First Press April 2021 Issue

APRIL 2021

first press

Local Missions Returning Dignity to Tent City.

[See article page 9]

WOC Spring Luncheon a great time of fellowship & learning.

[See WOC article pages 14 - 16]

Remembering & honoring loved ones with Easter Lilies.

[See pages 6-8]

RESET:

Connection & God's Word in the midst of COVID Challenges [See article pages 10-12]

PASTOR’S ARTICLE

The Big Announcement

Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller Senior Pastor

O

f the four gospels, Mark’s version of the Easter story is the shortest and most simple. It has the fewest details and seems almost stingy in what it tells us about that Resurrection morning. Mark doesn’t care about the soldiers or the disciples running to the tomb. There is no explanation of how the stone was rolled away and no description of the grave clothes.

It’s not that those details are unimportant; but Mark was frugal because he wanted his readers to focus on the big announcement. The big announcement was that Jesus is Alive.

To the women who came to the tomb that morning, it was the most incredible, unbelievable news that they could hear.

Even though it was incredible, unbelievable news, the bodily resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth is a credible, historical fact. It really happened. The evidence is solid. The tomb was empty, and nobody could produce the body. There were hundreds of witnesses (from two to 500 at a time) who saw the risen Christ, and their testimony is acknowledged by Christian and non-Christian alike. The disciples were willing to stake their lives on it and were so sure that the risen FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE

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Christ was no hoax, that they tirelessly proclaimed his rising in face of ridicule, persecution, and even death.

The whole Christian faith rests on this fact. If Jesus is still dead, then Christianity is dead. Paul himself declared as much in 1 Corinthians 15:17: “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins.” Plainly stated, without the resurrection, the few billion people today who worship Jesus as God are gullible; their hope for a resurrection life after this life is the hope of silly fools who trust in a dead man to give them life. Apart from the resurrection of Jesus Christ, there is no savior, no salvation, no forgiveness of sin, and no hope of resurrected eternal life.

Apart from the resurrection, Jesus is reduced to yet another good but dead man and therefore is of no considerable help to us in this life or at its end, and we of all people are most to be pitied for putting our faith in a hoax.

But the fact is that He has risen. He is alive. And to quote American financier and statesman Bernard Baruch, “Everyone is entitled to his own opinion, but not to his own facts.” The fact is that Jesus Christ rose from the dead. No one can remain neutral regarding His resurrection. The claim is too staggering, the event is too

contents earthshaking, the implications are too significant, and the matter is too serious. We must each either receive or reject it as truth, and to remain indifferent or undecided is to reject it.

I cannot even begin to imagine what the women were feeling at that moment: a mix of personal joy and fractured reality. But I can imagine that when they heard that He was alive, everything they thought or believed about Jesus changed.

For weeks Jesus had been telling them that “the Son of Man will be rejected, tortured, betrayed, and killed. But on the third day I will rise from the dead.” God had a plan for the redemption of His people and for the world, and on Easter Sunday He demonstrated that he had both the love and power to fulfill that plan. God promised and God delivered. It was one thing to walk on water, feed thousands of people, heal the lame, cast out demons and bring other people back to life, but rising from the dead demonstrated a whole new level of sovereignty. He said he would and he did. And if He could do that, then the Roman Centurion standing at the foot of the cross was right: “truly this man was the Son of God.” Christ is Risen!

GRACE AND PEACE, - REV. DR. BOB FULLER

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Save the Date: Spring Ladies' Night Out-side, DiscoverFirst! Class, Youth Sunday Night Fellowship, College Scholarships for 20212022, RESET Gathering, Church Offices Closure, Vacation Bible School, Love Reboot Marriage Weekend, Confirmation Sunday, KRL Support, Prayer Ministry Calendar, Holy Week

6

Loving One Another: Easter Lily Memorials and Honorariums

9

Loving the City: Beyond Blankets and Burritos Restoring Dignity in Tent City

10 13

Loving Christ & Loving One Another: RESET Providing Young Adults with Connection and God's Word During COVID Challenges Loving the World: Pastor Delfils Brings Message of Inspiration to FPC from Haiti

14

Loving One Another: WOC & Circle Schedule

17

Loving One Another: KEYS

18

Loving Christ: First Cup Readings

19

Loving Christ: First Cup Prayer List

20

Loving One Another: Children's Easter Program First Press is published monthly by the First Presbyterian Church San Antonio Communications Team. Deadline to submit content: the 15th of the previous month.

