News From the Pews

Quarterly Magazine

A Letter from the Desk of Rev. James

The Session Expression

Full Calender of Music in the Fall

A Summer of Fun and Farewells for Youth Looking Ahead with FPC Students

Education Task Force Gives Update

Kairos Kids Staying Busy

Update From the APNC

Montessori in Full Swing

Childcare Grows Space

Season 8 Lewis and Broad Explores

Health

doing nothing less than the business of God

person described a circuitous journey that ultimately landed them at a place they can call home. Another offered a powerful account detailing just how, after a challenging time, FPC helped them to sing yet again. As we sat in that room listening to their stories, you could hear a pin drop.

For all the talk this time of year about stewardship and generosity and fundraising and bottom lines, it’s easy to lose sight of precisely why we do what we do at FPC. We don’t turn in budgets to keep the lights on; we do so to shed the Spirit’s light upon people’s lives. We don’t calculate costs to maximize a return on investment; we do so to invest in the Gospel of hope and peace.

We don’t meet for the sake of meeting, just so we can continue business as usual; we meet for the sake of conducting the business — God’s business — of community, of creation and congregational care, of Christ.

We empower God’s people to sing once more.

Within this edition of News from the Pews, you will see evidence of First Presbyterian Church at work, doing nothing less than the business of God.

It is why we do what we do — not so all Presbyterians or church members will know God’s love, but so all people will know God’s love. These are the stories of a church in action.

Rev.

James Goodlet

The session expression

It has been a busy season for the Session,who met a number of times over the summer to address important items for action. Below are some highlights from the elders' work.

On September 21,the Session received new member David Baarda by transfer of letter from First Presbyterian Church in Milledgeville. The Session also received Emmy Maffett by profession of faith. She and her daughter,Zoe Ware,will be baptized in worship on October 12.

The Associate Pastor Nominating Committee (APNC) continues their work of searching for a new Pastor for Youth and Family Ministries. They have spoken and met with a number of highly qualified candidates and have ventured far down the road with some finalists. At this point,they are in the process of scheduling further interviews and on-site visits with some exciting possibilities. It should also be noted that the APNC has worked closely with the Personnel Council,Finance Council,and the Session to create a non-ordained Director for Youth and Family Ministries position. This will broaden the candidate pool as the APNC looks for the best fit — be they ordained or non-ordained — to steward this important ministry forward.

At the August meeting,the Campus Task Force presented some master plan concepts to the Session. These are still very much in the draft stage and will depend largely upon the work of the Education Task Force.

Relatedly,the Education Task Force has been discerning a long-term best course of action related to Childcare and Montessori. The primary issues that the task force is working to alleviate is a dearth of affordable,accessible early childhood education options in our community and a significant lack of support for our teachers. While there have been conversations centering around a potential one-school,one-board model,there has also been substantial concern expressed from the congregation and community about the viability and practicality of such an approach. At the September 21 Session meeting,the Education Task Force asked if it should continue researching such a possibility. The elders responded that,yes,the group should research all potential directions (i.e.,one-board,one-school,or otherwise) and seek to make recommendations to Session for consideration in early 2026. At that point,the Session will make the ultimate decision regarding Childcare and Montessori’s design and configuration.

In September,the Session also approved a request from the Childcare Board — initially presented in July — to move into what is presently the Session Room in early 2026. That move will allow the Childcare up to 28 additional spots for those in our community requiring care.

Finance Council and Session approved the 2026 requested annual budget,which is $1,023,013.38. The Generosity Committee will now begin their work to reach the important goal of a fully-funded budget.

Over the summer,the Session also approved numerous policy updates,including a new section entitled “Life Together.” This portion of the policy offers guidance on a variety of issues,ranging from how to address sexual harassment malfeasance to inclement weather and medical emergency procedures.

Last but not least,Session,via House and Grounds Council,approved a number of on-site First Arts events for the fall,including six concerts in the sanctuary between October and December.

a full fall season of music

By: Andrew Harry

All of the First Arts groups had a great summer break and are excited to share and lead in worship this fall. Recently, the Chancel Choir joined the Young Singers of West Georgia and the LaGrange College Singers for a beautiful Evensong Service.. It was an evening of scripture and song, with the singers presenting uplifting music that offered hope and a reminder of God’s love.

The Handbell Choir is excited about and grateful for new handchimes that we received early this summer, expanding the range of our instruments to allow for more ringers and more variety in music. The new handchimes were a gift from the Holle family, given in memory of Page Holle.

Kairos Kids Choir launched for the fall with a longer rehearsal time allowing for our students to sing more and learn from their director, Lauren Collins. You can expect to hear our students sing in the service on October 19.

