(See pages 12-19)
The Women Who Lead Us (Pastor's article, pages 2-3)
The National Day of Prayer and Prayer Walk is Here May 1! (see page 8)
Welcome Confirmation Students as Newest FPC Covenant Partners! (Pages 9-11, 28) See Save the Dates for the Next Season at FPC! (Pages 4-7)
Easter Lilies Honor our Loved Ones (Pages 15-19)
“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
- Proverbs 31:25 (NIV)
On Easter Sunday (which was awesome, by the way), we read together Mark’s version of the Resurrection story. Even though each version of the story is different in the Gospels, there are several common threads. The most important— “Christ is Risen!” Another very important theme is that the first people to hear those words and spread the good news were women. Mark says that “Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him.” This was not just an act of love and respect for Jesus. It was an act of bravery because they risked exposure as his followers.
This month, we celebrate Mother’s Day—a time to honor the women who have shaped our lives and faith with their love, wisdom, strength, and faithfulness. At First Presbyterian Church, we recognize that the calling to nurture, teach, lead, and disciple is not reserved for a few but is the shared calling of all God's people. In the spirit of our ECO Presbyterian values, we affirm the gifts and leadership of women in every sphere of life—including the church, the family, and the community.
REV. DR. BOB FULLER
At ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians, we affirm that both men and women are called and gifted by God for leadership in the church. ECO holds an egalitarian view of ministry leadership, meaning we believe that men and women are equally created in the image of God and are both fully capable, gifted, and authorized by Scripture to serve in any leadership role, including elder, deacon, and pastor.
The word egalitarian comes from the French word "égal," meaning "equal." In Christian theology, egalitarianism refers to the belief that leadership roles and spiritual authority in the church are based on calling and gifting, not on gender. Men and women are to serve alongside each other, sharing leadership, ministry, and mission for the glory of God and the building up of the church. In sum, ECO is an egalitarian denomination that celebrates how God uses the leadership of women and men together to accomplish His work in the world.
ECO’s essential tenets reflect this commitment:
• We believe that the Bible teaches the equal value and dignity of men and women (Genesis 1:27).
• We recognize that the Holy Spirit equips both men and women for every ministry task (Acts 2:17-18).
• We affirm that the mission of the church is best fulfilled when the gifts of all believers—male and female—are encouraged and empowered.
Throughout Scripture, we see women playing vital roles in God's redemptive story, including judges, prophets, church planters, and teachers:
• Deborah led a nation with wisdom and courage.
• Huldah was named as a prophet.
• Mary said "yes" to God's impossible calling to bear and raise the Savior of the world.
• Priscilla taught and discipled in the early church alongside her husband, Aquila.
• Phoebe is named as a deacon.
• Lydia opened her home and her heart to birth a new Christian community.
ECO honors this biblical pattern by welcoming and ordaining women to all offices of leadership and ministry within the church.
Mother’s Day invites us to celebrate not only biological mothers but also spiritual mothers—women who invest in the lives of others through prayer, mentorship, and discipleship. Some women may have biological children; others may have spiritual sons and daughters. Some may nurture through teaching, pastoring, leading ministries, or serving behind the scenes with quiet faithfulness. Every act of love and leadership reflects the heart of God.
In Christ’s Kingdom, the Spirit gifts and calls women and men alike to lead, to serve, to teach, and to make disciples. This Mother’s Day, we give thanks for the women who answer that call with courage, creativity, and compassion. We rejoice in an inheritance of faith that is passed down not only through family bloodlines but also through the relationships God knits together in His church.
As you celebrate this month, take a moment to encourage the women around you—whether they are mothers, grandmothers, sisters, teachers, mentors, or friends. Speak life into them. Remind them that their work matters, their leadership is needed, and their love reflects the very heart of Christ.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the women of our church family. We are grateful for you, and we celebrate the image of God reflected through your lives.
Grace and peace
Bob
First Press is a monthly publication from the FPC Communications Team. Want to be featured in FIRST PRESS? Deadline to submit content: the 15th of the previous month.
Hank Cherry: Director of Communications
Dorothy Hecimovich: Graphic Designer
Edwin Stephens: Media/AV Manager
Robynn Amy: Media/Production Specialist
Nona Hall: Volunteer Photographer
Questions? Contact: Hank Cherry (210-271-2728/hankc@fpcsat.org)
THURSDAY, MAY 1
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER & PRAYER WALK
Time: 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Location: Meet at Avenue E entrance to FPC
Contact: Jeanie We, 210-488-1939, eva.eckburg@yahoo.com
Description: Please pray for the USA on the National Day of Prayer. You are also invited to a short prayer service then walk to Travis Park for prayers, then on to First Baptist Church for National Day of Prayer at 11:30 AM as we worship and lift our prayers for San Antonio and the nation. If weather is a problem the walking portion will be canceled.