Hank Cherry: Director of Communications Dorothy Hecimovich: Graphic Designer Ross Brown: Media Coordinator Questions? Contact: Hank Cherry (210-271-2728/hankc@fpcsat.org)

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SAVE THE DATE

Spring Ladies Night Out-side

Tuesday | April 13 | 6:30 PM Multi-site host homes fpcsanantonio.org/lno Safe and small multi-site outdoor gathering for women. Meeting in many places, but all joining together to enjoy food, wine, and friends.

Register through April 3 online at fpcsanantonio.org/lno or at the table outside Ave. E on Sundays.

(Registration required for seating purposes – you may request to sit with a specific person.) Please plan to bring your own meal, drink, and mask for COVID safety. Contact Nancy Scheifele at 210-315-1618 or bbnn.scheifele@gmail.com with any questions.

DiscoverFirst!

Sunday | April 18 12:15 - 4:00 PM Register at fpcsanantonio.org/ discoverfirst

College Scholarships Available for 2021-2022

Love Reboot

Submission Deadline April 10, 2021 Are you headed to or continuing college for the 2021-2022 school year?

A native of Texas? In need of financial assistance? Then you may qualify for a Campbell, Jones, or Holland scholarship. To obtain an application and for more information, check out our website at fpcsanantonio. org/scholarships-2021. You may also contact Lindsay Selli at lindsays@ fpcsat.org or 210-271-2758. The guidelines for eligibility and the required document submission is noted on the Scholarship form.

Friday - Sunday | April 23-25 Embassy Suites Airport 10110 US Hwy 281 N Whether your marriage could just use a good boost or needs a complete do over, Love Reboot is proven to be the most effective tool you can find. Marriage is not easy...get the help and support you need now! The workshop is from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Friday and Saturday and from 1:30 PM - 7:00 PM on Sunday. To register and for more information visit growinglovenetwork.org/love-reboot.

Contact Bobby Mickler 210-284-1496 or Downie Mickler 210-284-1497.

RESET Gathering

Confirmation Sunday

Dates: Mondays 4/26 and 5/24 Time: 7:00-8:15 PM Location: Westminster Hall; Online at fpcsanantonio.org/media Contact: Rev. Mitchell Moore, mitchellm@fpcsat.org

First Pres is a community of people who love Christ, love one another, and love the city. Consider becoming a Covenant Partner and making this your home. Our next DiscoverFirst!

Class is Sunday, April 18, from 12:15 - 4:00 PM, and will be the last class offered until the fall. Contact heatherb@fpcsat.org for more information.

Join other Young Adults & University students for a time of worship, Biblical teaching, fellowship, and prayer. The RESET Gathering is a chance for us to reset our hearts, minds, and lives on knowing Jesus personally, following Jesus wholly, worshipping Jesus corporately, and serving Jesus globally. Please come check it out and visit fpcsanantonio. org/reset for more information and to sign up for a small group. Read the article about RESET on pages 10-12.

Sunday Youth Fellowship

Church Offices Closure

Dates: Sunday, April 11 Times & Locations: TBD Contact: Alex Clary, alexc@fpcsat. org, 210-777-2433 Join the fun on Sunday evenings with other youth for socially distanced outdoor gatherings, and other fun fellowship opportunities on Sundays. Check our Instagram, contact Alex for more information or visit fpcsanantonio.org/youth-events.

Friday, April 23 The church offices will be closed Friday, April 23 and reopen Monday, April 26.

Vacation Bible School

Date: Monday - Friday, June 21-25 Want to volunteer for VBS videos or prep? Please contact Rozlyn Miller at rozlynm@fpcsat.org. Kids' registration coming soon!

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Marriage Weekend

Sunday, April 18, 2021 We are excited to introduce the Confirmation Class of 2021 to the congregation as new Covenant Partners during the Sunday, 9:00 AM Traditional Service.

April Literature Circle

Date: Tuesday, April 13 Time: 1:30 PM Location: Westminster Hall (In person, live) and fpcsanantonio. org/lit-circle (recorded) The FPC Literature Circle will meet Tuesday, April 13, at 1:30 PM in-person in Westminster Hall & taped(fpcsanantonio.org/lit-circle) when Mrs. Ann Smith will review the book, DAUGHTER OF A DAUGHTER OF A QUEEN, by Sarah Bird. Born into bondage in Missouri, Cathy Williams mother told her she was a captive of noble warrior blood meant to escape the enemy. Inspired by a true story, it is a tale about one woman's fight for freedom, respect and independence.

In-person masks are required along with social distancing. You may bring your own personal bottle of drinking water. The taped review is time delayed a few hours.

