the nursing home,  Joyful for Jesus, and the church clothing ministry.  God bless you!

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session coming soon.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

Being a Greeter with a smile and warm hello may make some’s day. Thank you everyone who served as a greeter for 2022. God bless you you—Suzanne Everly

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Weekday Welcome Desk Help Needed.  We have a need Tuesday –Thursday, from 9 o’clock to noon, please contact Stacey at 717-263-8491 or office4fumc@gmail.com.

Important Note regarding upcoming events: If you are planning a church event, please contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Q & A  for discernment on disaffiliation will be held on Sunday, January 15th at 2:00 PM in the Family Life Center. A Frequently Asked Questions document will be made available prior to the Q&A session.

Praying Together

A series of meetings for discerning prayer will begin on Wednesday, January 4th.  The schedule will be:

Sundays at 10:15 AM for those not in a class

Wednesdays at 6:00 PM

Thursdays at 12 noon.

It is hoped this schedule gives everyone an opportunity to pray with other people for discernment.  The meetings are solely for praying for God's leading First Church.  Other meetings are being planned for further discussions and questions.

A Special Church Conference will be held on Sunday, January 29th at 2:00 PM in the FLC for voting regarding First Church remaining in, or disaffiliating from, the United Methodist Denomination. The Susquehanna Annua l Conference stipulates: only professing members present may speak and vote. Voting will be bypaper ballot. The voting results will be announced at the end of the church conference. A 2/3 vote is required to disaffiliate. Pastor Steve is available to discuss and answer any questions and address concerns you have about this process. Feel free to call his cell, 717-873-6626 or email him at pastor4fumc@gmail.com. He is also happy to meet with you in person.

Prayers for Healing

Don Nolder (recovering in rehab)

Gideon Hill (isolating at home)

Declan Parris

John Parson has been moved to skilled care

Bobbi Snyder

Jenny Barnes

Carol Crow

Luke Vulgamott in York hospital after fall at home

Jan Horst

Gary Gettle

Linda Leidig

Glennis Parris

Helen Rice

Dottie Vidal

Prayers for Our World

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - cold, snow, flooding, power outages.

Clean air and water for every child of God.

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

Wisdom for all government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

Grief Share

Discernment talks/conversations
Discernment Prayer Meetings
Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Lucille Lower

Vicki Leisher

Deb Ewing

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Dottie Vidil

Ed Wentz's Daughter and Son-in-law

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

For Judy Paes and her daughter's family at the passing of her son-in-law.

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

December 30, 2022

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

Save the Date! Dads Group Starting!

Dads Group is designed to help our church create intentional discipleship relationships where dads can be real and encourage one another as they raise families. Where they can journey together and challenge one another in their walks with Jesus.
Dads Group will be meeting on the 2nd Saturday of the month from 9:00-10:30 a.m., beginning on January 14th and running through June. Discussions will be based around John El-dredge’s The Way of the Wild Heart. We hope you will be able to join us!

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

Donations can be made in person, by mail or through online giving.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Family Worship FAQs

Pray with us and/or for us (see below) Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Prayer Partner December Focus: Thank God for putting a plan into action to make a way for us to have a relationship with God now and forever! Thank God for being a God who can do anything, yet still chose to send a Savior in such a humble and unexpected way! Thank God for the unending love that is communicated through the gift of Jesus. Ask God to help kids remember that Jesus is the greatest gift, better than any physical gift they could ever receive. Thank God for the excitement of the season and that we DO get to celebrate with gifts and fun traditions.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth meets regularly at the church on Wednesdays from 6-8pm through December 14.

FUMC Boys Basketball Team, grades 9-12!  Practice starts Monday, October 3 from 7 to 8:30 and will be the same time every Monday. Games begin in early January.  Parents, please contact Bob Byers (717-816-6976).  No experience necessary.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

We need a team to tear down Hungry Hearts on Thursday and to set up for Sunday service. This is a big ask -Huge! It's also a big need of the church. 

Visit Hungry Hearts

Women Connect
UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect
See you at our next gathering!
Team Haiti/Missions

THE OLD KNIT, CROCHET MARKETPLACE will be open Sundays starting November 27th in between church services and after services until Christmas.  Come do some Christmas shopping with us.   Proceeds will support UMCOR. Thank You.