FRIDAY, MAY 2
OFFICES CLOSED FOR FIESTA PARADE
Description: The Church building and offices will be closed for the Battle of the Flowers Parade. KEYS will not meet this Friday. The FPC yellow parking stickers will not work during this time. All proceeds from paid parking will go toward local mission partner, Alamo Heights Young Life.
SATURDAY, MAY 3
FPC CARS & COFFEE FELLOWSHIP
Time: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: FPC Parking Lot
Contact: Rev. Dr. John Kaiser, johnk@fpcsat.org
Description: Bring a friend along with your car, truck, or motorcycle. Coffee provided or bring your own favorite blend. (Cars will need to leave or pay for parade parking by mid-afternoon.)
FPC STUDENT SUNDAY REHEARSAL
Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Ages: Open to all students grades 6-12
Contact: Kyle Bowden, kyleb@fpcsat.org
Description: FPC Students, come practice for the next day’s services.
SUNDAY, MAY 4
STUDENT SUNDAY
Time: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Ages: Open to all students grade 6-12
Contact: Kyle Bowden, kyleb@fpcsat.org
Description: Join us as the FPC Student Ministry leads worship in all four services at FPC! Seniors will present sermons and students will help with the service and greeting/ushering. Rehearsal Saturday morning.
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Westminster Hall
Contact: Cody Heffron, codyheffron@yahoo.com
Description: Men of all ages come together for food, fellowship, and a message from our guest speaker. Info & registration at bit.ly/fpcmen-dinner.
TUESDAY, MAY 6
SERVE WITH YOUNGLIVES CELEBRATION
Time: 3:00 PM
Location: FPC Nutrition Center
Contact: Lindsay Selli, lindsays@fpcsat.org
Description: Celebrate Mother's Day with YoungLives, a mission partner supporting adolescent mothers. Volunteer: childcare at 3 PM or join the party later. Donate: desserts for the meal or 5x7 frames for gifts.
FRIDAY, MAY 9
Time: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Location: Oblate School of Theology
Contact: Carrie Everson, 210-563-4872 carrie.everson@gmail.com
Description: Meet in the bookstore parking lot at 5712 Blanco Road. Cost: $20. Bring a sack lunch. RSVP to Carrie Everson.
SUNDAY, MAY 11
Time: 12:30 PM
Location: Make Ready Market
Contact: Chris Roper, christopherdavidroper@yahoo.com
Description: Join us after worship every 2nd Sunday at Make Ready Market! It’s the perfect place to eat, relax, and meet new friends in a laid-back setting.
TUESDAY, MAY 13
Time: 1:30 PM
Location: Westminster Hall
Description: Enjoy coffee, community, and lively discussions led by insightful leaders. Our last meeting of the '24-'25 year is May 13 in Westminster Hall featuring "Replenish Our Hills," with author Brent Evans and photographer John M. Freud. All are welcome! We will take a break in the Summer and resume in September.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14
Time: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Location: Home of Deborah Rogers, 403 Tomahawk Trail, 78232
Contact: Mary Alexander, 210-859-7780, jalexander1948@att.net
Description: Join us in celebrating a wonderful year of fellowship and service. Enjoy refreshments and honor our past Presidents. Voluntary donations will support the FPC Children’s Center and the San Antonio Christian Dental Clinic. Donations can be made at the table in Mauzé Lobby on Sundays, May 4 & 11 or at the event. RSVP at bit.ly/fpcsa-maycoffee
FRIDAY, MAY 16
MIDDLE SCHOOL 7-11 NIGHT AT FPC
Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: FPC
Contact: Savannah Schatte, savannahs@fpcsat.org Kyle Bowden, kyleb@fpcsat.org
Description: Rising 5th graders - 8th graders invited! Free food, fun, & games all night! Invite your friends!
SUNDAY, MAY 18
5TH GRADE GRADUATION
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Assembly Room
Contact: Rebecca Sweet, rebeccas@fpcsat.org
Description: Join us in a special morning dedicated to celebrating our graduating 5th grade students! Along with their families, all 5th graders are invited to enjoy a morning of festivities as we honor their achievements.
FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: San Antonio Garden Center 3310 N New Braunfels Ave, 78209
Contact: Midea Leija, mideam@fpcsat.org
Description: Join us for a magical evening at the FPC Children's Center 8th Annual Spring Fling. Enjoy a delightful dinner, exciting auctions, and charming company—all while supporting affordable childcare and empowering educators. Tickets are $65 per person or $500 for a table of eight. Register at bit.ly/fpcc-spring-fling and be a part of our unforgettable fairytale story!