KRL Spring Support Thank you for your support of The Kingdom Restoration Lab (KRL) at FPC. Help fill the food and clothing pantries with necessities for our under-resourced neighbors in their journey to becoming self-sufficient.

Please donate warmer weather clothes, as we do not have storage for winter clothing.

CURRENT NEEDS: • Men’s and/or Women's underwear (must be new) •

Men's and/or Women's jeans/ casual pants

•

Casual shoes (for both men and women)

•

Reading glasses, wallets, and belts

Additional items can be donated by shopping the Amazon wish list at http://tiny.cc/KRL-support (link is case sensitive), created by our partner, SA Hope Center. All of the items that you purchase are shipped directly to the KRL. If you are interested in volunteering for our KRL ministries, contact Lindsay at lindsays@fpcsat. org.

Purchase WOC Cookbooks Online fpcsanantonio.org/ cookbook The WOC 175th Anniversary Cookbooks are back in stock!

Purchase ($25 each) online at fpcsanantonio.org/cookbook or inperson Sundays, April 11, 18 or 25 at the table outside Ave. E. You may pick up your online Cookbook purchases by bringing your receipt email to the table on Sundays or coordinate with Judy Kruger at 210.857.0122 or judykruger@sbcglobal.net.

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Easter Lilies 2021 Given by: Katharyn and Koehler Andermatt

In Memory of:

Given by:

In Memory of:

Victoria Koehler Doris Wallace

Jane and Bill Burnett

Helen Buescher Dan Davidson

Vince and Jenny Andermatt

Alvin and Victoria Koehler

Kelly and Jim Daniell

Betsy and Wally Baker

Louis Zbinden

Barbara E. Stieren Arthur T. Stieren Barbara Daniell Richard and Cora Correll Wilson

Michele and Johnathan Barker Kay Beth and David Barr Kathy and Albert Biedenharn

Debby and J.D. Bowen Jane Buchek Alethea and Bruce Bugg Ann and Chuck Bunn Mrs. George V. Burkholder

Our grandparents

Susan DeKoch The DeKoch Family

Our parents Isaac Olivares

Jeanne Douglas

Mr. and Mrs. Albert M. Biedenharn, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. William E. Adams

Elaine Dunlap Marilyn and Will Etheredge

Dr. Richard and Elizabeth Ryan John Buchek James Bruce Bugg, Sr. Norma Lee Bugg Thomas R. Swann Mary and Charles Bunn Ralph Lehr Dr. George V. Burkholder Dr. and Mrs. Theodore M. Burkholder Mr. and Mrs. Richard B. Schneider Mrs. Margaret Wetzel

Rev. Richard Ryan Rev. John McCullough John W. McCullough, Jr. Gary Douglas My husband, Walter Capen Dunlap Our parents and brother

Joella Gordon

John R. Gordon

Lilly and Alan Gretzinger

Ralph Lehr

Sallie and Tom Guy

Rev. Dr. Louis H. Zbinden, Jr.

The Guy and Embs Families

Sallie W. Embs Lowell D. Embs

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Charlotte Hains

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Peter Hains

Janet and Boxy Hornberger

Robert Matias Hornberger

Robin Hudnall

My parents and sister

Easter Lilies 2021 Given by: Ashley and Jobe Jackson Kitty and Rich Lange Maurer Family

In Memory of:

Given by:

In Memory of:

Caroline Radcliffe Spencer

Janet and Vick Putman

Blake Williams, Jr. Charlotte Williams

Jerry Kerr Louise Maurer and Louise Shuler Georgiana and Jim Wirgman Ann Fryburger and Grace Duncan

Karen and Ritchie McCulloch

Jim McCulloch Carolynn and Stan Cobbs

Diana Morehouse

Loved ones

Debby Elson Neighbarger

My parents-Lois and Dean Elson

Pat O'Neill and Family

Tony and Clara Samsel for 45 years of service in the Salvation Army

The Page Family

John Buchek

David A. Peeples

Rev. Robert and Elizabeth Bullock

Emily and David Peeples

Carrie Spencer Bob and Sarah Bullock Homer and Ada Peeples

Blair Perry Kari and Hunter Peyton Martha Pigeon and Family

Judy and Coleman Renick Brad Ruhmann

Linda and Mark Rittenhouse

Dr. and Mrs. Norman H. Jacob, Jr.