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session coming soon.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Weekday Welcome Desk Help Needed.  We have a need Tuesday –Thursday, from 9 o’clock to noon, please contact Stacey at 717-263-8491 or office4fumc@gmail.com.

Important Note regarding upcoming events: If you are planning a church event, please contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

A Special Church Conference will be held on Sunday, January 29th at 2:00 PM in the FLC for voting regarding First Church remaining in, or disaffiliating from, the United Methodist Denomination. The Susquehanna Annua l Conference stipulates: only professing members present may speak and vote. Voting will be bypaper ballot. The voting results will be announced at the end of the church conference. A 2/3 vote is required to disaffiliate. Pastor Steve is available to discuss and answer any questions and address concerns you have about this process. Feel free to call his cell, 717-873-6626 or email him at pastor4fumc@gmail.com. He is also happy to meet with you in person.

Praying Together

A series of meetings for discerning prayer will begin on Wednesday, January 4th.  The schedule will be:

Sundays at 10:15 AM for those not in a class

Wednesdays at 6:00 PM

Thursdays at 12 noon.

It is hoped this schedule gives everyone an opportunity to pray with other people for discernment.  The meetings are solely for praying for God's leading First Church.  Other meetings are being planned for further discussions and questions.

 

Prayers for Healing

Don Nolder (recovering in rehab)

Gideon Hill (isolating at home)

Declan Parris

Dave Decker

John Parson has been moved to skilled care

Bobbi Snyder

Jenny Barnes

Carol Crow

Luke Vulgamott in York hospital after fall at home

Betty Upperman's granddaughter

Jina Zook

Jan Horst

Gary Gettle

Tye(3yrs)

Sue

Lea

Prayers for Our World

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - cold, snow, flooding, power outages.

Clean air and water for every child of God.

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

Wisdom for all government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

Grief Share

Discernment talks/conversations
Discernment Prayer Meetings
Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Linda Leidig

Lucille Lower

Vicki Leisher

Deb Ewing

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Dottie Vidil

Ed Wentz's Daughter and Son-in-law

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

For Judy Paes and her daughter's family at the passing of her son-in-law.

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

December 23, 2022

In Today's Service:

Diaconal Minister of Music - Linda Peppernick

Acolyte - Rachel Gotwald
Organist
- Ben Schellhase
The altar flowers
are given by June Maring, her children and grandchildren in loving memory of husband, father and grandfather Frank Maring whose birthday was December 26.
To place flowers contact Bette Renshaw (717-263-3660).

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

Save the Date! Dads Group Starting!

Dads Group is designed to help our church create intentional discipleship relationships where dads can be real and encourage one another as they raise families. Where they can journey together and challenge one another in their walks with Jesus.
Dads Group will be meeting on the 2nd Saturday of the month from 9:00-10:30 a.m., beginning on January 14th and running through June. Discussions will be based around John El-dredge’s The Way of the Wild Heart. We hope you will be able to join us!

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

Donations can be made in person, by mail or through online giving.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Family Worship FAQs

Pray with us and/or for us (see below) Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Prayer Partner December Focus: Thank God for putting a plan into action to make a way for us to have a relationship with God now and forever! Thank God for being a God who can do anything, yet still chose to send a Savior in such a humble and unexpected way! Thank God for the unending love that is communicated through the gift of Jesus. Ask God to help kids remember that Jesus is the greatest gift, better than any physical gift they could ever receive. Thank God for the excitement of the season and that we DO get to celebrate with gifts and fun traditions.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth meets regularly at the church on Wednesdays from 6-8pm through December 14.

FUMC Boys Basketball Team, grades 9-12!  Practice starts Monday, October 3 from 7 to 8:30 and will be the same time every Monday. Games begin in early January.  Parents, please contact Bob Byers (717-816-6976).  No experience necessary.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

We need a team to tear down Hungry Hearts on Thursday and to set up for Sunday service. This is a big ask -Huge! It's also a big need of the church. 