MONDAY, MAY 26
OFFICES CLOSED FOR MEMORIAL DAY
MONDAY, JUNE 16 - FRIDAY, JUNE 20
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Location: FPC
Time: 9:00 AM- 12:00 PM
Contact: Rebecca Sweet, rebeccas@fpcsat.org
Description: Kids ages 4 years - 5th grade completed, embark on the ultimate Alaskan adventure at True North VBS! Kids will explore majestic mountains, glistening glaciers, and racing rivers while learning about Jesus, their true north and unshakeable friend. Register your child ($20) and sign up to volunteer online at bit.ly/ fpcsat-VBS.
JUNE 26 - JULY 7
PRAY FOR OUR OAXACA MISSION TRIP
Contact: Ellen Meadows, e.meadows@att.net Mike Meadows, m_j_meadows@yahoo.com
Description: The team will build relationships with Amory y Proclamacion Presbyterian Church and serve together with them in evangelism and community development projects in Oaxaca, Mexico.
JULY 19-26
PRAY FOR OUR HIGH SCHOOL MISSION TRIP TO MEXICO
Contact: Kyle Bowden, kyleb@fpcsat.org
Description: Our high school students will serve with The Yucatan Peninsula Mission (YPM) in Quintana Roo in Leona Vicario, Mexico.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 10
BACK TO SCHOOL PRAYER AT THE FLAGPOLE
Location: Your Local School Campus Flagpole
Time: 5:00 PM
Contact: Pamela Young, pyoung141@gmail.com
Description: You are encouraged to join us at schools all around our city to pray for students, teachers and staff. Mark your calendar and participate in this special event, at your local neighborhood school or wherever you may be. You may gather at the flagpole at your child’s school or any school you choose. Bring family, friends, and join us in covering our schools in prayer .
SUNDAY, AUGUST 17
KICKOFF SUNDAY
Location: FPC Campus
Time: 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Description: Save the date for our yearly celebration of kicking off the fall semester at FPC.
WEDNESDAYS, SEPT. 3 - NOV. 12
ALPHA CLASS
Location: FPC Student Center
Time: 6:00 PM- 8:00 PM
Contact: Elizabeth Crites, 713-822-0222 crcrites@aol.com
Description: Alpha is a safe place to talk openly about life’s big questions, connect with others, and talk about God. Alpha is for everyone regardless of background or beliefs. Nonbelievers, believers without a church, new believers, and mature believers will benefit from this course. Each week, we’ll have a meal, watch a video, and talk in small groups. The videos share what Christians believe and let people share their own views without any wrong answers or judgment. Alpha is a chance to invite someone to learn about Christianity in a friendly, nonthreatening way.
Alpha is a unique opportunity where life's big questions meet open, meaningful discussions about God. We invite our congregation members to think about someone in your life—a friend, family member, or colleague—who would benefit from exploring faith in a welcoming, nonthreatening environment.
By inviting someone to Alpha, you take a vital step as a disciple-maker, guiding others to explore Christianity and their next steps in faith. We encourage you to prayerfully consider who God is calling you to invite to this transformative experience.
Join us in this mission of connection, growth, and discovery. Your invitation could make a lasting difference in someone's life. Use the prayer card on the next page and look for invite cards closer to the start of Alpha classes.
1. Write down the names of at least three people you would like to invite to explore faith and discover Jesus.
2. Commit to praying for them regularly over the next several months with expectancy for how God might use you!
3. Invite them to Alpha. We'll have invite cards for you to use.
All ages welcome, shuttle available for those needing assistance between locations.
Suggested items to bring: water bottle, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, good walking shoes.
FOR MORE INFO CONTACT:
Jeanie: jeaniewehmeyer@hotmail.com
Kim: (210) 771-4214 kimdcsmith@yahoo.com
Jeannie: jdullnig@att.net
If raining, FPC Prayer Walk will be canceled
10:00 AM: Kick-off with prayers at First Presbyterian Church (FPC, 404 N. Alamo, 78205) in the Ave E Entrance Walk to First Baptist Church (FBC) at 515 McCullough Ave, 78215 11:30 AM: Worship & Praise at FBC 12:00 PM: National Day of Prayer observance with Mayor's proclamation
We had such a fantastic time at Mo Ranch for our Confirmation Retreat! With perfect weather on Saturday for outdoor games, we enjoyed rich fellowship under the sun. Throughout the weekend, our dedicated Confirmation teachers—Jobe and Ashley Jackson, along with Mike and Ellen Meadows—led workshops where students explored their spiritual gifts and deepened their statements of faith, which they confidently shared before the Session last month.
One of the most special moments of the weekend came Saturday afternoon when two of our students were baptized in the Guadalupe River. Their families, Pastor Bob, our teachers, and the entire Confirmation class gathered to celebrate, underscoring the supportive community that is central to our strategic vision of fostering discipleship and transformation.