Cynthia and Charlie Robinson

Brad Ruhmann

Linda and Bill Ruhmann

Brad Ruhmann

Marie and Paul Smith Martha and Gordon Smith Suzanne and John Thomas

Anne Smith Betty Collins Thomas Burns Elaine and R.C. Thomas

Jane, Robert and Liam Warren

Spence Warren Bryan Warren

Jakey and Martin Weilbacher

Bobby and Bucko Price Ruth and Emil Weilbacher

Carol and David West Sidney and Kaye Wilkins Willie Willming and Family Jean Rogers Winchell

Brad Pigeon FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE

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Olive and Bond Davis Margarite and W.G. West Our Parents Rev. Dr. Louis H. Zbinden, Jr. Ed Willming My parents: Napier and Mary Jean Rogers Leroy Yarbrough

Easter Lilies 2021 Given by: Mrs. Jess Womack II

Edwyna Yarbrough and Family

Given by: Michele and Johnathan Barker Kay Beth and David Barr Mary and Mike Benedum Alethea and Bruce Bugg Ann and Chuck Bunn Susan and Dirk DeKoch First Class Myna Gathers

Joella Gordon and Giselle Lilly and Alan Gretzinger

In Memory of:

Given by:

Mr. Jess Womack II Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Stumberg, Sr. Dr. Leroy Yarbrough

Paula and Clyde Johnson III

Our loved ones

Elizabeth Kreager

Lillian and Ned

Judy and Barry Kruger

In Honor of:

Joyce and Jess Mayfield

Our Parents Our FPC Pastors and Staff Our children Our grandchildren Our children and grandchildren Our sons-Jim and Tom Bugg Frances D. Swann Lillian Ann Lehr Our Sunday School Class

Jo Lynne Meador The Christopher Petty Family Cynthia and Charlie Robinson Marie and Paul Smith Martha and Gordon Smith

Our grandchildren

Lynn and Jim Thompson

Ann and Chuck Bunn Hardaway Butane Company who came to my rescue during the big freeze

In Honor of:

Our children, Wesley and Janis Our Loving Family All My Family Anne Pennypacker Karen and Ronald Herrmann Pastors, Staff, Music Department Paul Smith Bob Collins Helen and Graham Smith Shelly and Marshall Harrell Lorraine Ruth Thompson Rachel Lynn Thompson

Kathy Timberlake

My grandchildren: Annabelle, Ladd, Camilla and Evan

Kay and Bill Weber

Our grandsons: Wesley and Dalton

Linda and Richard Delano Mrs. Jess Womack II Janie and Jim Worth FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE

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My Children My Grandchildren

LOVING THE CITY

Beyond Burritos & Blankets

RESTORING DIGNITY in Tent City

T

he growing tent city under I-37 is impossible to miss, with as many as 100 tents and temporary shelters for the homeless. Is the best way to love our neighbors to offer burritos and blankets?

No. Love does the hard work of holistic care to restore dignity. The Church must lead the way towards more comprehensive care for our neighbors.

Tent city robs dignity, as further seen in increases in homicides, substance abuses, mental health problems, and horrific realities for women. A social worker also discovered a six-week-old child in tent city during the coldest weather without anything on his little feet and legs. The Church cannot be content with tent city. We must prayerfully consider what it means to be a blessing to our neighbors.

First Presbyterian Church has been working collaboratively to leverage assets and optimize impact for our neighbors beyond basic necessities. We are working to establish networks for substance abuse recovery, housing, social workers who access benefits, job training and placement, and physical and mental health care.

A wonderful example of collaborative care from Tuesday, March 16: FPC helped host a collaborative outreach to our neighbors - Love Does. We provided food and relationship as well as help, hope, and the opportunity for holistic healing by introducing our neighbors to partners who can truly help. CAM hosted Love Does on their property, and more than ten organizations were present to provide collaborative care for our neighbors.

During our 175-year history, FPC has loved our neighbors through very serious struggles, from the aftermath of wars to casualties of the great depression. Today we can do better than burritos and blankets in blessing our neighbors. We work for a day when each neighbor has “his or her own vine and fig tree,” and the opportunity to live the dignity God has designed for all humanity. God showed up to love us in the person and work of Jesus Christ. This is what Love Does. We must show up to truly love our neighbors, divesting of ourselves for the restoration of their dignity.