Visit Hungry Hearts

Women Connect
UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect
See you at our next gathering!
Team Haiti/Missions

THE OLD KNIT, CROCHET MARKETPLACE will be open Sundays starting November 27th in between church services and after services until Christmas.  Come do some Christmas shopping with us.   Proceeds will support UMCOR. Thank You.

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session coming soon.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Weekday Welcome Desk Help Needed.  If you can provide coverage at the welcome desk on Mondays OR be a backup when we have a need Tuesday –Thursday, from 9 o’clock to noon, please contact Stacey at 717-263-8491 or office4fumc@gmail.com

New Years Day Service is a Combined Worship in the FLC at 10am.

Important Note regarding upcoming events: If you are planning a church event, please contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

A Special Church Conference will be held on Sunday, January 29th at 2:00 PM in the FLC for voting regarding First Church remaining in, or disaffiliating from, the United Methodist Denomination. The Susquehanna Annua l Conference stipulates: only professing members present may speak and vote. Voting will be bypaper ballot. The voting results will be announced at the end of the church conference. A 2/3 vote is required to disaffiliate. Pastor Steve is available to discuss and answer any questions and address concerns you have about this process. Feel free to call his cell, 717-873-6626 or email him at pastor4fumc@gmail.com. He is also happy to meet with you in person.

Prayers for Healing

Don Nolder (recovering in rehab)

Gideon Hill (isolating at home)

Declan Parris fell and has a fracture - medical procedure 12/16.  Pray for his apprehension about the medical procedure

Declan's parents and family

Dave Decker

John Parson has been moved to skilled care

Bobbi Snyder

David Kauffman

Jenny Barnes

Jina Zook

Jan Horst

Gary Gettle

Tye(3yrs)

Sue

Lea

Prayers for Our World

Traveling mercies this holiday season.

Clean air and water for every child of God.

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

Wisdom for all government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - heat, drought, floods.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

Grief Share

Discernment talks/conversations
Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Linda Leidig

Lucille Lower

Vicki Leisher

Deb Ewing

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Dottie Vidil

Ed Wentz's Daughter and Son-in-law

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

Keep Christ the center of Christmas.

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

December 16, 2022

Today! Christmas cantata: “The Heart of Christmas”

Childcare is avilable for young children during the Cantata.

The Chancel Choir will present Pepper Choplin’s Christmas cantata, “The Heart of Christmas” on Sunday, December 18 at 10:00 am.

The Christmas story found in St. Luke’s gospel is told musically through the creative use of various musical styles, ranging from bluegrass to traditional carols.  Come join with us as we worship the newborn King.  Fellowship will follow in the FLC.

 

Christmas Outreach 2022!

This December families came together for an outreach event for the shut-ins of our church.  While the youth group held their regular meetings, we invited children and parents to help us to prepare gifts and make cookies (December 7th) then take the church bus around to deliver them (December 14th).

This past Wednesday was delivery night! Pastor Steve drove the bus and Gail co-piloted. During delivery the kids jumped and crawled across lawns like ninja elves to give our gifts and sing a few Christmas carols!

In Today's Service:

Diaconal Minister of Music - Linda Peppernick

Acolyte  -

Reader -

The altar flowers 

The centerpiece 

 To place flowers contact Bette Renshaw (717-263-3660)

 

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

CHRISTMAS PARTY FOR YMCA’S SAM’S PROGRAM KIDS

Hold the cookie baking! The YMCA has moved the date a week later! Sam’s Kids Program at the YMCA 6:30-8:00 ** Tuesday, December 20th **  We are looking for homemade cookies to be placed in the church kitchen by noon December 20th and marked for “Sam’s Kids.”  Also, monetary donations toward the pizza meal. See Susie Kunkle 717-352-2562

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

Donations can be made in person, by mail or through online giving.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Family Worship FAQs

Childcare available for 0-4yrs on December 18 at 10am for the Cantata.

