TALK OF THE TOWN
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
Keep up with all things FIBC via our monthly Talk of the Town Newsletter! Want to send the newsletter to someone? Email us at info@fibcaz org
CALENDAR OF EVENTS CALENDAR OF EVENTS PRAYER & BIBLE STUDY PRAYER & BIBLE STUDY
Pre-Noonday Prayer
Bible Study
Praise Team & Band Rehearsal
4th of July Observance Office Closed
First Sunday - The Lord’s Super
Pre-Noonday Prayer
Bible Study
Praise Team & Band Rehearsal
Teacher Training Day
Men’s Fellowship Breakfast
Second Sunday
Pre-Noonday Prayer
Bible Study
Praise Team & Band Rehearsal
Young Adult Fellowship Outing
Third Sunday
Pre-Noonday Prayer
Bible Study
Praise Team & Band Rehearsal
Disciple U New Member Class
Fourth Sunday - Back to School Sunday
Back to School Bash
Pre-Noonday Prayer
Intercessory Prayer
Sundays and Wednesdays In-Person & Online
We invite you to unite with us in prayer on Sundays before worship services and Wednesdays before Bible Study.
Each Wednesday you're invited to grab your lunch and Bible and join us for prayer and Bible Study in the middle of the day
Congregational prayer begins at 11:30 a m , followed by Bible Study at noon
In-person Bible Study will meet in The Hope Center Chapel Zoom ID: 602 258 1998 Passcode: 1141
TALK OF THE TOWN
Blessings upon you in the Mighty and Matchless Name of Jesus the Christ.IwasindeedhonoredandhumbledtobeaskedbyPastorStewart and leadership to serve as a Co-Interim Pastor of First Institutional Baptist Church. I will confess that when my wife (Sheila) and I returned to FIBC after 28 years of pastoring I had no idea, thought, desire, etc. that God had another assignment for me to use my ministerial experience, and spiritual insights at a church setting that is going through a transitioning of a distinguish Senior Pastor's guidance and leadership. I reverently refer to Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr., my friend, brother,andpastor.
With that said, I am grateful to work alongside Dr. Donta McGlivery (a young man!) in providing spirit-led leadership, embracing July's theme...Our Spiritual Assignment-Passing the Lord's Baton in New and Different Ways. I have high expectations from God while FIBC is entering a season of "Newness" and "Differentness" (Yes, that's a word/term!)
ToGodBEtheGlory!
JamesL.Harris,Jr.,Co-InterimPastor,FIBC
Greetings,FIBCMembersandSupporters,
It is a tremendous joy to serve as your Co-Interim Pastor during this sacred season of transition as we await the next Lead Pastor God has prepared for us. Our June theme, created by Dr. Stewart, invites us to reflect on “Our Spiritual Assignment Passing the Lord’s Baton in New and Different Ways.” And speaking of unexpected paths, I never imagined I’d be called to serve in this role but I trust that God delights insurprisinguswithdivinepurpose.Momentsliketheseremindusthat weneverhaveGodfullyfiguredout,whichiswhyJameswiselycounsels ustosay,“IftheLordwills,wewillliveanddothisorthat”(James4:15).
As we pass the Lord’s baton, may we do so with open hands and hearts, ready to follow where He leads even when the way is unfamiliar. Let’s ask together, “God, is there a new or different way you are calling us to move?” In the coming weeks, we’ll study grief through a special Bible lesson prepared and taught by Dr. Watson, gather for Super Sized Worship-one service each Sunday in July, and joyfully welcome a pastoral candidate the final week of July. Pastor Harris and I look forwardwithexpectationtowhatGodwilldonext.
Blessings,
Rev.Dr.DontáMcGilvery,Co-InterimPastor,FIBC
Hitting the Highlights Hitting the Highlights
THIS
Navigating Personal & Congregational Grief
As we enter a new chapter and new normal as a congregation, we invite you to join Dr Carolyn Watson for a special two-part Bible Study series, “A Season of Navigating Personal and Congregational Grief” beginning this Wednesday
The transition of pastoral leadership can bring out different types of emotions and as we all know, grief can be fickle Our sessions will begin with Pre-noonday prayer at 11:30 a m , followed by Bible Study at noon This is your opportunity to learn more about how to navigate FIBC’s new normal.