REV. A. MITCHELL MOORE

Associate Pastor for Young Adults and Missions FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE

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LOVING CHRIST

RESET

Providing young adults with connection

and God's Word during COVID challenges

CARRIE EVERSON

Director of Young Adults & Young Women

W

hen the pandemic hit a year ago and we were no longer able to meet together in person, our young adults, like most of us, struggled to stay connected to community. When we first had to move our Monday Night Bible Study to Zoom, attendance was solid, and most folks were engaged and interactive, even over their computer screens and phones. Yet as the weeks wore on, Zoom fatigue set in, and it was rough! Fewer people were logging on for Bible Study, and even fewer were turning on their screens and participating in the discussion. I have to admit I could not really blame them. Most of our young adults are in professions where they had to remain on their computers, engaged in online meetings and conversations for most of the day.

Thus, at the end of the day when they finished their work, the last thing they wanted to do was to join another virtual meeting!

Yet in the midst of these difficult circumstances, God was doing something new! One thing that was working and growing was our online small groups, which would meet at the end of our Zoom Bible Study. As the Bible Study closed each week, we divided our FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE 10

LOVING ONE ANOTHER

Many young adults have testified about what a difference their RESET group is making in their lives. There have been a few who had thought of leaving the church due to the isolation and loneliness they experienced during the pandemic but –because of the love of Jesus they experienced through their RESET group and the sense of belonging they felt - they have stayed and committed themselves to this community! young adults into small breakout groups to discuss application of the passage and pray for each other. Even though this was still on a screen, we began to see people connecting and going deeper with one another in ways we had rarely seen before. The consistency of these groups, week after week, enabled the people in them to get to know one another on a deeper level. In addition, the lack of being able to be together physically caused many to hunger for community more than they had before. The result was that even though

the Bible Study was struggling, community was growing!

In response to this, we begin to ask ourselves, and ask the Lord, how we could continue to foster deeper community and connection that results in transformational relationships that build people up in Christ, even when we are “back to normal?” It was from these conversations and concerted prayer that we felt God’s Spirit calling us to re-envision the Young Adult Ministry. From this the RESET Model was born.

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This model entails gathering young adults and university students once a month for a large gathering, in person and virtual, which includes worship, fellowship, and Biblical teaching.

Twice a month they meet in small groups to go deeper in God’s Word, and to spend time together building community through prayer, service, and fellowship. Young adults facilitate the majority of these Bible Studies with their peers, while staff provide them with training, equipping, and encouragement.

Many of these young leaders had never led a Bible Study before, and some doubted that they could do it, but ALL of them have said it was easier than they thought, and they have experienced great joy in leading their peers! These leaders are gaining confidence that God can use them in His service if they are willing and open to what He is calling them to do. And God is using them in powerful ways! Many young adults have testified about what a difference

LOVING CHRIST

they felt - they have stayed and committed themselves to this community!

their RESET group is making in their lives. There have been a few who had thought of leaving the church due to the isolation and loneliness they experienced during the pandemic but – because of the love of Jesus they experienced through their RESET group and the sense of belonging

This model has worked well during the pandemic, since it is safer to meet in small groups.

The larger RESET gatherings have also worked well because we are able to meet in a large space (Westminster Hall) where folks can spread out. These large gatherings are a great first step for new folks, a place where young adults can invite their friends to come and check out our community. Yet even as things are gradually improving and people feel safer coming together, we recognize that this model is not just a response to the pandemic – a creative way to build community in a time

of limitations. This has been, and Lord willing, will continue to be a movement of God in our midst. Young Adults are at a crucial time in their lives where they are figuring out who they are, how God has gifted them, what their career path will be, who and if they will marry, and what they really believe. This structure of RESET groups and gatherings gives them an anchor that can help them navigate the endless questions and decisions they face. Ultimately, what they need is Jesus - and through God’s Word and the gift of community they are encountering Him and learning how to follow Him.

Job & Volunteer Opportunities Sunday Audio/Visual Tech Volunteers Needed

Hiring Assistant Director to Youth & their Families

Welcome Team Needs You!

First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio is accepting applications for an Assistant Director to Youth and their Families. Potential candidates should have a heart for family ministry and a desire to work with a team to see students grow in their walk with Christ.

Resumes can be sent to Alex Clary, alexc@fpcsat.org, and visit the church website at fpcsanantonio. org/jobs for more information.

Do you enjoy audio/video production or tech gadgets? Are you good with computers? We could use your help on Sunday mornings to support those worshiping the Lord, both in-person and online.

Volunteers are welcome for all services. Please contact Ross Brown at rossb@fpcsat.org if you are interested and able to help.

The Welcome Team is in need of Greeters for in-person and online worship services. We also need Ushers to serve in our on-campus Worship Services. Help us extend FPC's greatest hospitality to those God sends through our doors.

Please contact Wendy Garcia at wendyg@fpcsat.org to sign up.