Pray with us and/or for us (see below) Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Prayer Partner December Focus: Thank God for putting a plan into action to make a way for us to have a relationship with God now and forever! Thank God for being a God who can do anything, yet still chose to send a Savior in such a humble and unexpected way! Thank God for the unending love that is communicated through the gift of Jesus. Ask God to help kids remember that Jesus is the greatest gift, better than any physical gift they could ever receive. Thank God for the excitement of the season and that we DO get to celebrate with gifts and fun traditions.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth meets regularly at the church on Wednesdays from 6-8pm through December 14.

FUMC Boys Basketball Team, grades 9-12!  Practice starts Monday, October 3 from 7 to 8:30 and will be the same time every Monday. Games begin in early January.  Parents, please contact Bob Byers (717-816-6976).  No experience necessary.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

We need a team to tear down Hungry Hearts on Thursday and to set up for Sunday service. This is a big ask -Huge! It's also a big need of the church. 

Visit Hungry Hearts

Women Connect
UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect
We are looking forward to seeing YOU at Women Connect this Saturday, December 17, from 9-10:30am in the Connect Café at church.
There's a Song in The Air...we will be reflecting on the significance of the birth of Christ through music this Saturday.  Music will be provided by CVSM music students, Paula and YOU!  Background stories of the Carols shared by Paula.
As always, there will be refreshments and fellowship.
Team Haiti/Missions

THE OLD KNIT, CROCHET MARKETPLACE will be open Sundays starting November 27th in between church services and after services until Christmas.  Come do some Christmas shopping with us.   Proceeds will support UMCOR. Thank You

Joyful for Jesus  -Today! Help assemble gift baskets from donated items 11:00-12:30 in the basement Faith & Fellowship classroom. Join in the fun Friday, December 16 from 1:00-6:00 to share Christmas joy with our neighborhood community.  1:00-3:00 timeslots are full, elves are needed from 3:00-4:30 and 4:30-6:00 to pass out cookies and escort shoppers to the basement to choose a gift, help shoppers wrap their gifts, and share the love story of Jesus. Our Joy for Jesus inspires us to share His gifts as well as His Good News. Thanks to all of you who have donated gift baskets. Bakers: Dozens of homemade cookies would be appreciated.  For details, see Susie Kunkle or call 717-352-2562  spelunkin@hotmail.com

 

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session Starts: Sept. 12 - Nov. 28   1:00 - 3:00 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Weekday Welcome Desk Help Needed.  If you can provide coverage at the welcome desk on Mondays OR be a backup when we have a need Tuesday –Thursday, from 9 o’clock to noon, please contact Stacey at 717-263-8491 or office4fumc@gmail.com

New Years Day Service is a Combined Worship in the FLC at 10am.

Important Note regarding upcoming events: If you are planning a church event, please contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Discernment Meetings

Thank you to everyone who attended the information/discernment meetings on November 20th and December 8th.  Thank you for the loving spirit of the discussion on what is a difficult topic of conversation.  The previously announced date of January 8th for voting our discernment regarding First Church and the United Methodist Denomination has been postponed to sometime in February.  We will announce the day as soon as it is available.

The leadership team and the pastor hope to be afforded the opportunity to engage in conversations with Sunday school classes and small groups for further information discernment.

Three Links for further information are listed below.

UMC Official facts about disaffiliation.

The views/opinions expressed in the following links do not necessarily represent those of the leadership of First Church. 

Reconciling Ministries - Progressive movement (started in the 1980s) This is not a church denomination; nor is it affiliated with just one denomination. This is an organization that exists to advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and help other churches do the same.

People Need Jesus - A website/blog for the Global Methodist Church led by Chris Ritter who sits on the Global Council of the Wesleyan Covenant Association. Please be aware that readers who are sensitive may find comments on the blog triggering/offensive/political. It is always a good idea to avoid comment sections altogether.

Prayers for Healing

Don Nolder (recovering in rehab)

Gideon Hill (isolating at home)

Declan Parris fell and has a fracture - medical procedure 12/16.  Pray for his apprehension about the medical procedure

Pray for Declan's parents and family

Dave Decker

John Parson has been moved to skilled care

Bobbi Snyder

David Kauffman

Jenny Barnes

Jina Zook

Jan Horst

Gary Gettle

Tye(3yrs)

Sue

Lea

Prayers for Our World

Clean air and water for every child of God.