Embracing the New Normal
Coming off the heels of our special Bible Study with Dr. Carolyn Watson, we invite you to connect with Reverend Jordan Hampton, for the next Bible Study series, “Embracing the New Normal,” kicking off on Wednesday, July 16 This series will build upon the transition FIBC is currently in and how we can thrive in our next season
Teacher Training and Mentoring Day
If you are a current Sunday Bible Studies teacher or are interested in learning more about this ministry opportunity, we invite you to join us for a Teacher and Mentor Training Day on Saturday, July 12 at 12 p.m. You’ll get the opportunity to connect with Reverend Jordan Hampton, FIBC’s Pastor of Congregational Care and Outreach and discuss teaching and engagement strategies, as well as deepen your knowledge of our current curriculum and future planning.
Visit our website or jump in the FIBC app to let us know you ’ re attending. You can also contact Reverend Hampton in the office
Hitting the Highlights Hitting the Highlights
THIS MONTH'S ACTIVITIES THIS MONTH'S ACTIVITIES
Young Adult Fellowship Outing
The next Young Adult Fellowship Outing will tak place on Saturday, July 19 Meet our ministry membe at Tilt Studio at Arizona Mills and enjoy an evening gaming, food, fun and fellowship
We need a headcount of those interested in attendin Visit our website or jump in the APP and let us kno you ’ re planning on joining the fun at Arizona Mills
Back to School Bash
The dog days of summer are far from over our students and educators are prepar back to the classroom, which means we ’ r for our annual Back to School Bash on Sun
This year ’ s event will take over The Hope we want to see you and your entire beginning with worship at 9:30 a.m. as we Super Sized Summer Worship Services. Th The Hope Center Gym beginning at 12 p.m food, and fun for students of all ages in backpacks, school supplies, haircuts and shoe giveaways and more!
School supplies can be dropped off on Sundays at the Sanctuary Welcome Center and in The Hope Center Lobby during business hours Visit our website for more information
New Member Class
The next opportunity for you to learn more about FIBC, who we are, what we believe and why we believe it, is coming up The next Disciple U New Member Class will take place on Saturday, July 26 If you ’ re interested in attending, please call the office
MEN’S CORNER
Connect with the FIBC Men’s Ministry
MY TESTIMONY: LIVING THE BEATITUDES
There was a time in my life when I thought strength meant having all the answers, or at least having a sense that things were within grasp. While I was fortunate to have been raised with a sense that vulnerability was not weakness, society still always emphasized strength through stoicism first. But that illusion shattered when my career path floundered, my first marriage completely fell apart, and I found myself alone, sitting on the edge of my bed with my face in my hands wondering what went wrong and what I wouldn’t have given to just have felt that my wife loved me again.
It was during those quiet, broken nights that I stumbled on the Beatitudes in the book of Matthew. “Blessed are the poor in spirit…” The words hit me like a wave. For the first time, I realized it was okay to be empty. In fact, it was in my emptiness that God could finally fill me.
“Blessed are those who mourn…” I mourned not just the life I lost, but the person I had become—wounded, unceasingly angry, and aloof. And in that mourning, I found comfort— not from circumstances, but from God’s presence. He never left me, even when I had walked away from Him, after seeking counsel and solace from my childhood church and being told my marriage was always doomed because we had lived together before marriage. I didn’t walk into a church again for ten years after that day.
As I began to let go of my need to control everything, I understood what it meant to be meek—not weak, but surrendered. Slowly, I started to hunger and thirst for something more than success or recognition. I craved righteousness. I wanted to live differently, to be a better man, not for appearances, but for God and for my new family.
Along the way, I met people who showed me mercy when I didn’t deserve it. Their grace taught me how to forgive others and myself. And as I kept seeking God, He began to cleanse my heart, breaking the layers of bitterness and pride that had built up over the years like a blocked artery.
Now, I try to live as a peacemaker, especially with my kids and family. It’s not easy, but I’ve learned that peace doesn’t mean avoiding conflict it means bringing the love of Christ into the mess.
The Beatitudes didn’t just comfort me they transformed me. Through them, I found not only healing, but purpose. I’m still a work in progress, but I know I’m no longer building my life on sand. I’m standing on the Rock.