Saturday night wrapped up with a lively game of bunco that turned into an impromptu karaoke party, topped off with ice cream floats! The weekend was full of laughter, connection, and joyful reminders of how we grow together in faith. This is truly a special group of intentional, joy-filled students, and we were excited to celebrate them on Confirmation Sunday!
- Savannah Schatte, Associate Director of Middle School &
Their Families
We have just concluded another incredible year of Confirmation! We're so thankful for our dedicated volunteers Jobe and Ashley Jackson, as well as Mike and Ellen Meadows, for faithfully guiding our youth. Confirmation provides an opportunity for our young people to deepen their faith and make personal commitments to follow Christ, aligning with our strategic plan's emphasis on personal spiritual growth and discipleship.
Through engaging Sunday morning classes, our confirmands explored Christian teachings, learned about our denomination's history and traditions, and discovered how to live out their faith daily. During retreats, students learned about spiritual gifts, prayer, and service to God’s kingdom. At the end
of the year, each student reflected on their learnings and experiences of God, crafting a personal statement of faith shared with the session.
We are thrilled to welcome these new covenant partners to our congregation. Though Confirmation has concluded, it marks the beginning of their journey with the Lord. Our church family has the important role of supporting and encouraging these young members as they grow in faith. We ask for your prayers and support as they embark on this path, celebrating God’s ongoing work in their lives and our community.
Blessings,
- Kyle Bowden, Director of Youth & Their Families
Scan the QR Code for the FPC Holy Week Recap Video on Instagram.
Mary Altmeyer
Rebecca Andujar
Jenny and Vince Andermatt
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Leah Butler
• June Eubank
• Will, Jess, Violet, & Ward Jette
• The Koehler Andermatt Family
Michele and Jonathan Barker
Lynnda and Field Barnes
• FPC Pastors and Staff
• Our Pathways Group
• Our Children and Parents
• Bevyn and Barrett Brimer
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
Virginia Beeler
Mary and Mike Benedum
Pat and Ken Brodeen
Laura Brusenhan
Jane Buchek
Mills and Tres Buchek
Alethea and Bruce Bugg
Mrs. George V. Burkholder
The Case Family
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Elaine Dunlap
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Pastors and Staff
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• The Blessing of Our Family
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• The Fuller Family and Our Pastors
• Rev. Bob Fuller’s Servant Leadership
Circle 1/12
Pam and Roddy Clack
• Suzanne Thomas and Grace Labatt
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
Connections Committee
Kelly and Jim Daniell
Ann and Bill Dennis
Gayle and Walter Embrey
Suzie and Kirk Feldmann
Karin Gabrielson
Joella Gordon
Christy and Shawn Gulley
• Sheila Figueroa
• Our Grandson, James Kipper Dakil
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Linda and Richard Delano
• Mary and Mike Benedum
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
Carolyn and Mark Johnson
Pat and Buddy Johnson
Paula and Clyde Johnson
KEYS Group
Pat and Ken Krueger
Barbara and Alfred Macdaniel
Joyce and Jess Mayfield
The Meadows Family
Jo Lynne Meador and Family
Kay Minter
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Joe Moore
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Morgan Fuller
• Bob Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Judith McNeel, Special Friend
• John Kaiser and Family
• Bob Fuller and Family
Diana Morehouse
Next Level Sunday School Class
Julie Norton-Keidel
The Page Family
Laura and Clay Page
Her PBS Small Group
Emily Peeples
Emily and David Peeples
Blair Perry
Janet and John Pritchett
Lellen’s PBS Group
Harriett Raney
Nancy Rice
Linda and Mark Rittenhouse
Linda Ruhmann
The Gordon Smith Family
Martha and Gordon Smith
Martha Smith
Marie and Joe Soules
• My Grandchildren
• Jonathan King
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob Fuller
• Our Senior, Josie
• Emily Peeples
• My PBS Group
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Paige, Peyton, and Ryan