We are excited to host a number of other arts events at FPC from students at Callaway High School, Troup High Schoo as well as the Choral Society of West Georgia and the Sons have stewardship of a beautiful church sanctuary for even mission of sharing God's love with all those in our commun

A Summer of Faith, Friendship, and Farewells

By: Leighton Parker

This summer was a busy and joy-filled one for our student ministry program. We kicked things off at the High School Montreat Conference, where we rock-hopped around Lake Susan, drank plenty of Cheerwine, danced to about a bazillion energizers, and most importantly, connected with one another and with God. Throughout the week, we were reminded that God’s light is always with us and that He faithfully lights the path for our lives. Our youth also volunteered with VBS (yes, that meant even more energizers), served for a week at Camp Viola (where we met new friends, made lasting camp memories, and—you guessed it—danced to more energizers), and wrapped up the summer with the Middle School Montreat Conference in Maryville, Tennessee. There, we learned that we are all wonder-filled children of God, played endless rounds of Uno No Mercy and Hues and Cues, feasted on candy salad, and of course, danced to even more energizers.

One of the highlights of the summer was when our youth led worship and shared what they had learned at Montreat—who could forget those confetti poppers. We grew not only in our faith, but also in the friendships that make this group feel like family. From silly moments to sacred ones, God was at work in and through our students in powerful ways. The joy, energy, and love that filled this summer will carry us into the year ahead with hope and excitement for what is to come.

This season has also been filled with love, laughter, and lots of see-you-laters, including one to me. This summer marked my last with this incredible group, and I already miss you all dearly. At the same time, I am grateful for the hard work of our APNC as they continue the search for an associate pastor to walk alongside these amazing middle and high schoolers. You got this, APNC. Do not give up—I believe in you, and I am so grateful for your dedication and prayers.

Thank you, FPC family, for supporting, encouraging, and loving our youth through another incredible summer.

By: James Goodlet

It has been an amazing start to the year for our First Presbyterian Church high school and middle school students.

After a beautiful afternoon on West Point Lake hosted by the Tumambings, we launched into the fall with our Wednesday and Sunday night schedule. On Wednesdays, we’ve had Bible studies and games in the Eric Brown Building after energizing and singing with the Kairos kiddos. We have also begun our Sunday night series, The Gospel According to ChatGPT, which is preceded by some delicious meals prepped by church members.

We are grateful to the Student Ministry Committee and the congregation at FPC for your support. We’re looking forward to an exciting fall ahead, including a trip to Pumpkins at Callaway on October 26, the Trunk or Treat on October 29, and a Friendsgiving meal on November 23. Stay tuned.

FPC’s Education Task Force: Shaping the Next Chapter

Nearly three years ago, an Education Task Force (ETF) was commissioned by the board of First Presbyterian Church (FPC) — the Session — to ensure alignment between the congregation’s education ministries and its vision statement: that all may know God’s love. Since then, the ETF has spent considerable time establishing priorities, evaluating early childhood education models, and discerning the direction we feel God is leading us for such a time as this.

Currently, FPC has two excellent on-site schools — FPC Childcare and Montessori — with nearly 80 years (combined) of experience preparing our community’s children for their elementary years. These high-quality programs are served by outstanding teachers and directors who continue their faithful stewardship of these schools.

In its work, the ETF has realized, however, that there remains a dire need in our community for fully affordable, fully accessible early childhood education. This problem creates an uneven playing field on which some our children arrive to elementary school more kindergarten-ready than others, which research reveals is a gap that only widens over time.

While the work of FPC’s Childcare and Montessori schools is extraordinary, neither program is able to guarantee access for all of our community’s children due to a variety of factors such as pricing (though there are currently limited financial aid opportunities for both), hours, and calendar year vs. school year considerations. Likewise, research also shows that early childhood educators are far too often underpaid, under-resourced, under-benefited, and undervalued. This can foster cultural problems like low teacher morale and issues with teacher retention.

These are critical community pain points the ETF hopes to address. As such, the ETF is examining a potential reconfiguration of our onsite schools that will address the issues of educational inequality and under-supported teachers. Additionally, the ETF is examining the feasibility of a one-school, one-board approach for its on-site schools.

However, it is important to note that the ETF remains open to a two-school model. The key is to pursue whichever model best serves the mission of creating a space where all children can know the love of God. The ETF will continue its work until early 2026, when it will make a final presentation to the Session outlining its recommendations. The Session will then have final say as to whether or not to approve the ETF’s proposals.

By alerting the schools, community, and congregation at this early date about the prospective plan, the intent is for the ETF to receive input from all interested and invested parties as together we discern where the Spirit is leading us. The ETF has already received a mix of affirmations and concerns, both of which will shape the discernment process. Gathering additional perspectives will be essential as the ETF moves forward.

. In the meantime, the ETF covets your prayers as, together, we seek to respond to this critical community need for fully affordable, fully accessible early childhood education centers. So that all may know God’s love,

The Education Task Force of First Presbyterian Church — Susan Cashwell, Kim Crawford, James Goodlet (staff), Margaret Goodlet (staff), James Hobbs, Debbie Hutchinson, David Sellman, Todd Simpson (chair), Lacy Tumambing

Kairos Kids Launching into Fall with Energy and Faith

By: Margaret Goodlet

Kairos Kids has had a full and faith-filled season since the last update in May.