FPC Children's Center Hiring Teachers & Subs The FPC Children's Center is currently hiring one full-time lead teacher, two afternoon teachers, and subsititutes. Contact Midea Marez Leija at 210-271-2788.

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RESET Gathering Dates: Mondays 4/26 and 5/24 Time: 7:00-8:15 PM Location: Westminster Hall; Online at fpcsanantonio.org/media Contact: Rev. Mitchell Moore, mitchellm@fpcsat.org Join other Young Adults and University students for a time of worship, Biblical teaching, fellowship, and prayer. The RESET Gathering is a chance for us to reset our hearts, minds, and lives on knowing Jesus personally, following Jesus wholly, worshipping Jesus corporately, and serving Jesus globally. Please come check it out and visit fpcsanantonio.org/ reset for more information and to sign up for a small group.

LOVING THE WORLD

PASTOR DELFILS Brings Message of Inspiration to FPC from Haiti

work of Adoration Christian Centre as they raise up the next generation of children who are receiving a gospelcentered education to which they would not otherwise have access.

We were grateful to learn of the growing church that is discipling new believers and equipping new leaders to advance the gospel in Haiti.

R

Pastor Delfils and his family at the Alamo

PC Haiti, led by Pastor Octavius Delfils, has been an FPC Global Missions Partner for about five years.

In that time, their country has suffered the hardships of political instability, barriers to education, ongoing and widespread poverty, and the continued aftermath of natural disasters that have shaken the country. In the midst of all of those challenges, Pastor Delfils has remained steadfast in sharing the hope-filled and transformative news of the Gospel in Haiti. He serves as a pastor at church plants in Port-auPrince and La Gonave, leads classes at the Adoration Christian Centre, trains church leaders in Haiti, and is working - in partnership with other Reformed congregations to create a local Presbytery.

I really enjoyed meeting and hearing from Pastor Delfis and his family. They provided a lot of perspective on what life and ministry is like in Haiti. I was inspired by the way that they have faced and overcome challenges, using them to propel their faith in God. – Jake McKenzie

The FPC Family was blessed to spend time with Pastor Delfils and his family this past February. Pastor Delfils shared testimony in worship services, at a Sunday school class, and in a special evening worship opportunity with our Young Adult Community and University Students. Through his visit, our church family was humbled by the faithfulness of the Delfils Family and their firm hope in Christ as they lead faithfully and sacrificially in Haiti. We were joyful to hear about the

It was a privilege getting to witness the work of Jesus through the Delfils’ testimony. They have faced challenges many of us could never fathom and they have responded with an unwavering faith that left me humbled and inspired. – Emily McLoughlin

As our Young Adults and University students were able to hear from Pastor Delfils, they heard testimony that challenged and convicted them to stay grounded in the word, faithful in prayer, and obedient to God’s will for their lives.

For me, meeting Pastor Delfils and his family was a much-needed reminder that the body of Christ transcends all borders. As I heard about the ways God is working in Haiti, I was extremely encouraged but also convicted as I realized how often I neglect to pray for Christians around the world." – Kevin Delano

To learn more about Pastor Delfils and RPC Haiti, or to connect, please contact richdelano@outlook.com or lindsays@fpcsat.org.

Watch videos of Pastor Delfils speaking at fpcsanantonio.org/delfils FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE 13

LOVING ONE ANOTHER

WOMEN OF THE CHURCH

WELCOME TO SPRING

BESTY ZACHRY

President, Women of the Church

W

hat a great time of year—with trees and flowers blooming— the promises of new life and hope found only in our Resurrected Lord are observed in so many ways as we begin to come out from under the shroud of a pandemic and the challenges associated with a week-long surge of winter weather.

Now we can focus on celebrating Easter, knowing that despite the difficulty faced by many during this past year, we probably cannot imagine—even in the most difficult of times—the complete loss of hope Jesus’ followers experienced as they laid His lifeless body in a tomb. They endured the three darkest days in mankind’s history.

Reflecting on what those three days must have meant to those early Christians, I realized how blessed I am to be surrounded by fellow Believers and to be a part of a Church family. We are meant to live in community and to share His love with others. For me, every opportunity to gather—in person—has brought great joy and the realization it is not to be taken for granted. Women of the Church

continues to carry on its programs trusting in God’s provisions.

We celebrated the Spring Luncheon with a wonderful speaker, Megan Legacy, of SA Hope Center. She is an inspirational speaker and an absolute delight to converse with.