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Sheila Figueroa
• Rev. Dr. Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob Collins
• Helen and Graham Smith
• Leah Butler
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
Barbara Anne Stephens
Joan and Cary Stratton
Lynn and Jim Thompson
Kathy Timberlake
Carolyn Walthall
Dr. & Mrs. Walter Walthall, IV
Ginny and David Way
Jeanie Wehmeyer
Carol and Craig White
Carol White
• My Pastor’s Bible Study Group
• Our Sons, Daughters In-Law, & Grandchildren
• Tom Benke, Faithful Leader of the Bridges Class
• Our Pastoral Staff
• Tom Dooling and the Choir
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller & Pastors
• My Grandchildren
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Paige White
• Martha Smith
• Alethea Bugg, Chairman, Mission Road Ministries
Joan and Gates Whiteley
Mary and Steve Wilde
Sidney Wilkins
Lou Womack
• Our 50th Wedding Anniversary
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Our Church Staff
• My Children and Grandchildren
by:
Barbara Wood • Bob and Morgan Fuller
WOC Board, Programs & Circles
Jessica and Bill Young
• WOC President, Nancy Scheifele
• Bob and Morgan Fuller
• Wendy and Eugene Garcia
The Zbinden Children • Kip Zbinden
Jenny and Vince Andermatt
Michele and Jonathan Barker
His Family
Lynnda and Field Barnes
His Family
Debby & J.D. Bowen
Laura Brusenhan
• Victoria and Alvin Koehler
• Reverend and Mrs. J. Kelly
Neal
• Our Grandparents
• Steve Barker
• Our Parents
• Don Beeler
• Dr. & Mrs. Richard G. Ryan
• Harry H. Brusenhan
• My Parents, Estella & Charles Moore
Jane Buchek
Buchek Family
Alethea and Bruce Bugg
• John Buchek
• John Buchek
• Norma and Jim Bugg
• Frances and Tommy Swann
Mrs. George V. Burkholder
Cindi and Don Carr
The Case Family
Caroline Clanton
Kay and Pat Cowles
Kelly and Jim Daniell
Marilyn Etheredge
Ellen E. Frazier
Joy Fuhrmann
The Fuhrmann Family
Charlotte Hains Gates
Joella Gordon
• George V. Burkholder, MD
• Dr. and Mrs. Theodore M. Burkholder
• Mr. and Mrs. Richard B. Schneider
• Mrs. Margaret Wetzel
• “Bear” Jarrett Carr
• George D. Case, M.D.
• My Parents, Mary and John Clanton
• Lucile and Alvin Cowles
• Joan and Bob Jackson
• Will Etheredge
• Will Etheredge, My Dear Husband
• My Parents
• My Husband, Donald
• Triple Fuhrmann
• Triple Fuhrmann
• Elizabeth Pappas
• George Gates
• John R. Gordon
• John David Gordon
• Bernice & Ferdinand Ries
Janet and Boxy Hornberger
Nancy Nowlin Kerr
• Robert Matias Hornberger
• My Husband, Charles J. Kerr “Jerry”
Suzanne and Jerry Letch
Margaret and Jack Maguire, Jr.
Joyce and Jess Mayfield
Milt McFarland
The Meadows Family
• Will Etheredge
• Sarah Stephens
• Mr. and Mrs. Keith Langford
• Kathryn W. Letch
• Gerald C. Letch, Sr.
• Ruth and Bryant Collins
• Pat and Jack Maguire, Sr.
• Our Parents
• Dr. Charlie Robinson
• Luke Warrick
• Abigail Walker
• Frances and Joe Warrick
His loving family
Andrew, Ellen, Ali & AJ Nicholas
Pat O’Neill
The Page Family
Kitty and Scott Palmer
Emily and David Peeples
Dolores Perrine
Nancy Rice
Linda and Mark Rittenhouse
Linda Ruhmann
The Gordon Smith Family
Barbara Anne & Ken Stephens
• Ashby and Nancy Rice, My Parents
• Dr. and Mrs. Norman H. Jacob, Jr.
• Bill Ruhmann
• Brad Ruhmann
• Betty Collins
• Shelly and Marshall Harrell
• Mark Butler
• Sarah Jean Stephens, Precious Granddaughter
• Linda Stevens, Faithful Follower of Jesus
• Mark Butler, Husband of Leah
Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Peterson
Harriett Raney
• Larry L. Minter
• Walter Walthall, III
• Dr. and Mrs. Walter Walthall
• Sally Cribbs
• Tony and Ciara Samsel
• John Buchek, Kathleen and Jim Page
• Andrew Palmer
• Our Parents
• Robert Perrine, My Husband
• Michael DeFilippo, My Sonin-Law
• Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Hines
• Mr. Warner Hines
• Doug Raney
Jane Ann Temple
Kathy Timberlake
Carolyn Walthall
Jane, Robert and Liam Warren
Jakey and Martin Weilbacher
Carol and Craig White
Mary and Steve Wilde
Sidney Wilkins
Amanda and Jim Williams
• Will Etheredge, Husband of Marilyn
• Devereaux Temple
• Patricia & Martin Allday
• Walter Walthall, III
• Spence Warren
• Bryan Warren
• Hale Warren
• Ruth and Emil Weilbacher
• Bobby and Bucko Price
• Shirley and Robert Kline
• Lue White
• George Gates
• Our Parents
• My Husband, Kaye Wilkins
• Janie and Jack Williams, II
• Dr. and Mrs. Norman H. Jacob, Jr.