This summer, more than 100 children participated in Vacation Bible School, embarking on a “road trip” theme that highlighted God’s constant presence on life’s journey. The week was made possible by the dedication of over 50 youth and adult volunteers who gave their time and energy to ensure a meaningful experience for all.

In June, the 3rd–5th grade group spent a day serving lunch to community guests, gaining a deeper understanding of how First Presbyterian Church lives out its mission of service in LaGrange.

As the new school year began, Kairos Kids celebrated with a Blessing of the Backpacks during Sunday worship, distributing more than 50 keychains as reminders of God’s presence wherever students go.

The fall Wednesday night program is now underway with a new for in the sanctuary, where children of all ages gather for energizers an church’s youth. Afterward, groups break out for age-appropriate le exploring Bible stories that emphasize God’s protection.

Kairos Kids continues to be a vibrant part o children opportunities to grow in faith, serv community.

Seeking Together: An Update from the APNC

By: Denise Orendorff

As we move into the fall season, your APNC remains steadfast in prayer and diligence as we continue the search for FPC’s Associate Pastor for Youth and Families. Since our last report, we journeyed with a candidate into the final stages of the process.

Although we were unable to cross the finish line together, the experience prompted us to refine our approach and expand our search.

In addition to continuing recruitment for the Associate Pastor role, we also opened the possibility of a Director of Youth and Family position—a non-ordained role with comparable duties. At present, however, we are encouraged to share that our current candidates are ordained pastors actively interviewing for the Associate Pastor of Youth and Families position. We have conducted virtual interviews and are preparing to welcome both candidates to LaGrange this fall for in-person interviews with the full APNC, including our youth.

Even as we focus on these promising candidates, we continue to monitor new matches through the Church Leadership Connection (CLC), carefully vet every opportunity, and prayerfully discern each next step. While the process has required patience and perseverance, we are encouraged and hopeful.

We trust that God is guiding both us and the right candidate toward one another, and we remain grateful for your prayers and support along the way.

Staying busy and joyful in childcare

By: Tasha Owens

FPC Childcare experienced a full and productive spring season, with celebrations for Earth Day, Easter, Teacher Appreciation Week, and Mother’s Day. Children engaged in seasonal activities, and teachers were honored for their dedication and care.

This spring, two child care staff members moved into Groundsprings housing. The center is grateful to First Presbyterian Church for supporting teachers through this opportunity.

In March, the Childcare center received a visit from the state licensing agency and met all required standards. In April, the health department reviewed immunization records and gave the center a 100% compliance rating.

The center is also preparing for the transition of 18 children who will be moving on to Pre-K or Kindergarten at the end of the school year.

For more information about the childcare center visit fpcchildcare.org.

Montessori semester in Full Swing

By: Kristin Kirby

FPC Montessori began the 25/26 year with excitement and several new faces. Enrollment is at 71 students. The month of August we focused on learning how to care for ourselves and our classroom environment.

New friendships were made and our hands were very busy rolling rugs, pouring water, counting numbers, learning our first group of letters, and more. September flew by. Our school was visited by several community helpers to help us provide a hands-on learning experience during our safety month. So far our students have learned about creation, Noah's ark, and Father Abraham. Our classes love to attend chapel and pray together at carpet time every day! As October begins we are excited to celebrate fall.

Our field trip to Oakhurst Farms was an adventure. We cannot wait to see what the remainder of the school year brings.

Growing Spaces and Smiles

By: LaTasha Owens

We’re thrilled to be expanding our childcare capacity. By incorporating the session room into the childcare area, we can transform it into a dedicated space for one-year-olds. Meanwhile, the children currently in the one-year-old group will move to a newly established Infant room, which will serve babies from six weeks up to eight months old.

With this expanded capacity, we will be able to accommodate at least twelve families who are currently on our waiting list, as well as provide enrollment opportunities for six parents and the grandchildren of two church members.

We have been busy celebrating Grandparents Day, raising awareness for breast cancer, and enjoying Halloween festivities. During Grandparents Day, children and their grandparents ate cinnamon rolls and orange juice. Halloween brought an extra dose of excitement, with the children decorating the halls and their classrooms.

Season 8 Launches with Sto h

By: Jenna Eady

The Lewis and Broad podcast has returned with Season 8, and this year’s focus is on health. Over the past several weeks, we have had the privilege of speaking with a wide range of people from our community including trainers, therapists, runners, and others who dedicate their lives to helping others live well. Each guest brings a unique perspective, but the message is consistent. Movement is medicine, caring for our bodies and minds is essential, and taking steps toward wellness at any stage of life makes a difference.

Throughout these conversations, listeners are invited to explore what health truly means. It is not only about physical fitness, but also about mental resilience, perseverance, and the support we find in community. Guests share personal stories of triumph, lessons learned from setbacks, and insights into how they approach wellness in their own lives. The season highlights how small changes, consistent effort, and intentional care can have a lasting impact.

Season 8 of Lewis and Broad is available now wherever you listen to podcasts. Take the time to tune in, be encouraged by these powerful stories, and consider how the message of movement, care, and resilience might inspire your own journey toward health.