Chef Maurilio and his staff did a fabulous job as always and Janie Jimenez and her industrious staff had everyone safely seated in Westminster. Thank you, too, Catherine Whitsett, for pulling together the beautiful Mexican churches (intended for Judy Kruger’s 2020 Spring Luncheon that sadly never happened) and adding her flair for fun to create beautiful tables. So many people worked hard to bring this together—Susan Dullnig, Ross Brown, Dorothy Hecimovich, Hank Cherry, and our wonderful reservationists, Meg Culp and Morgan Fuller!

We are looking forward to our Ladies Night Out-side on Tuesday, April 13th. With the success of last fall’s LNO format, Chair Nancy Scheifele and her committee have created a similar set-up with 10 -12 women enjoying the evening together outside on patios around

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LOVING ONE ANOTHER

the city. You will not want to miss the fun!

Interested in hosting or attending? Nancy may be reached at: 210-315-1618 or bbnn. scheifele@gmail.com.

Women of the Church will be honoring our wonderful Church pastors and staff on Wednesday, April 21st. Pat Stanley, Toni Legrand, Judith McNeel and Anne Scates will serve up food and fun. If you wish to support this opportunity to love on these special

people, please contact one of these ladies.

Looking ahead, we will be celebrating the passage of yet another year with the May Coffee with Barbara Wood and her committee hosting a fun morning in the backyard of Carolyn Johnson. Make sure to add Wednesday, May 5th to your calendar now!

God bless each one of you! Happy Easter!

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LOVING ONE ANOTHER

WOMEN OF THE CHURCH April Circle Schedule

Circle Number Circle 1/12

Circle Theme Bible Circle

Regular Meeting Info

Additional Info

Monday, April 12 | 10:30 AM FPC Geneva Room

Circle chairs will be in contact with details.

Circle 5

Shawl Ministry

Friday, April 16 | 10:00 AM FPC Room 228

Circle chairs will be in contact with details.

Circle 6

Bible Circle

Tuesday, April 20 | 1:30 PM FPC Geneva Room

Circle chairs will be in contact with details.

Circle 7

Bible Circle

Tuesday, April 13 | 11:30 AM

Circle chairs will be in contact with details.

Circle 8

Mom's Group

No formal meeting planned this month.

Circle 9

Bible Circle

Tuesday, April 20 | 10:30 AM

Circle chairs will be in contact with details.

Circle 11

Bible Circle

Monday, April 26 | 6:30 PM

Circle chairs will be in contact with details.

Circle 13

Literature Circle

Tuesday, April 13 | 1:30 PM Westminster Hall & fpcsanantonio.org/lit-circle

Circle 14

Bible Circle

Monday, April 12 | 12:00 PM FPC St. Andrew’s Room

Open to women & men; April Book: Daughter of a Daughter of a Queen, by Sarah Bird Circle chairs will be in contact with details.

Circle 18

Circle of Concern

No formal meetings: Opportunity for service throughout the year

Circle 20

Circle of Service

No formal meetings: Opportunity for service throughout the year

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LOVING ONE ANOTHER

REV. DR. JOE MOORE Minister for older adults and congregational care.

"H

e is not here; for he has risen, as he said." Easter is the celebration of Christ’s death and resurrection. It is the power and authority over sin and death. Thanks be to God!

It has been decided that we will continue to wear masks for Sunday Services for the next two months. Live streaming the 9:00 a.m. Traditional and the 11:02 a.m. Contemporary services will continue!

Looking forward to the day when we are all comfortable attending services together.

KEYS events coming in April; April 2nd

Join the Live Streaming of The Good Friday service at Noon

April 9th

To be determined

April 16th

Miles Pike, Soloist

April 23rd

David Walker as Jefferson Davis

April 30th

Ashraf Abdou with YWAM North Africa

If you have recommendations for KEYS speakers please don’t hesitate to email joem@fpcsat. org, text or call 802-734-2329.

been glowing. Someone said, "she does such a good job online, I can’t wait until we can continue in person."

We meet on Fridays at 11:00 AM Zoom meeting ID 570 618 8075 Link: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/5706188075

Topic: Friday Fitness Time: Fridays at 9:30 AM

No Password Necessary.

If you need help with Zoom feel free to contact me @ 802-7342329 or joem@fpcsat.org.

Join the Email Mailing List Receive a weekly email update on who is speaking and a link to connect directly to Zoom by sending me, Joe Moore ( joem@ fpcsat.org), your email address to be added to our list.

AARP Safe Driving Class If your AARP Safe Driving Class insurance discount is expiring, you can take the class online at www.aarpdriversafety.org.