Given by: In Memory of:
Willie Willming and Family • Ed Willming
Lou Womack • Helen Williamson
• Mr. and Mrs. Clark Munroe
• Mr. and Mrs. Henry Edward Stumberg, Sr.
• Mr. Edward Stumberg, III
• Mr. Henry Edward Stumberg, Jr.
Given by: In Memory of:
Edwyna Yarbrough and Family • Dr. Leroy Yarbrough
The Zbinden Children • Louis Zbinden
cts donations at t FPC ministry ntributions will Center and the l Clinic
en’s Center has d a Christian d 6 weeks to 5 ough dedicated achings. This d the center as
The Sa provides and hom and Bex professi in the re
Donations can be made beginning April 27 on Sunday mornings or at the May Coffee on May 14. Contributions in cash or checks payable to FPC with "May Coffee" in the memo are appreciated
Women of the Church Circles meet from September through May and take a break each Summer.
Circle 1/12 Suzanne Thomas, (210-846-3240)
3rd Monday, May 19, 11:30 AM, Geneva Room (lunch optional)
Contact the Circle Chair to reserve a meal at least 4 days in advance.
Circle 3 EVENING CIRCLE
2nd Tuesday, May 13, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Home of Wendy Garcia wendydmgarcia@gmail.com
Circle 5 SHAWL MINISTRY
Kay Weber, (210-288-5290)
Mary Fruge-Medford, (210-823-7054)
3rd Wednesday, May 21, 1:00 PM, Room 228
Circle 6 Nancy Kerr, (830-535-4019)
3rd Tuesday, May 20, 1:30 PM, McCullough Room
Circle 7 Mary Ellen Mauzé, (210-844-5549)
Meredith Park, (210-373-8180)
3rd Tuesday, May 20, 11:30 AM, 3106 Iron Stone Ln. (Puckett)
Lunch Provided
Hostesses: Nancy Puckett, Mary Lou Casey, Janet Prichett, Jessica Young
Circle 8 CIRCLE FOR MOTHERS OF YOUNG CHILDREN
Susan DeKoch, Coordinator (210-508-7127, may text)
TBD - Contact Susan DeKoch
Circle 9 Grace Clouse, (734-718-7057)
Janice Wilson, (210-260-4157)
3rd Tuesday, May 20, 11:00 AM Luncheon, Breakfast Room
Circle 11 Jean Swanson, (210-777-8966)
4th Monday, May 19, 11:30 AM, Home of Carolyn Walthall 40 Silverhorn Dr., 78216
Circle 13 LITERATURE CIRCLE
Grace Clouse, (734-718-7057)
2nd Tuesday, May 13, 1:00 PM, McCullough Room
Book Review: "Replenishing Our Hills, Protecting Lands in the Heart of the Hill Country"
Reviewers: Author Brent Evans and Photographer John M. Freud
Circle 14
Karen Carawan, (210-213-4589)
3rd Monday, May 19 12:00 PM, St. Andrews Room (lunch optional)
Contact the Circle Chair to reserve a meal at least 4 days in advance.
Circle 18 CIRCLE OF CONCERN
Shelley Bass, (210-861-6996)
Memorial reception volunteers
Circle 20 CIRCLE OF SERVICE
Muffin Camp, (210-789-1808)
Mary Anne Smith, (817-933-9124)
Volunteers make/take meals and snacks when needed
As the school year comes to a close, so does the current season of gatherings for the Women of the Church. May marks the final month of meetings and events until the fall, allowing us time to reflect on a wonderful year of fellowship and spiritual growth.
This year, our Circles have flourished under the leadership of dedicated Circle Chairs and Moderators, who have guided us in exploring sermon scripture passages through careful study. If you're considering joining a Circle, we encourage you to visit several to find your best fit, as each has its own unique character.
Pat Brodeen, who has admirably served as Vice President for Circles, coordinated smoothly with Circle Chairs to manage schedules and communication. Meanwhile, Jane Buchek, as our Moderator Chair, skillfully handled the distribution of study materials, enhancing our exploration of God's Word. We are deeply grateful for their leadership and contributions, and we extend a warm welcome to Lynn Thompson and Janet Pritchett, who will take on these roles next year, promising continued growth and community as part of our strategic emphasis on spiritual development and leadership.
Our heartfelt thanks go to all the Circle leaders for their wisdom, dedication, and the love they've shared in teaching and building up our community:
Suzanne Thomas, Lynn Thompson, Grace Labatt, Wendy Garcia, Kay Weber, Mary Fruge-Medford, Nancy Kerr, Jane Buchek, June Eubank, Patsy Johnson, Barbara Winship-MacDaniel, Mary Ellen Mauze, Meredith Park, Susan DeKoch, Grace Clouse, Janice Wilson, Ann Smith, Jean Swanson, Karen
Carawan, Suzie Simpson, Shelley Bass, Muffin Camp, and Mary Anne Smith.