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

Wisdom for all government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - heat, drought, floods.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

Grief Share

Joyful for Jesus

Discernment talks/conversations
Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Linda Leidig

Lucille Lower

Vicki Leisher

Deb Ewing

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Dottie Vidil

Ed Wentz's Daughter and Son-in-law

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES

December 9, 2022

Christmas cantata: “The Heart of Christmas”

The Chancel Choir will present Pepper Choplin’s Christmas cantata, “The Heart of Christmas” on Sunday, December 18 at 10:00 am.

The Christmas story found in St. Luke’s gospel is told musically through the creative use of various musical styles, ranging from bluegrass to traditional carols.  Come join with us as we worship the newborn King.  Fellowship will follow in the FLC.

 

In Today's Service:

Diaconal Minister of Music - Linda Peppernick

Acolyte  - Landyn Stottlemyer

Reader - Linda Peppernick

The altar flowers are placed to the glory of God and in loving memory of of their son Bradley Scott who passed away December 13, 2021 by his parents, Ted and Denise Lucas and family.

The centerpiece is given to the glory of God by John Ile in loving memory of his wife Anna Mae who would have celebrated her birthday on December 15.

 To place flowers contact Bette Renshaw (717-263-3660)

 

Bicentennial Spotlight

ADVENT DEVOTIONAL BOOKLETS are available for pick up at the Welcome Center.

Did you know that if you can’t make your preferred Sunday morning service, you can come Thursday Night for a brief but meaningful service and stay for a delicious dinner?

At First Church you can!

It's called Dinner Church and you are welcome to join us every week to connect with God through worship and with our community through food and conversation!

CHRISTMAS PARTY FOR YMCA’S SAM’S PROGRAM KIDS

Hold the cookie baking! The YMCA has moved the date a week later! Sam’s Kids Program at the YMCA 6:30-8:00 ** Tuesday, December 20th **  We are looking for homemade cookies to be placed in the church kitchen by noon December 20th and marked for “Sam’s Kids.”  Also, monetary donations toward the pizza meal. See Susie Kunkle 717-352-2562

Watch our services on youtube at 12pm!

We also have a dedicated phone number so you can listen to latest recorded service at 717-899-4JOY (4569).

Donations can be made in person, by mail or through online giving.

MINISTRY UPDATES

Children's Ministry

Family Worship FAQs

Childcare available for 0-4yrs on December 18 at 10am for the Cantata.

Pray with us and/or for us (see below) Tuesdays at 2:52pm!

2022-2023 Parent Information Packet (Digital)

Prayer Partner December Focus: Thank God for putting a plan into action to make a way for us to have a relationship with God now and forever! Thank God for being a God who can do anything, yet still chose to send a Savior in such a humble and unexpected way! Thank God for the unending love that is communicated through the gift of Jesus. Ask God to help kids remember that Jesus is the greatest gift, better than any physical gift they could ever receive. Thank God for the excitement of the season and that we DO get to celebrate with gifts and fun traditions.

Visit First Lights.org for more

Youth Group

Illuminate Youth meets regularly at the church on Wednesdays from 6-8pm through December 14.

FUMC Boys Basketball Team, grades 9-12!  Practice starts Monday, October 3 from 7 to 8:30 and will be the same time every Monday. Games begin in early January.  Parents, please contact Bob Byers (717-816-6976).  No experience necessary.

Visit Illuminate.org for more

Hungry Hearts

We need a team to tear down Hungry Hearts on Thursday and to set up for Sunday service. This is a big ask -Huge! It's also a big need of the church. 