From: ANONYMOUS
MEN’S CORNER
Connect with the FIBC Men’s Ministry
CONNECT WITH THE MEN’S MINISTRY
We want to see every man involved and engaged with the Men’s Ministry. In addition to the Sunday Bible Study class there are also monthly meetings and fellowship gatherings throughout the year, along with Men’s Month and Sunday, held in October.
2025 Theme: “No Man Left Behind”
Vision Statement: “Drawing, Developing, Disciplining and Deploying Men for the Cause of Christ”
Vision Scripture: “Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach.” – Mark 3:13-14
Upcoming Ministry Engagement Opportunities in 2025
Men’s Fellowship Breakfast - Saturday, July 12, Golden Corral, Goodyear Men’s Retreat - tentatively scheduled for August 29-31, Emmanuel Pines, Prescott
Men’s Fishing Fellowship - Saturday, October 11
Men’s Sunday - Sunday, October 12
Church Center
Stay up-to-date with everything happening in the Men’s Ministry! Join the Men’s Ministry Group in the FIBC APP today. Download instructions at fibcaz.org and search “Men’s Ministry” in groups. Call the church office if you need connecting support.
Focus FIBCO in
FIBCO Family Services, Inc. focuses on five primary program areas:
Quality Food by providing free meal options to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.
Clothing distribution by providing clothing to those in need.
Affordable housing by offering safe and affordable housing to low-income individuals through a partnership with HUD African Immigrant and Refugee Support by providing resources and support to African immigrants and refugees.
Health and Healthcare by addressing healthcare disparities and improving access to care.
From the Executive Director From the Executive Director
Akilah Stewart Akilah Stewart
I am pleased to report that FIBCO Family Services, Inc. is continuing to I am pleased to report that FIBCO Family Services, Inc is continuing to impact lives in the greater Phoenix area. impact lives in the greater Phoenix area.
A big THANK YOU to all our FIBCO volunteers A big THANK YOU to all our FIBCO volunteers.
Thank you to everyone who has donated items to our various Thank you to everyone who has donated items to our various campaigns and efforts. We accept donations at any time. campaigns and efforts. We accept donations at any time.
Your continued support of FIBCO Family Services, Inc. is making a Your continued support of FIBCO Family Services, Inc. is making a difference in the Greater Phoenix area. difference in the Greater Phoenix area.
Stewart THIS MONTH ’ S HIGHLIGHTS
MONTH ’ S HIGHLIGHTS
Stewart
FIBCO Family Services, Inc. has refurbished the computer lab and began classes in April 2025. We are
FIBCO Family Services, Inc. has refurbished the computer lab and began classes in April 2025. We are currently hosting a weekly class focused on English literacy. Stay tuned for more classes to come. currently hosting a weekly class focused on English literacy. Stay tuned for more classes to come.
FIBCO participated in a fathers baby shower hosted by South Phoenix Healthy Start. We were able to
FIBCO Family Services, Inc. is once again proud to partner with
FIBCO Family Services, Inc. is once again proud to partner with FIBC Student Ministries for the annual Back to School Bash. FIBC Student Ministries for the annual Back to School Bash. Generous contributions from community members like you ensure Generous contributions from community members like you ensure the services of this non-profit continue and expand through the services of this non-profit continue and expand through programs like the Back to School Bash. programs like the Back to School Bash.
School supply donations can be dropped off on Sundays and during School supply donations can be dropped off on Sundays and during business hours. business hours.
FIBCO participated in a fathers baby shower hosted by South Phoenix Healthy Start. We were able to provide the community with information about services that FIBCO can support them with and gave provide the community with information about services that FIBCO can support them with and gave out food boxes to participants! out food boxes to participants! STAY CONNECTED TO
Akilah
Akilah
A big THANK You to all of our FIBCO Volunteers. In May 2025, A big THANK You to all of our FIBCO Volunteers. In May 2025, they contributed 199 volunteer hours! We couldn’t do it without they contributed 199 volunteer hours! We couldn’t do it without you! FIBCO Family Services served a total of 2,210 individuals you! FIBCO Family Services served a total of 2,210 individuals through food and clothing distributions in May 2025. through food and clothing distributions in May 2025.
LEARN MORE ABOUT FIBCO WATCH THIS VIDEO
DONATION DRIVE ALERT!
DONATION DRIVE ALERT!