In April, our Ladies Night Out was a joyful evening of fellowship at the home of Sharon and Stuart Seal, with a Fiesta theme—a fitting expression of joyful community building. Over 80 women gathered for laughter and connection, thanks to Jill Peavy and her team of Ellen Meadows and Sabrina Rios.
We look forward to seeing you at the May Coffee on May 14th at Deborah Rogers’ home, 403 Tomahawk Trail, 78232. This gathering is a chance to celebrate our past presidents and support the FPC Children’s Center Teacher Scholarship Fund and the Christian Dental Clinic. Please feel free to bring a friend; all women of First Presbyterian Church are welcome.
Finally, join us for the installation of the Women of the Church officers and committee chairs for 20252026 under President Lellen Lane, on Sunday, May 18th, at the 9:30 AM Traditional Service. Let us thank our incoming officers for answering the call to serve and lead, embodying our church's vision of nurturing spiritual leadership and community transformation.
We look forward to another year in the rich life of the Women of the Church, as we continue to grow together in faith and community at First Presbyterian.
Nancy Scheifele President,
Women of the Church bbnn.scheifele@gmail.com
I extend a heartfelt thank you to our leadership team for stepping in during my absence to attend three memorial services for our beloved Covenant Partners in late March and early April. It was a meaningful time, and I am so grateful for the support. Miles Pike was well-received during his time with us, providing fresh perspectives as we explored the impactful work of Comfort Café through the stories of those it serves. We hope to return soon and experience their welcoming hospitality once again.
As always, worshiping together throughout Holy Week was uplifting, and we are continually thankful for our church leadership. With Fiesta arriving later this year, we savored every moment, including visits from King Antonio and his court and the captivating Mariachi Las Alteñas.
As we wrap up our regular weekly meetings for the year, we have exciting plans ahead with our Birthday Lunches. Mark your calendars for June 20 at Chris Madrid’s, July 18 at Bobbies, and August 15 at Milano’s.
In May, we have a special treat for our Birthday Lunch—a trip to College Station to tour the Bush Presidential Museum. Join us for this adventure, leaving at 9:30 AM with a stop at Buc-ees, followed by lunch, a museum tour, and dinner in Bastrop on the way home. We’ll return to FPC by 8:30 PM. The cost is $65, but if your birthday is in May, celebrate with us at the reduced price of $50.
We look forward to continuing our journey together, fostering fellowship and community aligned with our strategic vision of nurturing connections and building transformative relationships.
Rev. Dr. Joe Moore
Assistant Pastor
for Older Adults and Congregational Care
All on site KEYS lunches begin with our speaker at 11:00 AM, followed by lunch at Noon. On-campus lunch and off-site birthday lunches cost $15. Make your reservations by signing up at the front desk, calling into the church office, emailing keys@fpcsat.org, or signing up in the regular KEYS emails.
• May 2 – No KEYS Battle of Flowers Parade
• May 9 – Dr Jonathan King from The Zbinden Center
• May 16 – Birthday Trip to George Bush Presidential Library
• May 23 – US Marshall Susan Pamerleau, Memorial Day
• May 25 – Beautiful: The Carol King Musical Showtime 3pm Tickets $25
• May 30 – Burger and a Movie at FPC
KEYS Games
Mahjong and Bridge players are meeting on the 2nd & 4th Fridays immediately after lunch, from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM. You don’t have to be a seasoned player, and if you have a game you would like to play, let us know and we will make room for you!
Friday Fitness
Friday Fitness will continue via Zoom. Join Jacqueline Crow at 9:30 AM. Jacqi has been a champion for us and everyone loves the time with her. If you want to be included on the email notifications, send your email address to joem@ fpcsat.org. You will be sent a link to join the Zoom Meeting.
Blessings and love in Christ, Sandy Sturch
Dear Family in Christ, First Cup is designed to assist you in the habit of daily Bible reading and prayer. The name is to remind you that as you reach for your first cup of morning coffee or tea, reach also for your Bible and prayer list. The prayers at the beginning of each week are taken from hymns, sometimes found in obscure hymnals in my library. They are intended to be read as your beginning prayer, to focus your mind on the daily readings that follow. May this spiritual discipline strengthen you as you face each day.