Friday Fitness with Jacqi Crow We were fortunate to find Jacqueline Crow to conduct a Zoom fitness program for us. We received her contact information through Morningside Manor.

All reviews of Jacqi’s class have FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE 17

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6199 532743?pwd=aHRoaWNZdWtpM XJFa3dHSWVCYkl1UT09 Meeting ID: 619 953 2743 Passcode: Strength

Keeping EVERYONE Young in Spirit Remember, KEYS is not an exclusive club for older adults. Everyone is welcome to attend on Fridays and to join us in other activities as well, “Keeping EVERYONE Young in Spirit.”

LOVING CHRIST

FIRST CUP READINGS APRIL, 2021 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.

Blessings and love in Christ, Sandy Sturch

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 2 3 4

Mark 14:1-16 Mark 14:17-42; John 13 Mark 14:43-15:47 Matthew 16:21-28; 27:62-66; 28:11-15

I know that my Redeemer lives! What joy the blest assurance gives! He lives, He lives, who once was dead; He lives, my everlasting Head! He lives to bless me with His love; He lives, to plead for me above; He lives, my hungry soul to feed; He lives, to help in time of need. He lives, all glory to His name; He lives, my Savior, still the same; What joy, the blest assurance gives; I know that my Redeemer lives! (The Methodist Hymnal, #445) 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-35; John 20:1-23 John 20:24-31 John 21 Matthew 28:16-20; Acts 1:1-11; John 14 Psalm 109:1-8; Acts 1:12-26 Acts 2 Acts 3; Deuteronomy 19:15, 18-19; Romans 1:16

Holy Spirit, breathe on me until my heart is clean. Let sunshine fill its inmost part, with not a cloud between. Holy Spirit, breathe on me; my stubborn will subdue. Teach me in words of living flame what Christ would have me do. Holy Spirit, breathe on me; fill me with power divine. Kindle a flame of love and zeal within this heart of mine. Breathe on me, breathe on me, Holy Spirit, breathe on me. Take Thou my heart; cleanse every part.

Holy Spirit, breathe on me. (Worship in Song, #272) 12

Acts 4:1-5:11; Leviticus 19:11; John 8:44-45; Colossians 3:5-10 13 Acts 5:12-6:7; I Corinthians 12 14 Acts 6:8-8:3; Galatians 1:13, 23 15 Acts 8:4-40; Isaiah 56:4-8 16 Acts 9:1-31; Galatians 1:11-24 17 Acts 9:32-11:30; 1 Timothy 6:17-19; 2 Corinthians 9:6-11 18 Acts 12:1-14,28; 9:15-16; 2 Timothy 3; Job 36:15

And can it be that I should gain an interest in the Savior’s blood! Died He for me, who caused His pain? For me to Him to death pursued? Amazing love! How can it be that Thou, my God, should die for me? He left His Father’s throne above, so free, so infinite His grace! Emptied Himself of all but love, and bled for Adam’s helpless race. ”Tis mercy all, immense and free! For, O my God, it found out me. Amazing love! How can it be that Thou, my God should die for me? (Worship in Song, #221) 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Acts 15:1-35; Romans 1:1-6; 3:21-31 Acts 15:36-16:40; 2 Corinthians 11; Hebrews 10:32-39; 13:3; Revelation 2:10 Acts 17; 1 Thessalonians 2-3 Acts 18; Romans 16:3-5a; 1 Corinthians 16:20; 1 Peter 1:22 Acts 19; Exodus 34:10-17; Leviticus 19:4; Psalm 135 Acts 20; 2 Timothy 2:1-13; 4:1-5 Acts 21-23:11; Matthew 5:10-12; Psalm 119:153-160

“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 lin-g’ling 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) 26 27 28 29 30

Acts 23:12-24:27; Psalm 91 Acts 25-26; Psalm 7 Acts 27-28:10; Psalm 69 Acts 28:11-31; 2 Corinthians 11:21b-12:10; Romans 5:1-5; 2 Timothy 1:8-2:13 Colossians 1:1-14; John 3:16-21; 8:12; 12:44-46; Ephesians 5:8-20; Psalm 112

FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE 18

LOVING CHRIST

FIRST CUP PRAYER LIST

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).

Date

Name of Person

Request

FIRST PRESS MAGAZINE 19

God’s Answer

1846 - 2021

LOVING CHRIST. LOVING ONE ANOTHER. LOVING THE CITY. 404 N Alamo Street San Antonio, Texas 78205 210-226-0215 fpcsanantonio.org

@fpcsanantonio

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