As the Arizona winter starts cooling off our desert, we
As the Arizona winter starts cooling off our desert, we are always looking for donations to support the are always looking for donations to support the unhoused and underserved community. Please unhoused and underserved community. Please consider a donation today: consider a donation today:
warm blankets and socks warm blankets and socks water bottles water bottles
reusable water bottles and bags
reusable water bottles and bags
toiletry items toiletry items
Items can be dropped off on Sundays at the Sanctuary Items can be dropped off on Sundays at the Sanctuary Welcome Center and during Business Hours at The Welcome Center and during Business Hours at The Hope Center Lobby. Hope Center
Stay in t he Know Stay in t he Know
VOLUNTEER | SERVE | GIVE | SHARE VOLUNTEER | SERVE | GIVE | SHARE
ers Needed
stries are continuing to make the transition ife on the FIBC campus and that means we ore volunteer support. We want you to find e in ministry and serve, and trust and believe, plenty of room for you to use your gifts and
need of volunteers for ministries like the Security (Ministry of Protection), Multi-Media dent Ministries But there are other places you e Please take the next step by calling the ffice or emailing to let us know you're ready to ministry
Open Staff Positions
As our ministries return to campus, we're also hiring some much needed staff positions. We recently reorganized our staff positions and we are accepting applications for the following positions:
Various Family Life (Student Ministries) positions
Visit our website for information on how to apply
#didyouknow FIBC has a YouTube Channel? Did you know you can watch our services and Bible Studies live from your smart device, including a tv, on YouTube? Don't forget, we’ve moved all our streaming to YouTube. You can enjoy worship services, bible studies and other special events and programs, streamed direct to a television or any smart device.
Stay in t he Know Stay in t he Know
VOLUNTEER | SERVE | GIVE | SHARE
VOLUNTEER | SERVE | GIVE | SHARE
Ways to Give
Whether worshiping in person or online, you have the opportunity to give generously through tithes and offering. Your generous support of FIBC goes a long way in helping us fulfill our mission, vision and purpose.
Ways to Give:
U.S. Mail or In-Person (1141 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, AZ 85034)
CashAPP using the tag $FIBCAZ
Online at fibcaz.org and click on "Give"
Text to Give using the number 480-568-3880
Legacy Giving
As part of your giving, consider making a contribution to the FIBC Legacy Endowment. Established to cultivate life-long support of our mission and ministries, this is a key component of our stewardship ministry and vital in ensuring the perpetuity of FIBC.
There are several ways you can contribute to the endowment. For more information visit our website or call the church office.
er Contact Information Update
information up to date with the office? Do we have your mailing address, email and telephone number? As we e to enter a time of transition, we need you to verify update your contact information
bcaz org for information on how you can affirm your ership or call the office
TALK OF THE TOWN
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
First Institutional Baptist Church, 1141 East Jefferson Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85034
Telephone 602-258-1998 Fax: 602-256-2957
Website: www fibcaz org Email: info@fibcaz org
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE HOURS: Tuesday-Friday 8:00 a m -4:00 p m
FIBCO FAMILY SERVICES, INC ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE HOURS: Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10:30 a m -12:30 p m
WORSHIP AND BIBLE STUDY TIMES: Sunday Worship: 7:30 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.
Children & Youth Worship: 9:00 a.m.
Sunday Bible Studies: 9:30 a.m.
African Worship Service: 9:30 a.m.
Wednesday Pre-Noonday Prayer and Bible Study: 11:30 a.m. & 12:00 p.m. (noon)
Wednesday Evening Bible Study: 7:00 p m
Interim Pastors - Pastor James L Harris, Jr and Dr Donta’ McGilvery
Executive Director of Operations - Bro Deangelo D Hall Ext 2205 | dhall@fibcaz org
Pastor of Family Life - The Rev Thomas Claiborn, IV Ext 2206 | tclaiborn@fibcaz org
Pastor of Congregational Care and Outreach - The Rev Jordan Hampton Ext 2228 | jhampton@fibcaz org
Acting Director of Worship - The Rev Kendall Washington kwashington@fibcaz org
Creative Director of Virtual and Multi-Media - Bro Maarcus Hall Ext 2208 | mhall@fibcaz org
Minister of Pastoral Counseling - Dr Carolyn Watson Ext 2227 | cwatson@fibcaz org
FIBCO Family Services, Inc. Executive Director - Akilah Stewart akilah stewart@fibco org