Visit Hungry Hearts

Women Connect
UPCOMING HAPPENINGS in Women Connect

Next Gathering: December 17, 2022

Team Haiti/Missions

THE OLD KNIT, CROCHET MARKETPLACE will be open Sundays starting November 27th in between church services and after services until Christmas.  Come do some Christmas shopping with us.   Proceeds will support UMCOR. Thank You

Joyful for Jesus  -Today! Help assemble gift baskets from donated items 11:00-12:30 in the basement Faith & Fellowship classroom. Join in the fun Friday, December 16 from 1:00-6:00 to share Christmas joy with our neighborhood community.  1:00-3:00 timeslots are full, elves are needed from 3:00-4:30 and 4:30-6:00 to pass out cookies and escort shoppers to the basement to choose a gift, help shoppers wrap their gifts, and share the love story of Jesus. Our Joy for Jesus inspires us to share His gifts as well as His Good News. Thanks to all of you who have donated gift baskets. Bakers: Dozens of homemade cookies would be appreciated.  For details, see Susie Kunkle or call 717-352-2562  spelunkin@hotmail.com

 

Pastoral Care Ministries

GriefShare -Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one - is a special weekly (13) seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life.  We know it hurts and we want to help. New Session Starts: Sept. 12 - Nov. 28   1:00 - 3:00 pm  in the Alda Bower Classroom.

Stephen Ministry is here to walk with you through difficult journeys.

Visit Pastoral Care Ministries

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Weekday Welcome Desk Help Needed.  If you can provide coverage at the welcome desk on Mondays OR be a backup when we have a need Tuesday –Thursday, from 9 o’clock to noon, please contact Stacey at 717-263-8491 or office4fumc@gmail.com

New Years Day Service is a Combined Worship in the FLC at 10am.

Important Note regarding upcoming events: If you are planning a church event, please contact Stacey in the church office so that we can coordinate all events in the church and are not overlapping ministries. Thank you!

Please contact the church about hospitalizations as we no longer are contacted when parishioners are hospitalized.

Discernment Meetings

Thank you to everyone who attended the information/discernment meetings on November 20th and December 8th.  Thank you for the loving spirit of the discussion on what is a difficult topic of conversation.  The previously announced date of January 8th for voting our discernment regarding First Church and the United Methodist Denomination has been postponed to sometime in February.  We will announce the day as soon as it is available.

The leadership team and the pastor hope to be afforded the opportunity to engage in conversations with Sunday school classes and small groups for further information discernment.

Three Links for further information are listed below.

UMC Official facts about disaffiliation.

The views/opinions expressed in the following links do not necessarily represent those of the leadership of First Church. 

Reconciling Ministries - Progressive movement (started in the 1980s) This is not a church denomination; nor is it affiliated with just one denomination. This is an organization that exists to advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and help other churches do the same.

People Need Jesus - A website/blog for the Global Methodist Church led by Chris Ritter who sits on the Global Council of the Wesleyan Covenant Association. Please be aware that readers who are sensitive may find comments on the blog triggering/offensive/political. It is always a good idea to avoid comment sections altogether.

Prayers for Healing

Don Nolder

Gideon Hill

Bobbi Snyder

David Kauffman

Jenny Barnes

Jina Zook

Jan Horst

Gary Gettle

Tye(3yrs)

Sue

Lea

Prayers for Our World

Clean air and water for every child of God.

For an end to the invasion of Ukraine.

Wisdom for all government leaders.

God's intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

Relief for those dealing with severe weather - heat, drought, floods.

Healing for our divided country, nations, and leaders.

All Military and Law Enforcement and First Responders and Essential Workers.

Prayers for Church Ministries, Events and Special projects

Stephen Ministry

First Lights Children's Ministry

Illuminate Youth Ministry

Hungry Hearts Ministry

Grief Share

Joyful for Jesus

Discernment talks/conversations
Prayers needed for these members with long term concerns:

Dick Jenkins

Don Nolder

Shirley Jones

Mary Butts

Linda Leidig

Lucille Lower

Vicki Leisher

Deb Ewing

Connie Love

Jane Pensinger

Barb Armstrong

Susie Bulger

Kathy Beaston

Don Ardery

Ron Diehl

Wayne Gettel

Steve Hessong

Dottie Vidil

Ed Wentz's Daughter and Son-in-law

Prayers of Comfort, Peace and Condolence

Wisdom, strength and comfort for in-home caregivers.

Families struggling with grief and loss.

Families struggling with housing and financial issues.

Families struggling with reconciliation and forgiveness.

Peace for those dealing with anxiety.

Faith for those who struggle to believe in what they cannot see.

PREVIOUS WEEKLY UPDATES