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.— Psalm 143:8
1 Isaiah 53; John 1:24-34; Matt. 28:16-20; Acts 8:26-40; Psalm 32
2 Acts 9:1-31; Gal. 1:11-21; 2 Tim. 2:15; 2 Cor. 5:17
3 Acts 9:32-43; John 1:43-51; 5:19-27; 14:8-14; 1 Cor. 12:1-11
I cannot tell why He, whom angels worship, should set His love upon the sons of men. Or why, as Shepherd, He should seek the wanderers to bring them back. I know not how or when. I cannot tell how He will win the nations, how He will claim His earthly heritage, how satisfy the needs and aspirations of East and West, of sinner and sage. But this I know, He heals the broken-hearted, stays our sins and calms our lurking fear, and lifts the burdens from the heavy laden. For yet, the Savior, the Savior of the world is here! (William Young Fullerton-1857-1932)
4 Acts 10:1-11:18; Rom. 14:1-4; Col. 3:12-14
5 Acts 11:19-30; Rom. 15:14-33; 1 Pet. 5:1-4; 2 Cor. 8:1-7
6 Heb. 1:14; Gen. 19:1-26; 32:1-2; Psalm 91:9-12; Acts 12:1-19a
7 Acts 12:19b-24; 1 Sam. 25:1-39a; Job 34; Psalm 2
8 Acts 12:25-13:52; 1 Cor. 1:18-31; 2 Cor. 2:14-17
9 Acts 14; Matt. 10:5-42; Acts 9:15-16
10 Acts 15:1-35; Rom. 12:18; 1 Cor. 10:31-11:1
Come into my heart, O Lord Jesus, come into my heart I pray. My soul is so troubled and weary, come into my heart today. Come into my heart, O Lord Jesus, I need Thee through life’s dreary way. The burden of sin is so heavy, come into my heart to stay. Come into my heart, O Lord Jesus. Now cleanse and illumine my soul; fill me with Thy wonderful Spirit, come in and take full control. ( The Baptist Hymnal, 2008, #418)
11 Acts 15:36-16:5; Rom. 12:16; 1 Pet. 3:8; Col. 3:12-17; Eph. 4:1-3
12 Acts 16:6-15; Gal. 3:26-29; Rev. 3:20; Rom. 1:14-17
13 Acts 16:16-40; Mark 1:21-28; Psalm 42:8-11; 32:7; 1 Pet. 2:19-25
14 Acts 17:1-15; Deut. 29:29; 2 Tim. 2:15; 3:16-17
15 Acts 17:16-34; 2 Kings 17:1-15; Isaiah 42:8; 1 John 5:19-21
16 Acts 18; Titus 3:1-11; Rom. 12:9-21
17 Acts 19: Rom. 1:18-32; Eph. 2
“Almost persuaded” now to believe: “Almost persuaded” Christ to receive. Seems now some soul to say, “Go, Spirit, go Thy way. Some more convenient day on Thee I’ll call. “Almost persuaded” come, come today. “Almost persuaded” turn not away. Jesus invites you here; Angels are lingering near; Prayers rise from hearts so dear. O wanderer, come! “Almost persuaded”, harvest is past! “Almost persuaded” doom comes at last! “Almost” cannot avail; “Almost” is but to fail! Sad, sad that bitter wail, “Almost,” but lost! (Worship in Song, #233)
18 Acts 20: Eph. 6:10-20; Rom. 15:13; 2 Pet. 2:1-10; Rev. 2
19 Acts 21:1-26; Jer. 13:1-11; John 15:18-16:4; Phil. 1:21-30
20 Acts 21:27-22:29; Psalm 109; 2 Tim. 2:8-13
21 Acts 25:23-26:32; Psalm 7; Psalm 119:41-48
22 Acts 27-28:10; Psalm 69
23 Acts 28:11-31; 2 Cor. 11:21b-12:10; Rom. 5:1-5; 2 Tim. 1:8-2:13
24 Acts 9:10-16; Gal. 1; 1 Cor. 3:11; 15:1-19; Rom. 1:16-17
Marvelous grace of our loving Lord, grace that exceeds our sins and our guilt; Yonder on Calvary’s mount outpoured, there where the blood of the Lamb was spilt. Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace, freely bestowed on all who believe: You who are longing to see His face, will you this moment His grace receive? Grace, grace, God’s grace, Grace that will pardon and cleanse within; Grace, grace, God’s grace, Grace that is greater than all our sin. (Baptist Hymnal, #200)
25 Gal. 2; Acts 9:16; Phil. 3:1-16
26 Gal. 3:1-14; Rom. 4; John 8:31-59
27 Gen. 12:1-3; Gal. 3:15-4:7; Eph. 1:3-14
28 Gen. 16:1-4; 17:1-27; Gal. 4:8-31
29 Gal. 5; Rom. 12:1-2; 1 John 2:15-17
30 Gal. 6; Rom. 6:19-23; 8:1-17
31 Eph. 1:1-14; 1 Pet. 1
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. (Romans 8:26)
www.fpcsanantonio.org